factors to consider on a new monitor

[jcvmf214]

Hi all
I have just nailed down what I want in a mac pro
now I have to decide on a monitor

I would like to consider 24-30. right now I am leaning towards
Samsung and Dell monitors

the two dell monitors I like are

2707WFP 27-inch
Max Resolution: 1920 x 1200 / 60 Hz
Image Contrast Ratio: 1000:1
Response Time: 6 ms

UltraSharp 3008WFP 30-inch
Max Resolution: 2560 x 1600
Image Contrast Ratio: 3000:1 (dynamic)
Response Time: 8 ms



Samsung end
245BW 24"
Max Resolution: 1920 x 1200 / 60 Hz
Image Contrast Ratio: 1000:1 / 3000:1 (dynamic)



Samsung SyncMaster 305T 30
Max Resolution: 2560 x 1600 / 60 Hz
Image Contrast Ratio: 1000:1
Response Time: 6 ms
$1,279.99



These so far are my choices.
I will be using this monitor for gaming and movie watching foremost. I do edit pictures to make labels for dvds. and eventually would like to edit tv shows on the mac pro

so far I am leaning towards the dell 27" the 30" is way outside my price range
the samsung .. not thrilled about.

What should I look out for when viewing monitors?
which values are most important
contrast ratio... what does it mean when it says 1000-3000 to 1 dynamic
resolution. seems to be pretty standard

I know that for instance black levels are very important.

is there a major difference between a monitor that is 700:1, 1000:1 and 3000:1 dynamic ..




any ideas?