Eon has simply introduced they’ll be releasing a plug-and-play HDMI adapter subsequent month for the Nintendo 64. They declare it gained’t add lag and is utilizing S-Video to scale the sign to 480p.
S-Video is an fascinating selection, as it is going to present a clear sign with out any modifications wanted to the console; A real plug-and-play system, just like the GameCube merchandise they presently promote. Sadly, which means not all PAL consoles will work correctly, as some have points with their S-Video output. Perhaps they’ll think about releasing a PAL model sooner or later that’s primarily a composite-to-HDMI converter, however in the meanwhile, there’s a couple of extra necessary inquiries to ask:
– What chip are they utilizing for the conversion?
As we’ve seen with the RetroTINK2x, it’s attainable to discover a “linedoubling” chip that processes 240p appropriately (no flicker) and doesn’t add any measurable lag. On the opposite aspect of issues, we’ve seen what occurs with corporations like Pound and Hyperkin utilizing chips that add an incredible quantity of lag with a headache-inducing, filckery output as a result of processing 240p as 480i.
Based mostly on Eon’s earlier choices, I’d be keen to wager they did it proper and used the right {hardware}. With out seeing it myself, I can’t say for certain although.
– How is 480i processed?
Fairly a couple of N64 video games run in 480i, so it’s necessary to know the way this system will course of it. Does it implement a zero-lag “bob deinterlace”, or just move the sign via. Is there a selection? Will it work in any respect?
– Pressure Aid
One widespread situation I see with plug & play dongles, is they generally act like an “anchor”, placing strain on the console’s output connectors. Over the course of time, this might trigger harm and prematurely put on out your console. Based mostly on the images proven, that is NOT the case with this system! It appears to be like like they made the dongle in a means that it helps the console and relieves all strain added from the HDMI cable…supplied you place the N64 on a flat-surface in fact. I’d name this one an enormous win!
– Why $150?
That is the query I’m having the toughest time understanding. A RetroTINK2X, 3D printed case, PSU and a GOOD high quality S-Video cable are the identical value, provide the very same options…and can work with EVERY retro gaming console that outputs Composite, S-Video or Part Video. Why would somebody purchase a product for one system, once they can get the identical factor for all???
The one benefit I see to that is Eon’s advertising and marketing: Their earlier advertising and marketing technique uncovered their GCVideo gadgets to a crowd that loves them, however in all probability would have by no means heard about them, if not for Eon’s advertising and marketing! I might like to see the identical doorways opened for N64 followers worldwide, who’s solely earlier publicity to HDMI N64 has been the horrible options from the businesses I discussed earlier.
…however $150? That’s dearer than an UltraHDMI package, with 1/10th the options 🙁
Extra data & pre-order: https://castlemaniagames.com/collections/frontpage/merchandise/eon-super-64
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