CoachKevin
Member
I guess I will pickup the bottom one tonight for $35 unless people know of a known issue with it.
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Best CRT TV for old school systems...?
- Thread starter Fernando Rocker
- Start date
CoachKevin
Member
stopped to see another tv, turns out they listed it wrong. turned out it was a 27 not a 32". This search is getting to be a lot harder than I thought it was.
ViperVisor
Member
CoachKevin
Member
Ya, video basically justifies the CRT for retro gaming. When I am back in Japan in a few weeks I will search out one of the XRGB-3s
CoachKevin
Member
So you should defiantly stay away from the HD tubes? There are a ton of them up on CL now. Sony XBR's, 32" 4:3 and 34" 16:9
ExitPlanetDust
Member
Honestly, I would stay away from them. I have had bad experiences with them in the past. It's really a game of roulette. Some of them will display a beautiful native SD image while others resort to upscaled garbage similar to LCD and Plasma sets. Even if it does display a native SD image, these sets are pretty complex and prone to failure. HD WEGAs can be repaired by just about anyone with a steady hand and soldering equipment, but the repair guides make my head spin.
Even if you do find an HD CRT with an outstanding picture, this doesn't guarantee it doesn't suffer from input lag... That would make the set worthless for classic gaming, IMO. I would compromise picture quality and versatility before I would deal with input lag.
Even if you do find an HD CRT with an outstanding picture, this doesn't guarantee it doesn't suffer from input lag... That would make the set worthless for classic gaming, IMO. I would compromise picture quality and versatility before I would deal with input lag.
If you're going to be playing 240p retro games then yes, stay away.
ExitPlanetDust
Member
I think some of the PS2 Slims had issues with when connected through component cables. The picture slowly turns green. Powering the system off and then on will fix the problem, but it will happen again. I'm not sure which model numbers are affected and I have no idea if Sony fixed the problem in later runs.
The original PS2 should be fine. Though I prefer S-Video with the PS2. The component output always looked over-saturated to me.
The original PS2 should be fine. Though I prefer S-Video with the PS2. The component output always looked over-saturated to me.
I currently use a SCPH 90000 unit manufactured in 2010, connected through Monster Component cables to a Sony Wega SDTV with no trouble whatsoever. Haven´t tried any other brand of cables. Love the little thing.
ExitPlanetDust
Member
That's good to know!
likedamaster
Member
Black trinitron here, not selling though. In perfect condition and picture is quite bright. 
Agent Unknown
Member
I have a 42 inch Hitachi 1080 plasma and play both my SNES and Saturn games on it through s-video, games on both look great IMHO. I'd maybe like to someday get a flat screen CRT for brighter color but those old Wega style TVs weigh a ton (which also means probably not being able to flip the screen in TATE mode) and I'm short on extra space right now.
My 40" XBR CRT rocks for old gaming. It's a behemoth, though, but its corner-of-the-room TV/stand design helps a little bit in that regard. If you can find some help to haul one, they're worth tracking down. Always see them for dirt-cheap on Craigslist. A steal for a TV that used to be over $2000.
CoachKevin
Member
Of course a bunch of 32" Trinitrons popped up this afternoon.
Found 2- 32FS120s. Picking up one tomorrow.
Found 2- 32FS120s. Picking up one tomorrow.
So guys...
I unfortunately don't own my old Super Famicom anymore, but I have quite a few SNES games on the Virtual Console. If I hooked up my Wii via RGB to a decent CRT, would the image be close enough?
Just want that retro feel spot-on. There's a great 4:3 Sony Triniton available for free nearby if I wanted to go this route.
I unfortunately don't own my old Super Famicom anymore, but I have quite a few SNES games on the Virtual Console. If I hooked up my Wii via RGB to a decent CRT, would the image be close enough?
Just want that retro feel spot-on. There's a great 4:3 Sony Triniton available for free nearby if I wanted to go this route.
I´d go for it, I´ve been playing Snes games on my actual system and through VC interchangeably, VC can output the same 240p image as an original Snes and of course looks great on SDTV via RGB. Just make sure that TV at least has S-Video inputs.
Is there a big difference between these two tvs? I am seeing a ton of the older model (top picture)
Would you just get the top one if it is a lot easier to find?
The top one is actually the newer set. These were manufactured in 2004 and were pretty much the last CRTs Sony had in stores. This is why you see so many more of them.
They are perfectly fine sets. Mine was the FS120, which is ever so slightly better than the (likely) FS100 you have pictured. They are good overall, with component and s-video inputs.
Make sure you have a DVD player to test the screen. You cannot correct convergence errors on these WEGAs. If there is significant convergence problems anywhere but the extreme corners, don't buy it. I always take a DVD player and my AVIA test DVD.
I spent my first evening with my FV310 tinkering with the geometry and I think I have it as perfect as I can get. There is a slight pincushion up along the top edge, but otherwise it is better than my old FS120, which had almost perfect geometry, but moderate convergence problem on the bottom left.
