Couple of issues

[Finzy]

I did read the OP, I just thought they might be worth trying regardless. Sorry if it was that "offensive" to just post a suggestion, my bad.

[smartstrike]

you should use the DirectX 10/11 renderer instead using SW mode this will avoid curbing-down the GPU especially you are using CPU based GPU.
config it on the gsdx settings.

Direct 10/11 fixes the red or white background when highlighted the deck leader.