Video Upscalers

Introduction

Video upscalers are devices that take video signals from old consoles, manipulate them, and output them via HDMI in higher resolutions, typically 1080p. These devices are designed to allow old consoles to be compatible with modern displays. While there are various upscalers available on the market, this article will discuss the ones that the author personally used and experienced.

Generic HD Video Converter

The generic HD video converter is a cheap and commonly available upscaler. It can be purchased for under $ 40 on Amazon. This device has inputs for composite, component, RGB SCART, and HDMI. The output is through HDMI with resolution options of 720p or 1080p. It is a basic upscaler that stretches the video to widescreen and treats 240p signals like 480i, resulting in some image quality issues such as softness and combing. The device also introduces latency, making it less suitable for gaming. Overall, it is a budget option that may suffice for basic video upscaling needs.

Framemeister

The Framemeister, also known as the XRGB Mini, is a popular and more expensive upscaler. It was introduced in 2011 and initially sold for $ 500, but the price dropped to around $ 300 as production increased. This device has inputs for HDMI, RGB, component, S-video, and composite, with output via HDMI. The Framemeister provides a range of options for customization through its English menu, including firmware updates and profile settings. It offers a four times integer-scaled output for 240p games, but it may introduce some flaws like video noise and image softness. The Framemeister also has noticeable lag and struggles with resolution switches. Despite these drawbacks, it remains a favored choice among enthusiasts.

Open Source Scan Converter (OSSC)

The OSSC is an open-source project that aims to provide line multiplication rather than strict upscaling. It was released in 2016 and offered by Video Game Perfection. The device features inputs for RGB SCART, component, VGA, and outputs via HDMI. It performs line quadrupling without active processing, making it a low-latency option. However, it requires tinkering with settings to achieve optimal image quality for different consoles and games. While it offers sharper image quality than the Framemeister, it may struggle with resolution switches and compatibility with certain TVs. Firmware updates, settings saving, and profiles management are supported through a microSD card slot.

GBSC AIO

The GBSC AIO (All-In-One) is a modified version of a cheap upscaler with Ram's custom firmware and additional hardware. It was released in late 2020 by Zero himself. It features inputs for RGB SCART, component, VGA, and outputs via HDMI, VGA, and component. The GBSC AIO provides a lag of less than one frame and offers various customization options through a web interface. It supports motion adaptive de-interlacing, fake scan lines, and audio input for different sources. While it may have limited availability, the GBSC AIO offers good performance at a mid-range price point.

RetroTINK 5X

The RetroTINK 5X, released in 2021, is a relatively new addition to the video upscaler market. It is designed by Mike Chi and brings high-quality image processing capabilities. The device accepts inputs from RGB SCART, component, S-video, and composite, and outputs via HDMI. The RetroTINK 5X offers various output resolutions, including perfect integer scales, and features motion adaptive de-interlacing. It also supports triple buffer mode for seamless resolution switches and includes a low pass filter to reduce interference. The device provides excellent image quality, similar to the OSSC, but with improved compatibility and ease of use.

Keywords

Video upscalers, generic HD video converter, Framemeister, XRGB Mini, Open Source Scan Converter, OSSC, GBSC AIO, RetroTINK 5X, image quality, resolution switches, motion adaptive de-interlacing, lag, customization, compatibility.

FAQ

Q: What is a video upscaler? A: A video upscaler is a device that takes video signals from old consoles, manipulates them, and outputs them in higher resolutions, primarily for compatibility with modern displays.

Q: How much do video upscalers cost? A: The price of video upscalers can vary significantly. Budget options can be found for under $ 40, while more advanced and feature-rich upscalers may cost over $ 300.

Q: Are video upscalers suitable for gaming? A: While some video upscalers may introduce noticeable lag, others offer low-latency options suitable for gaming. It is important to consider the specific device's features and compatibility with different consoles.

Q: Can video upscalers improve image quality? A: Yes, video upscalers aim to enhance image quality by scaling the video signals to higher resolutions. However, the quality may vary depending on the specific device and its processing capabilities.

Q: Can video upscalers handle resolution switches smoothly? A: Some video upscalers struggle with resolution switches, resulting in delays and potential image issues. However, more advanced upscalers, such as the RetroTINK 5X or Framemeister, offer features like triple buffering for seamless resolution switches.

Q: Do video upscalers work with all consoles? A: Video upscalers typically support a range of inputs common to older consoles, such as composite, component, or RGB SCART. However, it is essential to check the specific device's compatibility list to ensure it works with your console.