N64 video output questions...

[jdchess]

First question is which output is actually better gaming wise, component video or RGB? I'm not totally sure I understand the difference. So, any help understanding this would be greatly appreciated. Am I right in that both of these are better than S-video?

Second, I have seen instructions on how to mod the N64 to output RGB. Has anyone done this and does it make a big difference?

Third, my TV does NOT have RGB input and I was wondering if it is possible to mod the 64 to output component video (even if the RGB is better, which I am hoping someone can explain more fully).

Fourth, if the RGB is better than component video, is it enough so to justify looking for a TV with RGB input? Thanks in advance for the help guys. x_x

[Mayhem]

Component is technically a digital output, where RGB is not. They are both roughly the same picture quality as each other, and both are better than S-video.

There is no way to get component from the N64, your best bet is RGB, and even then only earlyish N64 units (say first year or two) can be modded to output it (and PAL N64s can not at all).

If you want a decent picture on the N64, then go for S-video at least. If you have no RGB input device, then you are SooL, especially if you are in the US as I suspect. Here in Europe, I got my US N64 modded because I could use the RGB support.

So until component becomes more prevalent here in Europe (it's slowly getting there), we'll be using RGB. Which is useful anyways because a lot of older consoles support it as an "out".

[FABombjoy]

Component is technically a digital output, where RGB is not.

Component (color difference) is analog.

Component can be obtained from any RGB source (like an N64) with the use of an RGB->Component transcoder. However, RGB is preferable to component since most game systems output RGB natively, and the conversion to component represents an additional stage of electronics that can add noise & lower S/N. In practice, you probably won't notice the difference between RGB & component.

[jdchess]

How big is the difference between RGB and S-video?

[SkiDragon]

I reccomend S-video because it can be used on almost any modern TV of any size, and requires no modification. Plus, you can use the same cord on your SNES, Gamecube, and probably Revolution.

[dj898]

but you can use RGB with the transcoder to transcode into YUV in order to display on HDTV with its Component input...

[SkiDragon]

But it wont really be an HD signal, so that probably would not look much better than S-video. Ive never tried it personally because the only ways I have heard require very expensive equipment.

[dj898]

that setup will get you 480i signal and more clear than S-video though with N64 you can't really say clearer since it's so dame muddy to start with...

the transcoder can be had for around $110 for RGB->YUV...