CoachKevin
Member
Just picked this one up.
Looking forward to setting it up when I get home from work.
Looking forward to setting it up when I get home from work.
ExitPlanetDust
Member
Congrats, Coach, it's beautiful.
CoachKevin
Member
Everyone is 100% right. The Wegas look awesome. here is my, "new" 32 inch
The Flash doesn't do the image justice:
The Flash doesn't do the image justice:
CoachKevin
Member
For people with Sony Wegas, specifically the FS120 models, do you use, "Clear Edge VM?"
With it turned on the image looks much sharper.
With it turned on the image looks much sharper.
ExitPlanetDust
Member
I used to leave it off and just manually adjusted the sharpness.
CoachKevin
Member
Good call. I turned it off. Played with the settings a little bit. Things are looking great.
Oddly enough I still have a faint vertical bar in the center of the image sometimes during dark scenes. Might be just be I need a clean power surge protector.
Everyone is 100% right. The Wegas look awesome. here is my, "new" 32 inch
The Flash doesn't do the image justice:
my childhood just slapped me across the face. that is awesome dude, i totally want to do something like this now
That's a common issue with the SNES.
ViperVisor
Member
That is a issue with all Super Nintendo systems. People with knowledge of electronics have done a lot of tinkering and some versions and configs lessen the appearance but it is always lurking.
How is your SNES connected?
I am gonna go do a screenshot of Metroid as close to the same as yours to see the difference between the 2.
My screen could of used a wipe down.
That feature actually makes dark lines on the screen thicker than intended, so I suggest leaving it off.
Don't waste your time. This is an inherent problem with all known models of SNES. Certain games, such as Super Metroid, will show it very clearly.
If you aren't already, I strongly suggest using an s-video cable. Also, that is a strange stand. It must be from an earlier model or not a Sony brand.
CoachKevin
Member
It is hooked up with S-Video.
I am actually moving tomorrow. Sunday night I should have my new game room setup.
I am actually moving tomorrow. Sunday night I should have my new game room setup.
Baller. PhD
Banned
I'm setting up a retro gaming room. This is an awesome thread.
On craigslist I have a few good deals located near me. I'm trying to decide between the FV27 and FS100, both 32". Anyone have any input on this?
EDIT: Nevermind, I think I'm gonna go with the FV27 since it has the 3d digital comb filter
. The guy selling it has both the remote and wireless headphones (!) for $25. I'm gonna go check it out.
On craigslist I have a few good deals located near me. I'm trying to decide between the FV27 and FS100, both 32". Anyone have any input on this?
EDIT: Nevermind, I think I'm gonna go with the FV27 since it has the 3d digital comb filter
...whatever the fuck that means
The FV27 is older than the FS100 by at least three years, if that matters to you. It may have significantly more use. Someone could have purchased the FS100 as late as 2006.
I wondered what the "3D" filter added so I did some research a while back. A regular digital filter processes each line by factoring in the lines above and below it in the current frame, aka "three-line comb filter". A 3D filter additionally factors in the same line for the frame of video before the current frame. Also note it is only enabled for lines of video with no movement.
In other words, given that video games are pretty much always moving and the video input is relatively clear compared to the source this is intended to benefit (RF broadcast), you would probably never notice the difference.
Baller. PhD
Banned
Interesting. Alright then, maybe I'll go with the FS100 in the FV27 doesn't work out. This TV will be used exclusively for SD gaming so it sounds like the 3D filter will be useless to me. I'm checking out the FV27 later today, but if the quality sucks then I'll go with the FS100.
Thanks a lot!
papersleeves
Member
I have the choice between a KV-32HF120 or a KV-32HS500. Which one should I grab? I know the HS is HD. Both are at the same price ($35).
CoachKevin
Member
If it is for pre 360/PS3/Wii gaming go with the SD one.
The HD tubes run into convergence issues and sometimes will try to upscale the picture from 240 to 480
I assume you mean the KV-32FS120.
The HS500 will convert all incoming signals into 1080i. Whether this is good for you or not depends on your taste. It will remove scanlines and use Sony's "DRC" to filter and upscale the image. Most people feel this ruins the image.
Some people say they prefer the filtered look on the HS. I have seen several positive comments for the HS500 in particular. My suggestion: unless you are planning to run 480p or HD sources into the set, get the FS120.
However, there is one more important factor to consider: inputs. The FS120 only has a single s-video and a single component, plus two composite. If you want multiple s-video or component, get the HS500. The HS500 has three s-video (one on the front) and two component. It also has a DVI input if you want to connect a PC.
This is my tv of choice for classic gaming. Badass tv!!
Sound quality on that is great, shame about it only having composite inputs. Still looks very good.
