Yup, I ordered the entire set of these when they first came up for Preorder. They will be great for when I travel so I don't have to keep disconnecting my Framemeister setup all the time.
I have one for my Saturn and I love it! Picture quality could be a little better, but good enough! But what really sold me, was that the RAD2X is lag free, and it delivered big time on that field! I'm looking to get another one when I buy a 1 chip SNES or SFC
This is the best HDMI cable for sure - but a proper shielded RGB cable (like the part of the RAD2X with the Saturn cable) won't have pronounced audio hum at all.
Audio problems are mostly caused by the power supply and most often are the capacitors. Many companies often use low power capacitors and this makes them more susceptible to noise caused by electrical current and even using equipment that prevents such problems they cannot prevent it from happening. What the RAD2X does is use an excellent analog to digital converter, eliminating any noise caused by current.
They should of had that little usb jack opened and not blocking off the needed power source. Some Saturn owners having problems with the Rad2x, so to fix the problem you have to take it apart and remove some plastic and then connect a power source to it.
Wow, I am so hype for the future of HDMI plug & play that it can display 1080p without no additional hardwares. I have high hope it can be done next year around Dec. I hope. Also deal with game switching resolutions much better.
The noise you get when using RGB is only because the cables you've been using don't have good shielding on the audio lines. With good cables you won't have this problem.
The noise is present in the output jack too. Better cables reduce the amount you have to put up with, but the shielding needs to go inside the console. There's maybe passive filtering you can do in the cable to mitigate it at the cost of some audio fidelity, or an active filter on an ASIC that can get rid of just the video carrier interference. Maybe that's what's in this cable?
@Stop Buying China's Junk! I have a nice big Mitsubishi DLP that has both Component and HDMI connections, and I'm still trying to figure out which is the best cable to get for my Saturn, either the RAD2X-HDMI or the HD-Retrovision Component cable, and what pros and cons for either cable. And yes, I 100% agree, *Stop buying China's junk!*
I plan on getting one for the SNES and Genesis Model 1. I already own the RetroTINK2X line doubler and I hook component up to it and then goes into the hdmi port. It upscales to 480p, and if I am not mistaken that's what the Rad2X does for the SNES and Genesis. It would be less cables for me to worry about.
Super neat product. Thank you for the side by sides. On the Street Fighter comparison it seems the whites on the RAD2X seem to go a slight Egg-Shell white. Still, this is a flippin’ awesome solution.
I think that was more to do with the strage settings I was using on the capture card at the time. I'll be doing a follow up video on that later on to show the real colours.
@@RetroCore Gotcha. Looking forward to seeing more comparisons. I'm currently using a Level Hike HDMI adapter for the Saturn but I'm always on the prowl for the next best thing.
I use a CRT for my SEGA systems and other older systems via RGB or S-Video depending what uses what, S-Video for my Commodore 64, I understand what you mean with the humming noise I get that on my CRT and LCD, I have the choice of both on my desk (32inch LCD and 24inch CRT) I sit close so don't need any bigger. For a 4k TV/Monitor I think that devise is a good idea, but I have no need for it.
That's a bummer 🙁. I sold mine not long after because at the time they were in high demand and prices here in Japan were 3x the regular price. I listed it on the auctions at the base regular price and people went nuts bidding on it.
4:43 Which do I prefer? Honestly, neither! I'll never understand why anyone would want to line-double 480i or 576i content. In any interlaced video signal, you're not getting the full picture - literally. Whereas in progressive signals such as 240p, 288p and 480p, all the horizontal lines that make up the frames are displayed at once. So 25, 30, 50 or 60 frames per second are just that. In interlaced signals, the odd and even numbered lines are showed separately. So 30 frames per second is actually 60 half frames per second. Half as in half the lines that make up the frame. So by line-doubling 480i and 576i content, you're sacrificing half the resolution for the sake of creating a pesudo-progressive frame. Normal deinterlacing might add some slight latency, but the superior quality is worth it. If the RetroTINK 2X has the option of passing 480i and 576i through, why can't the RAD2X? Seems like a horrendous oversight.
Normal deinterlacing is garbage unless you use a Framemeister, and even that gives you 2-3 frames of lag on average. It's not even close to superior quality, 480i is just a gimped resolution on anything but a CRT. For HD setups, line doubling is the way to go (just beware of burn-in on OLED screens).
@@GorditoCrunch343 Rubbish. I've used inexpensive SCART scalers with the PS2, GameCube and Xbox for years, and the resulting deinterlaced and upscaled image is near indistinguishable from what the Framemeister produces. I've never had any issues with input lag, but that could say more about my reflexes. In any case, anyone who thinks bob deinterlacing looks superior to normal deinterlacing should get their eyes examined. You loose half the resolution and the image constantly flickering up and down is distracting.
The LPF is probably not supposed to smooth out the image, it doing so is just a side-effect, rather it's supposed to remove low frequency noise, the biggest of which is caused by the power supply being right under the video output path on a Saturn. (Fantastic design there, SEGA.) The RetroTINK thing is what stops me from buying one of these. I have the actual RetroTINK and it's well... crap. The audio clipping can be fixed I suppose with an inline volume control, but it also underflows its audio buffers leading to pops and buzzes and the fix is to keep resetting it until some internal timing nonsense lines up better. These days I just use it as an okay S-Video to HDMI convertor and bypass the audio entirely. Since the audio is hardwired into this cable that kinda makes me wary.
Not sure, my TV says its getting a 720p input signal. But the again, I just realised. I run this via a Framemeister so I can add scanlines. So maybe that's why.
