Check which metering mode you're using, too. Spot vs matrix vs center weighted can result in slightly different results depending upon the subject and relative tonal values of the scene.

The factory settings for contrast, saturation, and sharpening are fairly neutral and bland. You might want to experiment with changing those to fine tune them to your taste. The changes will only impact jpges, not raw files.

Garrett

stuff: D700, D300, AF-S 17-35 f/2.8, AF-S 24-120 f/4, AF-S 80-200 f/2.8, AF 85 f/1.8D, AF 180 f/2.8

and: Ai-S 20 f/3.5, Ai 28 f/2, Nikkor-O 35 f/2 Ai'd, Ai-S 50 f/1.8, Nikkor-K 105 f/2.5 Ai'd, Ai-S 75-150 f/3.5

This is my Nikonians gallery.