TurboGrafx-16 Capture
From SDA Knowledge Base
Contents
Console Information
| Resolution | 240* |
| A/V Outputs | RF, Composite (with Turbo Booster attachment) |
*The TurboGrafx-16 used a variety of resolutions, but they can roughly be lumped under the category of 240. None of the resolutions approach 480 lines of resolution.
A word of caution
The TurboGrafx-16 outputs a video signal that is roughly 240 lines of resolution. Recording this should not be a problem for most standard definition capture devices (one that only has composite/S-Video inputs) or a DVD recorder. You may run into problems if you are using a capture device that is designed to record high definition footage to try and record video from your console. Most high definition video capture devices do not support video resolutions that are this low. Unless your high definition capture device explicitly lists support for 240 lines of resolution, it is safe to assume that it will not be able to record video from the Sega Saturn and you will need a standard definition capture device to record the footage. Our list of capture devices includes which devices support 240 lines of resolution.
Getting the best video quality
The TurboGrafx-16 console shipped with RF out. RF provides the worst A/V quality of any connector. The TG-16 also had an expansion slot. With the slot you could connect an accessory called the Turbo Booster. The turbo booster gives the console A/V out by adding composite video and RCA audio cables. This is the ideal way of getting the best possible audio and video quality out of your console. There is also an accessory called the turbo booster plus which offered some saving capabilities in addition to the turbo booster, however it didn't offer any improvement in audio/video quality. This accessory is becoming rarer and more expensive so there are some alternatives available below.
Alternatives to the turbo booster
- Make your own cable - If you feel comfortable buying a few parts you can make your own A/V connectors. This is a bit more involved, but can save you some money
- Use a VCR to get A/V out - By plugging the RF connector from the TurboGrafx-16 into a VCR, you can use the VCR's A/V out to get the composite and RCA connectors needed for capture. Be warned as you do take a hit in audio/video quality when doing this.