I saw this the other day from a YoiuTuber Mark. This looks really cool. Thank you for sharing this as well. 8^) Maybe for future videos, how about some British Heavy Metal to start 2020 with a bang. 8^) Anthony..
No, I didn't. That's what's so strange. Actually, I've stopped using this now as it was causing issues with timing when played via a Framemeister. You see, I like my scanlines on older 2D stuff but this in conjunction with a Framemeister or OSSC boosts the time out signal more that using RGB.
yup that the prob of sega saturn Picture noise back when my classmate will lend me his Saturn or play on renting Shop back on the day i notice that ugly sound then slowy ps1 show up and forgot the Saturn now a dayz i play it on my Droid phone using Yaba Sanshiro emulator. and playing some the Saturn game that i didn't play back on the day.
Why does the image from the rad2x look warmer? It's very obvious on the comparison between sega rally. But you can see it in almost every side by side too
something to do with the colour setting on the video capture when inputting HDMI. I'll be filming a follow up video today to address some of the questions people have about this unit. I'll make sure the colour is fixed for that video.
Great video, man! Quick question, when connected via HDMI to my monitor (AW2518H) the picture is stretched and blurry. I cannot change it to 4:3 like I can on my 4k TV in the living room. I can in a OBS window however, but playing that way introduces a disgusting delay--even with my 4k capture card with loop through. Any suggestions? Am I stuck in 16:9 with no lag when on PC? Shame, my Dreamcast with the DC Digital mod outputs 4:3 in 1080p on the same monitor with no problems.
Oh, I haven't used this device in years as I ended up going for pure RGB and aRetrotink X5 Pro. Unless your monitor has a 4:3 option l, I don't think there's much you can do as I don't remember the RAD2X having a 4:3 switch on it.
0:48 YPbPr? Hold on 2:14 vs 2:35. Holy Crap It's YUV 444! RGB vs RB no Green. Though the buzzing noise is an issue playing Sonic Jam, but at the same time I have a CRT not a monitor. Aw crap even if the YUV 444 wasn't a deal breaker for me I don't have the equipment for it.
Didn't expect to see Hot Blooded Fighting Family in this video. Anyway. Does this require an additional power source or can it draw power directly from the Saturn? I rather hate having to hook up a separate AC adapter.
Rad2x HDMI looks brighter and more pleasing to my eyes. What I find strange is why convert rgb to ypbpr as HDMI accept both formats? I don't think it would cause any problems for tvs.
Is the last video of you 4K tv, just running through this device? Or is it going though something else? It looks great for the price if that's the case!
Interesting, thanks for highlighting. Would there be any benefit to using this if one already has a Framemeister (other than having to have a FM set up)? Thanks!
If you are using RGB via the Framemiester and have no issues with audio hum, then no. Stick with your current st up. I had that set up but got awful audio hum plus had to keep changing RGB cables. It's the main reason why I now use this but I also use it via the Framemeister for scanlines.
@@RetroCore I see, thank you very much with the response :) I think I'm gonna invest into the 2x scart since the footage from this thing that's equivalent looks as good as framemeister IMO and for way less the price to !
@5:07 Ah, Dead or Alive. The best port of the game to any console, the best game in that series, and the best poly-fighter I ever played on the Sega Saturn, period! I may have to get this device in the near-future! It's UK-only, or is there an American distributor?
While this is extremely nice for the price, a direct RGB signal sent to the Framemeister upscaled to full 1080p will of course look a bit better than what these cables can do, but right now the RAD2X is simply the best solution on the market for the price. This is something retro gamers sorely needed as til now there really wasn't a truly affordable HDMI option with good quality output.
Upscaled to 1080p looks crap with scanlines also, 720p is far better for a 4K screen to upscale as its a nice 4x clean upscale unlike changing 1080p to 4k. Of course a 1080p screen wouldn't have this issue.
@@RetroCore Right, I am aware of this and the fact that 720p is a direct 4x upscale to 4K. I am one person that is aware of these finer details. No need to get so defensive man, I just found the way the review was worded to be kind of strange as it really made it sound like you thought the console was outputting HDMI or something in the way you compared it to the RGB signal and were using it with the Framemeister. It definitely didn't sound like it was obvious to you that it was using RGB. It kind of sounded amateurish which I was very surprised by because I always knew you as more of a power user who knew these things which is why I was so surprised by it. Good to hear that you are indeed aware of how the RAD2X works. You are releasing video's to TH-cam though so it is actually kind of your job to explain these finer points to people don't you think? If you feel that it's their problem if they don't know any better then why make video's at all? Am willing to be that a lot of ppl watching these vids and looking at the RAD2X don't even know what RGB is.
Great video. Is there any difference between the rad2x and a framemeister ? Last but not least: I am still ready to buy your second 21 prologue ( hope you remember me ;-) )
Does It support 16:9 for the games that support widescreen? Or is it the same thing where you have to stretch the 4:3 image and then enable wide in the supported games?
@@RetroCore Well although it sucks we can't get a lot of stuff that was manufactured in China, that is a good thing for the world if we collectively stop using cheap chinese labor (and even worse -- slave labor which is common there)
I'm trying hardly to look the diference between antialiasing on and off... I have the N64's Rad2x and in this case the difference is bigger than in the Saturn's Rad2x.
Good sir You have just ruined my Sega Rally experience Now everytime I'd be powering my Sega Saturn I'd be hearing this title screen hum ! What should I do ? I guess I have to buy myself the RAD2X HDMI solution for my Sega Saturn !
@@RetroCore well to be fair this was very common in many games for Playstation and Saturn back in the day. So I eventually got used to it or never payed that much attention.