So a while ago, I got for free a 32 inch RCA TV - I'm not a tv guy, but I'm prepared to say it's not a great tv, or even a good one. Here's a link to the set: http://reviews.walmart.com/1336/481...tuner-32v434t-reviews/reviews.htm?sort=rating
But I have to say: SDTV can look pretty damn good. With the digital tuner, OTA broadcast television looks really good. I've got a Wii hooked up via component (only one set of inputs), and streaming Netflix to the tv looks pretty good to my eyes as well. Adjusting the picture settings also makes a real noticable difference (and makes me want to adjust the lighting in the living room - can't convince wife that the overhead ceiling light needs to go, because it's causing tons of glare on the tv and making the picture appear darker than it is).
I'm not a video guy, so I'm wondering - how much of the better picture I'm seeing is actual improvement, and how much is just me wanting it to be better b/c I took the time to get the right hook ups / want it to look better? Before this tv, I thought the HDTV > SDTV comparison was akin to comparing color to black & white. But now, I'm thinking, 720p, 1080p are still clearly better than 480i, but 480i done right can be pretty impressive.
But I have to say: SDTV can look pretty damn good. With the digital tuner, OTA broadcast television looks really good. I've got a Wii hooked up via component (only one set of inputs), and streaming Netflix to the tv looks pretty good to my eyes as well. Adjusting the picture settings also makes a real noticable difference (and makes me want to adjust the lighting in the living room - can't convince wife that the overhead ceiling light needs to go, because it's causing tons of glare on the tv and making the picture appear darker than it is).
I'm not a video guy, so I'm wondering - how much of the better picture I'm seeing is actual improvement, and how much is just me wanting it to be better b/c I took the time to get the right hook ups / want it to look better? Before this tv, I thought the HDTV > SDTV comparison was akin to comparing color to black & white. But now, I'm thinking, 720p, 1080p are still clearly better than 480i, but 480i done right can be pretty impressive.
You aren't just seeing things. It's widely accepted that CRTs are superior in image quality over current technology. CRT is inferior in some practical aspects, mainly the maximum screen size, but not in image quality.
I agree with you about overhead lights. I never use mine while using the TV. I suggest a halogen floor lamp in the corner of the room; the kind that shines on the ceiling.
I agree with you about overhead lights. I never use mine while using the TV. I suggest a halogen floor lamp in the corner of the room; the kind that shines on the ceiling.
Hmmm...that's not entirely true.
CRTs do have some real advantages but so do flat panels. You also forget that there were a lot of low quality CRTs manufactured. When talking about CRTs most people are dealing with some of the best models that were made. It's not exactly fair to pit a middling to poor quality LCD against a high-end CRT display.
CRTs handle motion and black levels very well, but they suffer from geometry issues, lower resolutions (at least in regards to tevelsions), lower brightness, and poor ANSI contrast ratio. They have trade-offs just like any other display.
You know, at the size its at combined with the comb filter, you don't really suffer from dot crawl. Its a soft, but clean image.
Well, dot crawl isn't usually an issue with 240p content but 480i is another story.
Its prevalent/apparent at any resolution so long as you use a composite connection. Its just a side effect of luminance and chrominance crosstalk (thanks to having all components run through a single connection).
Edit: Ah 'p'
Well that would mean a progressive image which means no composite....which doesn't have anything to do with that Gamer GX TV posted above (its composite only).
Not completely true. Dot crawl increases with higher frequency imagery. It can definitely be noticeable in 240p but a good comb filter can really clean up the image. With 480i, it's much more difficult to eliminate on even the best televisions.
Not true. Proper 240p output requires a standard definition display. Older game systems typically used this type of output.
To the first part, that's interesting to hear. You have a link to some information that explains why higher resolutions exhibit dot crawl more? Even still, what I said stands, regardless of its severity (though it becomes moot in the context of what I replied to).
To the second, I'm a little confused here.
These old consoles output a 240p (progressive) image. From what I understand, unless you have an expensive RGB adapter for, say, PC CRT, you have no choice BUT to use an old school sdtv that will interlace the original image.
So how is that a requirement for true 240p? Sounds more like a lack of choice than anything.
Edit: Unless you're saying, in order to get true 240p output, you'd need a display that can output standard definition resolutions - non interlaced.
If that's the case, again, this composite only GXtv won't give you true 240p. Its 240i
If that NOT the case, and you mean a display that can output at 240 - independent of interlacing....then how is it TRUE 240(p)?
BocoDragon
or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Realize This Assgrab is Delicious
I had a 27 inch Wega and I ditched it recently.. I always got "waves" shimmering over the screen, and it really ruined the appeal of SNES games. Does anyone else see this on their Wega?
This was the case in two different houses/cities, so it wasn't local conditions. I guess I could have tried a clean power bar or something..
Now I rock a 20 inch Toshiba flatscreen and it's perfect... but obviously smaller (not necessarily a problem for this level of gaming, though).
This was the case in two different houses/cities, so it wasn't local conditions. I guess I could have tried a clean power bar or something..
Now I rock a 20 inch Toshiba flatscreen and it's perfect... but obviously smaller (not necessarily a problem for this level of gaming, though).