That is odd about runtime. As long as you point to the runtime folder when you configure the Poser set up in Vue preferences, it should work. I also use the newest compatibility version, when it asks. My runtime is not in the same folder as the program and everything has always worked. I run Vue 9.5 and have felt this is the stablest version yet, except for the Skin Vue issue, which is now resolved.

As far as your skies still washed out. I don't know. Maybe try some new atmosphere settings than what you used in version 8. The atmospherics in 9 are more like real life with haze and atmosphere density. Do you use spectral atmospheres mostly and what kind of lighting, GR or lower?

Other things can be Camera issues like having gamma correction on and auto exposure on. I usually have both of those off because they will affect the render. Hope maybe something here helps. AD