*personal opinion* Rgb has cleaner colours and better White's ... on that sf2a capture.. family blood look cool mind on 4k panel. Still rather my crt .. 😛
Te colours on the capture were wrong due to my cards settings. I'll be addressing that in a video I'll be filming today. Will publish it probably tomorrow.
READ THIS BEFORE YOU BUY IT: 1.the background noise is due to pour rgb cable (shielding). get the packapunch rgb cable from the same retailer and the noise is gone... 2. You also forgot to mention the jiggering due to bob deinterlacing (which is used by rad2x) for example when you paused DOA 3. BEWARE: bob deinterlacing can lead to burn-ins on some tvs as OLED. Google it: " bob deinterlacing burn-ins" Even the ossc manual mentioned it. 4. the small delay when the game is switching resolution (mentioned by you) 5. the much higher price comapred to rgb cable from same retailer (£23.99 - £47.99) ..and also the output quality is not better compared to rgb cable. So as you can see you have many disadvantages using rad2x with the saturn. The only two reasons to buy it would be: 1. You don't have scart input on your tv (but beware of possible burns-ins on your tv!) 2. LPF filter
The jiddering on Dead or Alive is present on all hi-rez Saturn games even with RGB. It's a interlaced signal. Even back in 1995 I noticed this on a CRT using RGB. Nothing to do with the Radx.
I've heard about this from RetroRGB. Also Dead Or Alive 2 isn't on Sega Saturn. And it's been 21 years since the Playstation Version of Dead Or Alive and 23 since the Arcade Version.
Uh... am kind of surprised that you didn't point out that it IS RGB when talking about whether to give up RGB or not. You are aware that this device is converting the direct RGB signal to HDMI and linedoubling it right? So technically this IS using RGB, yet you talked about it as if it isn't. This cable is using the exact same signal that your RGB setup is, so that hum you're getting is clearly something going on with your RGB cables or something else within your setup. Am very surprised you didn't know this... I thought you were more of a power user than that.
It's obvious that it is RGB. Why on earth would a device that connects to HDMI feed in a composite or S-Video signal? That's just dumb. This is why I see no need to mention its RGB. And it's also obvious it's not a digital input in to the Radx because the Saturn outputs an analogue signal. If someone doesn't understand the obvious then that's their problem. I mean, people expect every tinny detail to be explained to them these days rather than doing basic research.
@@RetroCore Well actually, most HDMI adapters up to this point actually did use Composite or S-Video, so yeah, my point was quite valid. And yes I completely agree that it is dumb as hell as those cables are utter crap. You are probably aware of all the other crappy HDMI adapters on the market, so why would you act as if they don't exist with your comment? Thus it is not cut and dry for everyone to assume that these use RGB.
What is REALLY surprising is that we still get people, in this community, just randomly barging in with zero manners and a very argumentative attitude, pointing out topics that could be actually interesting and worth discussing, only getting (understandably so) tons of dislike and little else. Mark is providing you and all of us watching a service, so I believe showing some respect is due and deserved.
@@Galdelico I'm not sure I understood most of that. What is it that you're trying to say? If you're saying that I'm barging in with zero manners and are being argumentative, I should mention that I've been a fan of Retro Core for years now and comment on nearly every video I watch of his, usually with very positive feedback. This time was one of the only times I ever found fault with one of his video's. I don't sugarcoat shit. Just like in real life, I tell it like it is. Some ppl don't like that, but oh well, that's who I am. Tough rocks I guess.
@@skins4thewin You fully understood that, yeah, it's exactly what I was trying to say. My bad then, I never really noticed your comments before, whereas your streak here is literally all over the place. :D Dunno about the last bits... To me personally, people like you don't really come out as cool 'tough-as-rock' guys, but hey... Peace out. ^_-
"This looks cool, I've a lot more HDMI ports on my TV than SCART ones....£47.99 Oh hell no! And that's the sale price?" A background hum that I've never heard from my TVs since I've owned the Saturn from launch and couldn't hear in your video. And to get rid of something I can't hear, I should pay £47.99? Now I have to admit I do see a slight quality improvement but it isn't £47.99 worth of improvement. I'd love a HDMI cable for my Saturn but I'll be damned if I'd pay damn near 50 quid for one.
Wait a sec... the RAD2X can't do 720p nor scanlines. I assume you meant to say that you're running the RAD2X to your Framemeister upscaling to 720p with scanlines added. You really can't forget to mention those things as ppl are going to be misled and think that the RAD2X can do 720p and scanlines when it can't. Again, it is completely pointless to do this. If you have a Framemeister then it is truly redundant to run a RAD2X to it, and I really don't understand why anyone would do such a thing. If a direct RGB signal from RGB SCART to your Framemeister doesn't look as good, then you likely have an issue with your RGB SCART cable, probably a cheaper insufficient or incorrectly made cable.
Why on earth would you run this thru the Framemeister when this is simply using RGB anyway? That would be literally pointless. If you actually have a Framemeister then you'd clearly be better off just inputting RGB directly into the Framemeister via a quality RGB SCART cable and letting it do the upscaling. You'll get a better overall picture doing this. Seems to me you are inexplicably unaware that the RAD2X is using the RGB signal. How did you not know this? What signal exactly did you think it was using? Composite? Clearly it would not look as good as it does if it were linedoubling from Composite. This is a very disappointing review due to the misunderstanding of the way the RAD2X itself works. I thought you would be more than knowledgeable about the different types of video that retro consoles output via their DIN sockets, enough to understand what type of video signal these RAD2X cables are likely using. I do dig the split screen comparison though, that was pretty nice and helpful for determining the quality of the conversion/linedoubling. The RAD2X is most definitely a quality device that does things properly.
