I review whatever I want now - Retrotink 4K Video Upscaler

The paragraph discusses the enduring appeal of CRT Tube TVs, highlighting their zero latency, motion clarity, and deep blacks. It then humorously reveals that the described features actually belong to an OLED TV, which is using the RetroTINK 4K, a device that emulates the look and feel of a CRT. The RetroTINK 4K is introduced as a niche product that claims to be the best and most versatile retro video game scaler, with the reviewer expressing excitement about its potential to replace old CRT TVs. The paragraph also mentions a sponsorship by Build Redux, a company that helps customize personalized builds for customers.

This paragraph delves into the capabilities of the RetroTINK 4K, the world's first 4K scaler for retro games. It is powered by a Cyclone 5 series FPGA, offering CRT phosphor emulation filters, minimal processing delay, and robust input/output options. The device supports various analog video standards and includes a new VGA port, along with SCART and RCA connections. The paragraph also discusses the benefits of the RetroTINK's HDMI input, which allows for compatibility with modern consoles and the potential to pair with other retro gaming devices. The reviewer expresses admiration for the RetroTINK's ability to upscale older games while maintaining their charm and authenticity.

The paragraph focuses on the customization options available with the RetroTINK 4K, emphasizing the joy of tinkering with settings to achieve the perfect gaming experience. It highlights the device's image processing features, such as scanlines, masks, and horizontal blur, which contribute to a more authentic CRT look. The discussion also touches on the importance of 4K resolution for accurately rendering the detailed phosphor colors of a CRT. The paragraph further explores the use of HDR to enhance the contrast and brightness of the image, and the community-driven profiles that allow users to download ideal settings for specific consoles and games.

This section compares the RetroTINK 4K's performance with that of modern consoles like the Nintendo Switch and traditional CRTs. It explores the scaling capabilities of the RetroTINK when used with lower-resolution games and discusses the preferences for sharpness versus the more natural look provided by the device. The paragraph also addresses the limitations of the RetroTINK when handling 720p gaming and its compatibility with 1080p SDR. The discussion includes the input latency measurements, which show impressively low latency in both 60 Hz and 120 Hz modes, and the support for variable refresh rate and black frame insertion for better motion clarity.

The paragraph concludes with a discussion on the RetroTINK 4K's ability to closely emulate the look of a CRT, especially at higher resolutions. It highlights the device's strengths in handling text and interlaced content, and acknowledges that while CRTs still hold some advantages, the RetroTINK 4K offers a compelling alternative. The paragraph also touches on the challenges of using the latest OLED displays with the RetroTINK due to their different black frame insertion methods. The reviewer suggests that for most people, the RetroTINK 4K provides an experience so close to a CRT that it may not be necessary to hold onto a traditional CRT TV anymore.

The final paragraph discusses the cost of the RetroTINK 4K, noting its high price point of $750 and comparing it to the older, more affordable 5x model. It explains that the price is justified by the costs associated with the Cyclone 5 FPGA and the development effort behind the product. The paragraph also mentions that the existence of a high-end product like the RetroTINK 4K could potentially lead to lower prices for older models. It concludes by mentioning the availability of the RetroTINK 4K for purchase and segues into a sponsorship by Grammarly, emphasizing its benefits for improving writing quality and efficiency.