Key Takeaways
1. The RetroBox is a modern vintage-style television that includes a built-in VHS player.
2. It features an LCD screen with a CRT-mimicking filter but does not support true retro CRT technology.
3. The display has a 4:3 aspect ratio, 60Hz refresh rate, and resolution options of 240p or 480i, but lacks support for PAL standards.
4. Connection options include composite, component, S-Video, and HDMI, but it’s unclear if it can downscale HD signals.
5. The price is $399, with a package deal of five random VHS movies for $425; currently, it is only available for shipping in the US.
A new company started by two students from America is trying to revive VHS tapes by offering a vintage-style television that comes with a built-in VHS player. Nevertheless, the RetroBox is quite a contemporary gadget and does not completely cater to true retro fans. For example, this all-in-one system uses a modern LCD screen rather than an old-school CRT.
Display Features
The screen features a filter designed to mimic the appearance of a CRT. Additionally, it has a 4:3 aspect ratio and a refresh rate of 60Hz, with resolution options of 240p or 480i. Unfortunately, it does not support true PAL for the European market, which would need a refresh rate of 50Hz along with 288p and 576i resolutions. Currently, the RetroBox is only sold in the US and is not accessible to customers in Europe.
Connection Options
On the bright side, the selection of ports is quite good. The device includes composite and component inputs, S-Video, and HDMI connections, covering the essential needs for connecting retro gaming consoles and modern devices like the Sony PlayStation 5. However, it remains unclear if the RetroBox can handle HD signals and downscale them to fit the display’s lower resolution.
The price for the RetroBox is set at $399, while a package deal that includes five random VHS movies costs $425. At this moment, the RetroBox is only available for shipping to US addresses.
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