Of course I know it is using RGB. That's obvious. I shouldn't have to point that out. It's not pointless in me using this either. If you listen to my comment you'll hear that this offers much better audio that a standard RGB cable. Image quality it also slightly better due to the AA. I only use the Framemeister to add scan lines. That's it. I fully understand how this works. I only use it for two reasons. One, better audio than my RGB cables and two, I have spare hdmi ports while I'm always in need of extra RGB ports.
@@RetroCore It can't possibly offer better audio as it's using the exact same audio output as your RGB cables do. It's like I said, you are likely having interference in your RGB SCART cable that you use for RGB, as the audio should literally be identical. It's using the exact same audio pinouts, so why would the audio be any different? It isn't being processed any differently than your Framemeister would. I would recommend trying the fully shielded Packapunch cables that retro gaming cables uk sells, as that might elimintate your audio hum.
@@RetroCore Am just pointing out that it's totally redundant to use the RAD2X in combination with the Framemeister as you're adding an extra converter into the chain without any added benefit. You will get better results connecting RGB directly to the Framemeister if you're using a quality RGB SCART cable. I myself and others have had problems with the Retro Access cables, which I believe I've heard you mention that you use those. I would definitely recommend switching over to retro gaming cables uk and their line of RGB SCART cables. I myself made that same switch over from Retro Access cables (back when they were known as retroconsoleaccessories) and couldn't be happier.
@@RetroCore Even if it does, it still means that your RGB cables are likely causing the hum. You're probably getting crosstalk between the signal lines inside the cable. The Saturn's audio output doesn't normally have that much noise.
*me at the opticians*
Optician: Now, which one do you prefare, low pass filter on, or low pass filter off
*Confused screaming*
@@jamesstewart7784 i would say Filter off for 2d games and Filter on for 3d games
please add side by side for these. My poor eyes cant tell the difference. Great video dude!
Beautiful..... ordered like i just watched QVC
If this just had a scanline option like the OSSC it would be perfect
Yup, I ordered the entire set of these when they first came up for Preorder. They will be great for when I travel so I don't have to keep disconnecting my Framemeister setup all the time.
I have one for my Saturn and I love it! Picture quality could be a little better, but good enough! But what really sold me, was that the RAD2X is lag free, and it delivered big time on that field! I'm looking to get another one when I buy a 1 chip SNES or SFC
I have one each for my Saturn and CDX. 😀
Very nifty device, but I still enjoy playing my Saturn via S-video on my CRT. :)
Crt or Gtfo lol .... ps3 and up is hdmi alltheway
This is the best HDMI cable for sure - but a proper shielded RGB cable (like the part of the RAD2X with the Saturn cable) won't have pronounced audio hum at all.
I would have thought so but even a Retro RGB CABLE still gave my hum.
Audio problems are mostly caused by the power supply and most often are the capacitors. Many companies often use low power capacitors and this makes them more susceptible to noise caused by electrical current and even using equipment that prevents such problems they cannot prevent it from happening. What the RAD2X does is use an excellent analog to digital converter, eliminating any noise caused by current.
They should of had that little usb jack opened and not blocking off the needed power source. Some Saturn owners having problems with the Rad2x, so to fix the problem you have to take it apart and remove some plastic and then connect a power source to it.
I'd be grabbing this for sure if I had a SEGA Saturn.
Another informative video... if I had a Saturn, i'd definitely get this... there is a big difference in using HDMI
Wow, I am so hype for the future of HDMI plug & play that it can display 1080p without no additional hardwares. I have high hope it can be done next year around Dec. I hope. Also deal with game switching resolutions much better.
I know it's pretty randomly asking but does anyone know a good website to watch newly released movies online?
@Jaxxon Johnathan Flixportal :)
@Eric Ibrahim thank you, I went there and it seems to work :D Appreciate it !!
@Jaxxon Johnathan Glad I could help =)
I just picked up another Saturn on eBay a few days ago. Rebuilding.y collection, might have to purchase one of these.
The noise you get when using RGB is only because the cables you've been using don't have good shielding on the audio lines. With good cables you won't have this problem.
The noise is present in the output jack too. Better cables reduce the amount you have to put up with, but the shielding needs to go inside the console. There's maybe passive filtering you can do in the cable to mitigate it at the cost of some audio fidelity, or an active filter on an ASIC that can get rid of just the video carrier interference. Maybe that's what's in this cable?
@Stop Buying China's Junk! I have a nice big Mitsubishi DLP that has both Component and HDMI connections, and I'm still trying to figure out which is the best cable to get for my Saturn, either the RAD2X-HDMI or the HD-Retrovision Component cable, and what pros and cons for either cable.
And yes, I 100% agree, *Stop buying China's junk!*
cool. can't wait to buy one for my saturn.
Great review mate.
Really nice piece of kit.
I plan on getting one for the SNES and Genesis Model 1. I already own the RetroTINK2X line doubler and I hook component up to it and then goes into the hdmi port. It upscales to 480p, and if I am not mistaken that's what the Rad2X does for the SNES and Genesis. It would be less cables for me to worry about.
I run my Saturn through a Scart to HDMI converter and it looks awesome.
Super neat product. Thank you for the side by sides. On the Street Fighter comparison it seems the whites on the RAD2X seem to go a slight Egg-Shell white. Still, this is a flippin’ awesome solution.
I think that was more to do with the strage settings I was using on the capture card at the time. I'll be doing a follow up video on that later on to show the real colours.
