Hi,
I'm looking into purchasing a new monitor to replace my Acer AL1951 [19" 4:3]. I would like to replace it with a 24" monitor [have looked into larger such as 27" but have heard that the dot pitch makes it not worth going with larger size.] I need the monitor to be able to be calibrated well to give accurate colors but I would also like to use it for normal use such as watching movies, playing games [Team Fortress 2, Counter-Strike Source, Call of Duty 4, Unreal Tournament 3, etc.]. I have been looking at the Dell 2408 Ultrasharp monitor but have heard complaints of input lag, and color uniformity [as well as backlight issues]. Was wondering if these are true. I have seen NEC carries professional grade monitors and I was wondering if anyone here may be able to help me sort through the different NEC monitors or maybe give me some information regarding their performance in games. I'm looking to spend a maximum of $1,000 for the monitor. Though would greatly prefer less.

In terms of graphic design, I shall be doing digital photography editing, print designs, full 3D modeling, etc. using an array of programs such as Photoshop CS3, Lightroom, Maya, etc.

Also, how is the wide gamut going to have an effect on the appearance of the colors throughout windows [if the monitor is wide gamut of course]?

Thank you in advance for all of your help and suggestions

-R4z3r