Just a quick update. I took my 9CD0 panel machine to the apple store, and they also noticed the uneven backlighting. They offered me a replacement machine, but couldn't guarantee that it'd have the LG/Philips 9CCE. I took my chances and took the exchange. Just got the machine home, booted it up, and to my relief this machine does have the gorgeous LG/Philips display. If you have the 9CD0 display and are not satisfied, I highly recommend returning it and getting a new one until you are satisfied.