@@RetroCore Gotcha. Looking forward to seeing more comparisons. I'm currently using a Level Hike HDMI adapter for the Saturn but I'm always on the prowl for the next best thing.
I use a CRT for my SEGA systems and other older systems via RGB or S-Video depending what uses what, S-Video for my Commodore 64, I understand what you mean with the humming noise I get that on my CRT and LCD, I have the choice of both on my desk (32inch LCD and 24inch CRT) I sit close so don't need any bigger. For a 4k TV/Monitor I think that devise is a good idea, but I have no need for it.
I waited a year for mine, was happy when I had it. It stopped working less than a year later. Back to regular A/V for me.
That's a bummer 🙁. I sold mine not long after because at the time they were in high demand and prices here in Japan were 3x the regular price. I listed it on the auctions at the base regular price and people went nuts bidding on it.
I hope there are enough real hardware enthusiasts to support neat little devices like these.
4:43 Which do I prefer? Honestly, neither! I'll never understand why anyone would want to line-double 480i or 576i content. In any interlaced video signal, you're not getting the full picture - literally. Whereas in progressive signals such as 240p, 288p and 480p, all the horizontal lines that make up the frames are displayed at once. So 25, 30, 50 or 60 frames per second are just that. In interlaced signals, the odd and even numbered lines are showed separately. So 30 frames per second is actually 60 half frames per second. Half as in half the lines that make up the frame. So by line-doubling 480i and 576i content, you're sacrificing half the resolution for the sake of creating a pesudo-progressive frame. Normal deinterlacing might add some slight latency, but the superior quality is worth it. If the RetroTINK 2X has the option of passing 480i and 576i through, why can't the RAD2X? Seems like a horrendous oversight.
Normal deinterlacing is garbage unless you use a Framemeister, and even that gives you 2-3 frames of lag on average. It's not even close to superior quality, 480i is just a gimped resolution on anything but a CRT. For HD setups, line doubling is the way to go (just beware of burn-in on OLED screens).
@@GorditoCrunch343 Rubbish. I've used inexpensive SCART scalers with the PS2, GameCube and Xbox for years, and the resulting deinterlaced and upscaled image is near indistinguishable from what the Framemeister produces. I've never had any issues with input lag, but that could say more about my reflexes. In any case, anyone who thinks bob deinterlacing looks superior to normal deinterlacing should get their eyes examined. You loose half the resolution and the image constantly flickering up and down is distracting.
Wishing you and your love ones a Happy New Year Mark. Keep up the great work and see you in 2020! 8^)
Anthony..
Thanks, Anthony and a Happy New Year to you too!
The LPF is probably not supposed to smooth out the image, it doing so is just a side-effect, rather it's supposed to remove low frequency noise, the biggest of which is caused by the power supply being right under the video output path on a Saturn. (Fantastic design there, SEGA.) The RetroTINK thing is what stops me from buying one of these. I have the actual RetroTINK and it's well... crap. The audio clipping can be fixed I suppose with an inline volume control, but it also underflows its audio buffers leading to pops and buzzes and the fix is to keep resetting it until some internal timing nonsense lines up better. These days I just use it as an okay S-Video to HDMI convertor and bypass the audio entirely. Since the audio is hardwired into this cable that kinda makes me wary.
I think they must have fixed the audio issue as it sounds great on this little box. Only reason why I use it over RGB.
5:56 .. Where mah dithering go?!
I know. Isn't it strange how that is missing. I have a feeling the box has a AA feature that's always on.
@@RetroCore I can't say that it's the worst feature, but it's a decision that (IMO) should be optional, not forced.
@@ugzz - Agree.
You mention the device outputting 720p on your 4K panel - are you sure it's not outputting 480p like other Retrotink2X products?
Not sure, my TV says its getting a 720p input signal. But the again, I just realised. I run this via a Framemeister so I can add scanlines. So maybe that's why.
Which game is that beat em up at the end? Looks fun. You had to use framemeister to add scanlines? Nice video BTW
it's called Nekketsu Oyako
I saw this the other day from a YoiuTuber Mark. This looks really cool. Thank you for sharing this as well. 8^)
Maybe for future videos, how about some British Heavy Metal to start 2020 with a bang. 8^)
Anthony..
No dithering in the RAD2X? ( Have you got the smoothing filter on for the comparisons between RGB and Component? )
No, I didn't. That's what's so strange. Actually, I've stopped using this now as it was causing issues with timing when played via a Framemeister. You see, I like my scanlines on older 2D stuff but this in conjunction with a Framemeister or OSSC boosts the time out signal more that using RGB.
Found out about this too late... been waiting for months for it to restock 😪
Useful indeed but I've got my ossc which works just fine for my Saturn.
Its a good alternative for people without an OSSC.
@@shivasthong4924 Indeed and its a bit more clean and its cheap.
yup that the prob of sega saturn Picture noise back when my classmate will lend me his Saturn or play on renting Shop back on the day i notice that ugly sound then slowy ps1 show up and forgot the Saturn now a dayz i play it on my Droid phone using Yaba Sanshiro emulator. and playing some the Saturn game that i didn't play back on the day.
That's the only issue I ever had with Tey system. The horrid picture noise. Glad that can now be addressed.
Why does the image from the rad2x look warmer? It's very obvious on the comparison between sega rally. But you can see it in almost every side by side too
something to do with the colour setting on the video capture when inputting HDMI. I'll be filming a follow up video today to address some of the questions people have about this unit. I'll make sure the colour is fixed for that video.
