Scandoubler alternative

[DrDekker]

Well - at 40 quid I've just taken the plunge and bought one.  I agree with orange that for gaming, composite isn't that bad provided you've got good quality cabling.  Since it's got VGA in too, an Amiga > VGA adapter can be used for the 24KHz+ modes.  The fact that it can be used with a whole load of other devices makes it even better value.  The description given on the Maplins website is a little vague in some areas - the device may even have built-in TV (presumably analogue).

If someone could design a cheap RGB > component adapter we'd be laughing as the VGA Gamer TV Box also has component in.

Some mixed reviews

[DrDekker]

I've just received my TVBox 1440ex - only a couple of days after ordering it (nice one Maplin :-) ).

First impressions are that it is pretty good for gaming - but pants for text related stuff via composite.  Pretty much as expected.  As I've mentioned somewhere before - the quality of the composite output is much better from my A600 than it is from my A1200.  It's hooked up to my AG Neovo 19" TFT @ 1280x1024 - perhaps a smaller TFT, say 15" may be better.

The unit itself is pretty small (6"x3"x1") and has composite, VGA, Component RGB, S-Video, RF & stereo audio inputs.

When using the VGA input (DblPAL mode?), it provides picture-in-picture, so it may be possible to run two Amigas (i.e. the second connected to the composite in) at once.  I haven't tested that just yet though.

There is also a built-in speaker.  The sound from this is understandably tinny and won't burst your eardrums - but you can hear your games well enough.

I haven't tested the analogue TV tuner either.  Although it won't be much use when we switch over to digital - it's nice to have all the same.

All-in-all, a good piece of kit for forty quid      :-D

Edit: - I've just found this article -  RGB to Component RGB.

Might work well with the Amiga and TVBox 1440ex :idea: