Console Information

A word of caution

The Super Nintendo (all models) outputs a video signal that is 240 lines of resolution. Recording this should not be a problem if you are using a standard definition capture device (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 NES. 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 SNES and you will need a standard definition capture device to record the footage. Two commonly used capture devices that support 240 lines of resolution are the Dazzle DVC100 and the Ez-Cap.

Models

Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)

The standard model SNES has a multi-out A/V connector in the back. The A/V cables that came with the system include the standard red white and yellow (composite video) connectors. This same connector is used by the Nintendo 64 and the Gamecube. You can use the standard A/V cables that are included with the SNES and connect them to your recording equipment to get video footage that is acceptable for SDA. While the standard A/V cables that come with the SNES are composite video, the SNES is also capable of outputting S-Video. Nintendo did not release an official S-Video connector for the SNES, however you can purchase a third party set of cables that includes it. S-Video provides superior picture clarity and quality and it is strongly preferred over composite video.

Left: The standard A/V cables from Nintendo
Right: Third party A/V cables with S-Video

SNES-101 (SNES Jr)

The SNES-101 redesign does not have any significant differences from the original SNES in terms of reliability or functionality. One notable drawback to the SNES-101 is not capable of outputting an S-Video signal like the original SNES is. While your recording will still be of an acceptable quality, S-Video is ideal. This is why we generally recommend the original SNES model.