Any way the screen contrast can be improved? The already gorgeous looking unit would look far more expensive if the dark portions of the display were darker. The screen looks washed out if the cover art is bright. Not sure if this is because of the LED backlight or if anything can be done at the software level through a firmware update?
The background image (album art diffused) can be turned off under settings. I do this myself for the same reason you mention. Am used to the darkness of oled screens. Settings / Display / Play Detail Theme