@@RetroCore I assumed that would be the case, but always good to have it confirmed. Thanks 👍
Great video, man! Quick question, when connected via HDMI to my monitor (AW2518H) the picture is stretched and blurry. I cannot change it to 4:3 like I can on my 4k TV in the living room. I can in a OBS window however, but playing that way introduces a disgusting delay--even with my 4k capture card with loop through. Any suggestions? Am I stuck in 16:9 with no lag when on PC? Shame, my Dreamcast with the DC Digital mod outputs 4:3 in 1080p on the same monitor with no problems.
Oh, I haven't used this device in years as I ended up going for pure RGB and aRetrotink X5 Pro.
Unless your monitor has a 4:3 option l, I don't think there's much you can do as I don't remember the RAD2X having a 4:3 switch on it.
0:48 YPbPr? Hold on 2:14 vs 2:35. Holy Crap It's YUV 444! RGB vs RB no Green. Though the buzzing noise is an issue playing Sonic Jam, but at the same time I have a CRT not a monitor. Aw crap even if the YUV 444 wasn't a deal breaker for me I don't have the equipment for it.
Didn't expect to see Hot Blooded Fighting Family in this video.
Anyway. Does this require an additional power source or can it draw power directly from the Saturn? I rather hate having to hook up a separate AC adapter.
No extra power source needed. It can get all the power it needs direct from the Saturn.
@@RetroCore Ooh, color me interested!
Rad2x HDMI looks brighter and more pleasing to my eyes. What I find strange is why convert rgb to ypbpr as HDMI accept both formats? I don't think it would cause any problems for tvs.
I'm not sure. Maybe something to do with hdmi compatability over a wide range of screens?
@@RetroCore Yeah I think that too
Is the last video of you 4K tv, just running through this device? Or is it going though something else? It looks great for the price if that's the case!
It's just running through this device.
@@RetroCore Going to grab this then!
What game was that at the end around the 7:45 mark? Great review by the way. Thank you for all of your videos and hard work.
It's called Nekketsu Oyako by Technosoft. 👍
Thank you amigo!
Interesting, thanks for highlighting. Would there be any benefit to using this if one already has a Framemeister (other than having to have a FM set up)? Thanks!
If you are using RGB via the Framemiester and have no issues with audio hum, then no. Stick with your current st up. I had that set up but got awful audio hum plus had to keep changing RGB cables. It's the main reason why I now use this but I also use it via the Framemeister for scanlines.
Odd that the PSX version of this needs an external power supp,y but this Saturn on does not!
I guess the PlayStation just has a weaker power out on its AV port?
@@RetroCore Because Saturn cable carry 5v signal but PSX cable can not carry 5v signal.
do you think retrotink 2x scart will be simillar in terms of picture quality with this ?
It will be as long as it is outputting the RGB signal it receives.
@@RetroCore I see, thank you very much with the response :) I think I'm gonna invest into the 2x scart since the footage from this thing that's equivalent looks as good as framemeister IMO and for way less the price to !
I don't need my RetroTINK-2X anymore! *Sets it on fire, starts dancing* I AM SO SMART! I AM SO SMART! S.M.R.T., I MEAN, S.M.A.R.T.!
Lol why did you figure out something we dk?
Not bad price. 👍
Doesn't the shielding fix the noise? At least on good quality scarts?
It should do.
does anyone know if this is coming back? it says not availabel on the sight
So these cables can output quality equivalent to scart or component ?
Yes, that's what they are claiming and it seems to be that way when I tried them. These aren't the same as those awful pound or hyperkin cables
Can’t wait to they make a ps2 one
There is one for PS2, it's the same one for PS1.
@5:07
Ah, Dead or Alive.
The best port of the game to any console, the best game in that series, and the best poly-fighter I ever played on the Sega Saturn, period!
I may have to get this device in the near-future!
It's UK-only, or is there an American distributor?
I live in japan so you should be able to get one sent to the US too. I bought mine from the UK store.
While this is extremely nice for the price, a direct RGB signal sent to the Framemeister upscaled to full 1080p will of course look a bit better than what these cables can do, but right now the RAD2X is simply the best solution on the market for the price. This is something retro gamers sorely needed as til now there really wasn't a truly affordable HDMI option with good quality output.
Upscaled to 1080p looks crap with scanlines also, 720p is far better for a 4K screen to upscale as its a nice 4x clean upscale unlike changing 1080p to 4k. Of course a 1080p screen wouldn't have this issue.
@@RetroCore Right, I am aware of this and the fact that 720p is a direct 4x upscale to 4K. I am one person that is aware of these finer details. No need to get so defensive man, I just found the way the review was worded to be kind of strange as it really made it sound like you thought the console was outputting HDMI or something in the way you compared it to the RGB signal and were using it with the Framemeister. It definitely didn't sound like it was obvious to you that it was using RGB.
It kind of sounded amateurish which I was very surprised by because I always knew you as more of a power user who knew these things which is why I was so surprised by it. Good to hear that you are indeed aware of how the RAD2X works. You are releasing video's to TH-cam though so it is actually kind of your job to explain these finer points to people don't you think? If you feel that it's their problem if they don't know any better then why make video's at all? Am willing to be that a lot of ppl watching these vids and looking at the RAD2X don't even know what RGB is.
Great video. Is there any difference between the rad2x and a framemeister ?
Last but not least: I am still ready to buy your second 21 prologue ( hope you remember me ;-) )
They're 2 different things. The Framemeister is far more veritile.
Sorry man, those super 21s are not for sale.
Retro Core thanks for your quick answer. If you change your mind about the super prologue, don’t hesitate to contact me ( even in 5 years lol).
