monitor refresh rate:Optimal or a set refresh rate?

[MrT]

STB Velocity 4400
should I set my refresh rate at optimal or set it to a specific refresh rate...and which is better...low refresh rate or high??????

[Bleeding Edge]

High refresh rates are better. Running the monitor at the highest rate at any given resolution is ideal. Monitors and videocards each have their own refresh rates. If your monitor model properly appears in DisplayProperties/Monitor tab, selecting the Optimal setting under the Adapter tab would be the best choice. You do not want to choose a video refresh rate higher than the monitor can support.

Note:
1.Running at a refresh higher than the monitor supports can have adverse affects.
Over adjusting (making brighter) the contrast and brightness and leaving it there can distort the shadowmask or apeture grill behind the screen. This is true with TVs also.
2.Running the video card at its extreme ends (refresh/resolution) can result in visual distortions/anomolies. This usaully does not happen but with certain card/monitor combination you may notice this.