Get
Digital Video Essentials and spend some time setting up the picture after you do an initial warm up/burn in with all the video settings (brightness, contrast, color, etc.) turned all the way down. If you spend the time with DVE you'll be very pleased with the way your picture looks. $20 at Amazon, well worth it.
I agree on the suggestion for an upconverting DVD player. Check techbargains.com for deals - they're often available for around $40-50.
Get a quality surge protector.
Scott
