LCD image better outside viewing angle?

[Sohr]

I have a Dell 1901FP 19" LCD that I really love, but I've noticed something recently that seems kind of strange:

it's hard to make out details in dark images viewing straight on... however, I can see much more detail if I view the image at an wide angle-- either horizontally or vertically. In other words, it seems I can see more detail in my picture when I'm outside the normal "optimal" viewing angle!
The difference is such that I almost want to play my dark games (Unreal, Quake3, etc.) at a wide angle instead of directly i n front of the LCD.

Is this normal?

 

[Nebor]

You need to adjust your monitors settings then.

 

[tc17]

I've noticed this too on my new 17" LCD. But so far its rare when I see this problem. Funny thing is that my older 15" LCD does not have this problem despite the fact its much older and has much worse monitor stats/rating.

I've noticed it in the Aquamark3 3d benchmark with the underwater city. Normally in games I can adjust the gamma setting and it corrects any really dark spots... except for the Aquamark3 benchmark program which it seems to have no effect on. The latest 3dmark2003 also has this same problem.

If I view the game while standing above my monitor looking down, it suddenly becomes visible instead of solid black.

I tried the latest Unreal Tournament 2004 demo and haven't noticed the problem there. I haven't tried Quake, but maybe try adjusting the gamma setting if the game lets you.

So far I love my LCD and would never give it up for a CRT. The colors are so much brighter and sharper.