This "how to" blog post and the related video will show you how to play classic video games on newer HDMI TVs. In this video you will see the Atari 2600Flashback 4 running on a 2015 Samsung UltraHD 4K HDTV using an enKo Products RCA/AV to HDMI Converter. This little gem allows the user to take any "old fashioned" video device which outputs RCA Composite Video and connect it to one of the a newer "HDMI only" Televisions.
The enKo Products RCA/AV to HDMI Converter will accurately convert the old composite video stream into a high quality modern HDMI signal and will also insert the incoming the RCA audio signal into the outgoing HDMI data stream.
The device will even convert a "left channel only" mono signal into a full dual channel audio stream. Now you can use your old school video game consoles, VCR's, DVD players, and camcorders with your brand new UltraHD 4K HDMI TV.
Inside the box!
Inside the box is the surprisingly rugged, well designed, and nicely labeled RCA to HDMI Converter. Along with the device came some nice and unexpected accessories. The converter, itself, is powered via a USB port on the side of the unit. As a welcome convenience, the manufacturers decided to include a sturdy USB cable and a "USB Wall Wart" (mains to USB converter) to provide the required power.
The kit also include a very high end HDMI cable which I found remarkable. I've become accustomed to "free" HDMI cables which are rather cheaply made but this one far surpassed any expectations I may have had...and I actually did not expect that an HDMI cable was even included! That's a nice bonus!!!
Fortunately for me, my television had a spare USB port on the back and I was able to draw power from there and did not need the USB mains power supply. The spare USB port was also conveniently close to my spare HDMI port which made installation quite simple and care-free.
I have to say that I was actually stunned at the image quality. Yes, the old MOS Technology 6507 CPU uses 8-bit technology and, therefore, outputs rather blocky graphics by today's standards; but those old games look amazing today! The enKo converter maximizes the signal and brings out the full color depth and sonic potential that had always existed but had been nearly hidden away within those early and very classic video games.
my bright new 4K TV and heard those classic Atari 2600 sounds coming out of my soundbar and subwoofer, I experienced a moment of childish giddiness that I haven't felt in quite a while. It was like I suddenly found myself with the gaming setup that I'd always wanted when I was a kid. For a brief and warm moment, it transported me back to a simpler time and somehow now it makes my home feel a little more comfortable. Achievement unlocked!
Check out the video linked below to get a closer look at the setup and see exactly what is inside the box. I hope this "how to" blog and the associated video will be of some help to anyone who might be looking for a way to go retro-modern and keep those classic games alive!
