I have a TV card in my system which direct draws onto the Trinitron, and I have to agree with you on the TV experience. I also see the sporadic contrast shift over extended periods. I've usually been able to get it back to normal, especially since NVidia have been including a ColourGraphic style setup system in their latest driver releases - exceptionally useful.
I find that a lot of TFT's not only are affected by viewing angles, but are also troubled by over saturated colours and lack adequate OSD controls to compensate. Especially cheaper ones.