This page provides information about audio and video output options and upgrades for the N64 console. I strongly recommend watching the video below, or reading the N64 Getting Started Guide for context before proceeding:
|
Which RGB mod for each model N64? This page shows you the different RGB mod options available and which will work with each N64 revision. |
This page links to quality S-Video cables and also shows which RGB cable to use with your RGB-modded N64. |
|
N64 Basic RGB Mod – Pre-Made Amp This page shows how to perform the RGB mod on compatible NTSC systems, using a pre-made RGB amp that uses the THS7314 chip. |
This page shows how to perform the RGB mod on compatible NTSC systems, using the THS7314 RGB amp. This mod outputs the same video quality as the pre-made amp, however it requires you to assemble your own circuit. |
|
This page is a review and installation reference for the UltraHDMI upgrade for the N64. It allows 480p to 1080p output from an N64 with little to no lag! |
Many N64 games have a “blurry” look to them, due to the way Nintendo designed the console. In most cases, leaving this enabled works best, but you can experiment with turning it off in different ways. |
Summary / Other Info:
– Some N64 expansion pack games output in 480i, instead of 240p. This might cause issues with certain scalers that drop out when switching resolutions. Also, scanlines will look different in 480i and you’ll see some “interlaced flicker”. For these reasons, I usually don’t recommend using 480i with N64, which is sometimes called “high resolution mode” in those games. More information on 240p and 480i can be found here: http://www.retrorgb.com/240p.html
– If you’re using a CRT, RGB-modding might not be worth the effort, as both composite video and S-Video look great from an N64, on CRT’s.
– If you’d prefer to play your N64 on flat-screen TV’s, an RGB mod will allow for a sharper image with better colors, but in my opinion, it’s not necessary. Using a RetroTINK 2x or RAD2x linedoubler with a smoothing filter can give you a great 480p image and products like the RetroTINK 5x will provide an excellent 1080p (or higher) output just by using one of the above S-Video cables.
If you’d like info on mods for other systems, head to the Getting RGB From Each System page or check out the main page for more retro-awesomeness.