Original Xbox (NTSC) video output - HDMI converter, or RGB SCART cable (from RGC)?

Hanafuda

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There's always something in my retro stuff that needs an upgrade or new hardware gizmo, but I'm getting close to maybe finally doing something with my original Xbox that I bought 25+ years ago, but which hasn't even been turned on in at least 15 years. Yes, I know it likely needs a recap job done before anything else, assuming it hasn't already puked its own guts out all over the board. But after that, I'll be modding it, installing a hdd of some sort, and then I'll want to get the best video output I can.

I know there are HDMI adapters which I assume convert the component output, but I already use a Framemeister upscaler (another thing that will eventually get an upgrade) through a SCART switchbox for several of my old consoles, and retrogamingcables sells a SCART RBG cable for the original Xbox. The output would be 480p I guess? And that's fine, if it is at least equivalent (or preferably better) in picture quality than I'd get from an HDMI adapter. I would use the Framemeister to upscale to 720p.
 
People (you can find these on ebay) mod the original xbox 360 component cable with the xbox plug, i have one of these and use it with a retrotink 4kCE and it works well
 
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Thank you both. There are a couple different component cables (third party) made for OG Xbox on Amazon. Any reason they wouldn't be good enough?
 
As far as I know it's not recommended to use unbranded analog cables (either SCART or component) since depending on the length of the cable/quality of the shielding etc there can be visible audio and/or video noise/artefacts (especially on upscalers). The modded 360 cables are known good since the MS cable is obviously good quality
 
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I agree with Aurora Wright.

I do use unbranded SCART and component cables on the OG Xbox. With component sometimes there's video noise (light pattern of running stripes across the screen) in some video modes, most notable during grey screens. And with RGB SCART audio noise is most notable during bright screens.

But it's playable and can be a economical choice if you don't play very often and/or doesn't care to not have the "best" image you can get.
 

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