It looks amazing, one question what is the name of that last game of look really good especially the music
That is Nekketsu Oyako :)
Does It support 16:9 for the games that support widescreen? Or is it the same thing where you have to stretch the 4:3 image and then enable wide in the supported games?
Sure, of course it does.
Retro Core awesome! I will Definitely look into getting this device.
Does it work with Japanese Saturns?
BTW, the Noise you hear might be your house's problem or some other electronic you use with your Saturn.
Of course. I live in Japan and have only Japanese consoles 😋. It will work with any type of Saturn.
Retro Core Amazing. I want to play my Saturn but it looks like crap 🤣
I really wish I could get one of these but it seems like they don't make them anymore already :(
I should do. It's not an old product. Maybe it's just out of stock?
@@RetroCore Google around for yourself, they are gone from the shelves. I read a comment somewhere saying it's because of the pandemic i guess
Hmm, I guess that's the reason for most issues these days 😢.
@@RetroCore Well although it sucks we can't get a lot of stuff that was manufactured in China, that is a good thing for the world if we collectively stop using cheap chinese labor (and even worse -- slave labor which is common there)
Wait did you plug the RAD2X through your Framemeister or directly to your TV...?
For this review, direct but when I used scanlines then it was via the Framemeister.
I'm trying hardly to look the diference between antialiasing on and off... I have the N64's Rad2x and in this case the difference is bigger than in the Saturn's Rad2x.
I guess because the Saturn doesn't really need it.
Wait... Anti-Analysing?
Yes, the cable has forced AA plus the shitty smoothing option. Thankfully the smoothing option can be switched off.
Is the rad2x better than the ossc and RetroTink for the Saturn
Nope. Less options.
Retro Core thanks mate. Think i should wait for the ossc pro?
That looks an awesome cable! Might have to get one myself. P. S. Could you please tell me the name of that game you played on your tv at the end?
It's called Nekketsu Oyako by Technosoft.
@@RetroCore Thanks very much!
0:37 "anti Analysing" you say ... Aliasing you mean.
Yes, you are correct.
Good sir
You have just ruined my Sega Rally experience
Now everytime I'd be powering my Sega Saturn I'd be hearing this title screen hum !
What should I do ?
I guess I have to buy myself the RAD2X HDMI solution for my Sega Saturn !
Ah, so you hear that sound too?
@@RetroCore well to be fair this was very common in many games for Playstation and Saturn back in the day. So I eventually got used to it or never payed that much attention.
*personal opinion*
Rgb has cleaner colours and better White's ... on that sf2a capture.. family blood look cool mind on 4k panel.
Still rather my crt .. 😛
Te colours on the capture were wrong due to my cards settings. I'll be addressing that in a video I'll be filming today. Will publish it probably tomorrow.
What shooter is that after SFZ2?
Batsugn
Batsugun
RGB rules
Yep, I've been using it since 2014 and it's great!
It gets rid of the buzz? Seriously? Sold.
Main reason why I use it.
So does a fully shielded scart cable.
READ THIS BEFORE YOU BUY IT:
1.the background noise is due to pour rgb cable (shielding). get the packapunch rgb cable from the same retailer and the noise is gone...
2. You also forgot to mention the jiggering due to bob deinterlacing (which is used by rad2x) for example when you paused DOA
3. BEWARE: bob deinterlacing can lead to burn-ins on some tvs as OLED. Google it: " bob deinterlacing burn-ins" Even the ossc manual mentioned it.
4. the small delay when the game is switching resolution (mentioned by you)
5. the much higher price comapred to rgb cable from same retailer (£23.99 - £47.99)
..and also the output quality is not better compared to rgb cable. So as you can see you have many disadvantages using rad2x with the saturn. The only two reasons to buy it would be:
1. You don't have scart input on your tv (but beware of possible burns-ins on your tv!)
2. LPF filter
The jiddering on Dead or Alive is present on all hi-rez Saturn games even with RGB. It's a interlaced signal. Even back in 1995 I noticed this on a CRT using RGB. Nothing to do with the Radx.
Don't forget to put down RETRO10 for a 10% discount coupon!!!
Never knew about that :(
filter on awails
I've heard about this from RetroRGB.
Also Dead Or Alive 2 isn't on Sega Saturn.
And it's been 21 years since the Playstation Version of Dead Or Alive and 23 since the Arcade Version.
I know dead or alive 2 isnt on the Saturn? Did I say that in this video? If I did, that was a mistake on my part.
@@RetroCore You definitely did when you talked about it.
the only way for retrogame its rgb and crt screen!
hdmi mini and micro usb terrible the worst connectors
Uh... am kind of surprised that you didn't point out that it IS RGB when talking about whether to give up RGB or not. You are aware that this device is converting the direct RGB signal to HDMI and linedoubling it right? So technically this IS using RGB, yet you talked about it as if it isn't. This cable is using the exact same signal that your RGB setup is, so that hum you're getting is clearly something going on with your RGB cables or something else within your setup. Am very surprised you didn't know this... I thought you were more of a power user than that.
It's obvious that it is RGB. Why on earth would a device that connects to HDMI feed in a composite or S-Video signal? That's just dumb. This is why I see no need to mention its RGB. And it's also obvious it's not a digital input in to the Radx because the Saturn outputs an analogue signal.
If someone doesn't understand the obvious then that's their problem. I mean, people expect every tinny detail to be explained to them these days rather than doing basic research.
