Question about "Instant On"

[old_tv_nut]

You actually do NOT want the set to be in instant on mode continuously. This was a convenience feature which unfortunately shortens the tube life by running it continuously (though at reduced power). Instant-On was superseded by solid state chassis with quick-heating cathode CRTs, which could produce a picture in about 12 seconds (instead of, say, 50 seconds for an older all-tube set).

I don't think there is any detrimental effect from powering your set from the switched outlet, and it prevents the "slow cooking" from degrading the CRT over time.