32X S-video mod question

[SpaceKappa]

So after switching my SNES to S-video and seeing how good it looks I've wanted to do the same to my Genesis, but I know it's not as easy as just buying a new cable. I've seen plenty of guides for S-video mods on the Genesis, but since I always have a 32X hooked up to my Genesis, I did some research and it looks like S-video mods for the 32X are starting to pop up here and there.

Now, if I mod the 32X for S-video it'll make EVERYTHING (32X, Genesis AND Sega CD) games look better, right? The Genesis doesn't need to be modded separately in order to send a better signal to the 32X?

Also, follow-up question: if the 32X is all that needs to be modded, is there anyone who knows what they're doing who'd be willing to do it for me?

[SuperDerek]

I've never done that mod before, but I can say that you would only need mod the 32x. Some people seek out the 32x specifically for it's video encoder, which is superior to several models of Sega Genesis (removes rainbow artifacts). Essentially, when the 32x is installed, it's responsible for the entire video process you're seeing on your TV.

There is some video signal passed from the Genesis into the 32x, but this is still handled by the encoder on the 32x.

[Ziggy]

Now, if I mod the 32X for S-video it'll make EVERYTHING (32X, Genesis AND Sega CD) games look better, right? The Genesis doesn't need to be modded separately in order to send a better signal to the 32X?

Correct. You can mod the 32X to output S-Video and not have to mess with the Genesis or SCD. Because...

I've never done that mod before, but I can say that you would only need mod the 32x. Some people seek out the 32x specifically for it's video encoder, which is superior to several models of Sega Genesis (removes rainbow artifacts). Essentially, when the 32x is installed, it's responsible for the entire video process you're seeing on your TV.

There is some video signal passed from the Genesis into the 32x, but this is still handled by the encoder on the 32x.

Right. Although saying "the 32X makes the Genesis look better" is sort of a falicy these days. Some Genesis had HORRIBLE composite video, and the 32X has a better encoder. So if you're only using composite, then yes, the 32X makes the Genesis look better.

The Genesis passes the RGB signal into the 32X, which isn't effected by the video encoder like composite is.

Also, follow-up question: if the 32X is all that needs to be modded, is there anyone who knows what they're doing who'd be willing to do it for me?

It is possible to make S-Video externally, so if you can find an external box to buy or find some one to make you one, then at least you wont have to mail your 32X to some one to mod it for you. It would basically be the same thing going on inside the console, only externally. And since you can use a newer video encoder, it might be of better quality too.

[dsheinem]

It is possible to make S-Video externally, so if you can find an external box to buy or find some one to make you one, then at least you wont have to mail your 32X to some one to mod it for you. It would basically be the same thing going on inside the console, only externally. And since you can use a newer video encoder, it might be of better quality too.

This sounds cool. If anyone finds a link or is interested in making said box, please let me know!

[Ziggy]

This sounds cool. If anyone finds a link or is interested in making said box, please let me know!

Yeah, it's perfect for the person who can't do the mod themselves. It's as simple as plugging it into your Genesis or 32X, then using standard S-Video AV cables to plug into your TV (or I suppose the box could be hardwired to AV cables if desired).

edit: I should also note that adding composite output to the box, in addition to S-Video, would be super easy and only another ~$4 in parts, if that much. Since you'd be using a (hopefully) better video encoder, the composite video would look better just like how the 32X makes composite video look better on problem consoles.

[SuperDerek]

edit: I should also note that adding composite output to the box, in addition to S-Video, would be super easy and only another ~$4 in parts, if that much. Since you'd be using a (hopefully) better video encoder, the composite video would look better just like how the 32X makes composite video look better on problem consoles.

Shut up and take my money!

[SpaceKappa]

Thanks for the info, guys! I'm definitely interested in the external box, I've never heard of something like that before.

[KalessinDB]

I have my 32x modded by someone from Sega-16 boards. I like having non-proprietary jacks on my systems where possible. It's gorgeous.

One thing of note is that, for whatever reason, the composite working makes the s-video suck on it (suuuuper blurry). So he basically wired up a tiny switch inside the cart slot to turn the composite on and off. Which is fine for me, since while I always use the s-video anyway, having the option is nice.

Either way you do it, modding the system directly or building an external box, you won't be disappointed.

[SpaceKappa]

Oh, that sounds cool. If you don't mind me asking, do you remember who did it for you and how much they charged for the service?

[KalessinDB]

Oh, that sounds cool. If you don't mind me asking, do you remember who did it for you and how much they charged for the service?

Checked my PMs there. It was retrogamer343 (he did some later mod work on other systems for me, nice guy)... he charged $60 total for the S-Video/RCA jacks *and* installing the Crystal Clear Audio Mod on my model 2 Genesis... so I'm not sure what he'd charge for the S-video alone. This was like a year ago roughly.