@@RetroCore Well actually, most HDMI adapters up to this point actually did use Composite or S-Video, so yeah, my point was quite valid. And yes I completely agree that it is dumb as hell as those cables are utter crap. You are probably aware of all the other crappy HDMI adapters on the market, so why would you act as if they don't exist with your comment? Thus it is not cut and dry for everyone to assume that these use RGB.
What is REALLY surprising is that we still get people, in this community, just randomly barging in with zero manners and a very argumentative attitude, pointing out topics that could be actually interesting and worth discussing, only getting (understandably so) tons of dislike and little else. Mark is providing you and all of us watching a service, so I believe showing some respect is due and deserved.
@@Galdelico I'm not sure I understood most of that. What is it that you're trying to say? If you're saying that I'm barging in with zero manners and are being argumentative, I should mention that I've been a fan of Retro Core for years now and comment on nearly every video I watch of his, usually with very positive feedback. This time was one of the only times I ever found fault with one of his video's. I don't sugarcoat shit. Just like in real life, I tell it like it is. Some ppl don't like that, but oh well, that's who I am. Tough rocks I guess.
@@skins4thewin You fully understood that, yeah, it's exactly what I was trying to say. My bad then, I never really noticed your comments before, whereas your streak here is literally all over the place. :D
Dunno about the last bits... To me personally, people like you don't really come out as cool 'tough-as-rock' guys, but hey... Peace out. ^_-
"This looks cool, I've a lot more HDMI ports on my TV than SCART ones....£47.99 Oh hell no! And that's the sale price?" A background hum that I've never heard from my TVs since I've owned the Saturn from launch and couldn't hear in your video. And to get rid of something I can't hear, I should pay £47.99? Now I have to admit I do see a slight quality improvement but it isn't £47.99 worth of improvement.
I'd love a HDMI cable for my Saturn but I'll be damned if I'd pay damn near 50 quid for one.
Better than buying the Pound and Hyperkin cables?Your getting the best option at this price point without having to spend $200-$400.
Those pound and Hyoerkin products are pure shite.
That's not even that much money. :/
@@MaidenHell1977 It is for a cable that does very little.
Wait a sec... the RAD2X can't do 720p nor scanlines. I assume you meant to say that you're running the RAD2X to your Framemeister upscaling to 720p with scanlines added. You really can't forget to mention those things as ppl are going to be misled and think that the RAD2X can do 720p and scanlines when it can't.
Again, it is completely pointless to do this. If you have a Framemeister then it is truly redundant to run a RAD2X to it, and I really don't understand why anyone would do such a thing. If a direct RGB signal from RGB SCART to your Framemeister doesn't look as good, then you likely have an issue with your RGB SCART cable, probably a cheaper insufficient or incorrectly made cable.
Thats 4 frames lag lone for the device. Not even counting the additional Flat panel Lag. Thanks but i'll keep playing on my CRT.
That's 53 microseconds (us), not milliseconds (ms). That's much shorter than a frame at 60Hz (16.67ms) - actually about 1/300 of a frame.
That's correct. Sometimes these lag nuts Drive me crazy. Let's all jump on the lag bandwagon. 53 milliseconds is nothing.
Why on earth would you run this thru the Framemeister when this is simply using RGB anyway? That would be literally pointless. If you actually have a Framemeister then you'd clearly be better off just inputting RGB directly into the Framemeister via a quality RGB SCART cable and letting it do the upscaling. You'll get a better overall picture doing this. Seems to me you are inexplicably unaware that the RAD2X is using the RGB signal. How did you not know this? What signal exactly did you think it was using? Composite? Clearly it would not look as good as it does if it were linedoubling from Composite.
This is a very disappointing review due to the misunderstanding of the way the RAD2X itself works. I thought you would be more than knowledgeable about the different types of video that retro consoles output via their DIN sockets, enough to understand what type of video signal these RAD2X cables are likely using. I do dig the split screen comparison though, that was pretty nice and helpful for determining the quality of the conversion/linedoubling. The RAD2X is most definitely a quality device that does things properly.
Of course I know it is using RGB. That's obvious. I shouldn't have to point that out.
It's not pointless in me using this either. If you listen to my comment you'll hear that this offers much better audio that a standard RGB cable. Image quality it also slightly better due to the AA. I only use the Framemeister to add scan lines. That's it.
I fully understand how this works. I only use it for two reasons. One, better audio than my RGB cables and two, I have spare hdmi ports while I'm always in need of extra RGB ports.
@@RetroCore It can't possibly offer better audio as it's using the exact same audio output as your RGB cables do. It's like I said, you are likely having interference in your RGB SCART cable that you use for RGB, as the audio should literally be identical. It's using the exact same audio pinouts, so why would the audio be any different? It isn't being processed any differently than your Framemeister would. I would recommend trying the fully shielded Packapunch cables that retro gaming cables uk sells, as that might elimintate your audio hum.
@@RetroCore Am just pointing out that it's totally redundant to use the RAD2X in combination with the Framemeister as you're adding an extra converter into the chain without any added benefit. You will get better results connecting RGB directly to the Framemeister if you're using a quality RGB SCART cable.
I myself and others have had problems with the Retro Access cables, which I believe I've heard you mention that you use those. I would definitely recommend switching over to retro gaming cables uk and their line of RGB SCART cables. I myself made that same switch over from Retro Access cables (back when they were known as retroconsoleaccessories) and couldn't be happier.
It filters the audio from my understanding of the spec list.
@@RetroCore Even if it does, it still means that your RGB cables are likely causing the hum. You're probably getting crosstalk between the signal lines inside the cable. The Saturn's audio output doesn't normally have that much noise.
put the name of the games
What is that game in the last?