6 votes

Why retro consoles need a scaler

1 comment

  1. Tuaam
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    Interestingly, the problems noted on consoles with scaling on televisions isn't too apparent with retro computers - and I think this is because we've had the same backwards compatibility for VGA...

    Interestingly, the problems noted on consoles with scaling on televisions isn't too apparent with retro computers - and I think this is because we've had the same backwards compatibility for VGA going back 30 years. Of course, for microcomputers this is an exception as they were built around the same idea of 'plugging a PC into a TV'. For older computers, you will get decent response times but the issue lies with scaling - but I mean, everyone has experienced setting a PC to lower resolutions to play games, and monitors tend to not blur it as badly.

    Personally I've gotten used to blurry LCD visuals so I can't really say much but the solutions are divided between using a scaler like retrotink, buying a 4:3 LCD which was owned by office spaces, or finding an older CRT. I have a CRT and an old dell LCD monitor, so I can't really say I'd drop 200 on a scaler for what is a small issue to me. Plus, alot of 4:3 LCDs have great scaling capabilities.

    There is also the Amiga Checkmate monitor but this is beyond budget, despite getting a cool monitor.

    2 votes