Video-SL General Discussion

Talk about Video-SL for Scratch Live.
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Macbook Pro (unibody) to Svideo/ Rca Video

Bought the apple displayport adapter to VGA now how do i get it to an s video or rca video.

can i buy this?
www.google.com

I bought this cause the concept seemed like a good idea.
microcenter.com

but the video is in black and white so now im just going to run the wire for the club i play at. Probably an svido or rca video..

any tips will help. never ran video cables for a club
At 9:03 PM 28 January 2009
DJ Grenade wrote
I bought a uni-body back when they first came out. I ran around in circles trying to get an analog out solution and could never get one. The problem is that the video out on those laptops is digital. Technically, the only way to get video out is through a digital-analog converter. I believe they run in the several hundred dollar range. Call someone who really knows video. They'll explain it better. If you want, try calling "Melrose Mac" in Los Angeles, CA. They're very helpful with this issue.

(Not sure it they've come up with a solution but the only one I ended up with was trading the laptop in for the older version).

Good luck!

Jon Brown
At 4:02 PM 29 January 2009
DJ Jon Brown wrote
Get a vga to s-video converter. Already discussed in this thread:
www.scratchlive.net
At 6:14 PM 29 January 2009
mle wrote
Quote:
I bought a uni-body back when they first came out. I ran around in circles trying to get an analog out solution and could never get one. The problem is that the video out on those laptops is digital. Technically, the only way to get video out is through a digital-analog converter. I believe they run in the several hundred dollar range. Call someone who really knows video. They'll explain it better. If you want, try calling "Melrose Mac" in Los Angeles, CA. They're very helpful with this issue.

(Not sure it they've come up with a solution but the only one I ended up with was trading the laptop in for the older version).

Good luck!

Jon Brown


I am using this one and it works great!!
www.avermedia-usa.com
At 6:25 PM 29 January 2009
DJ Pimp wrote
Dj Pimp are you positive your solutions works for Svideo in the newest Macbook Pro version?? I ask because i have gone to the store and bought two different vga to svideo converters and i cant get either to work. I bought this one shop4.frys.com and i could not get it to work. I also tried this cable www.amazon.com which did not work. Im trying not to spend over 100 bucks on something I wont use very often but i may need at one point. Your solution is pretty affordable.

I just dont want to buy it and have to return it, dealing with shipping etc. The only place i have booked to spin videos so far uses HDMI so i had it covered last night with a dvi to hdmi cable. I tried the apple store and they are absolutely no help at all. They basically told me im just out of luck and its not possible....
At 9:02 PM 1 February 2009
DJCheLu wrote
Man works like a champ. Stop worrying, go get it :)
At 9:24 AM 2 February 2009
DJ Pimp wrote
Well now i just found this thread and just want to help all who don't need to spend a bunch of money purchasing cables from apple... the new (mini display port) as they call them in the latest versions of the unibody macs, has eliminated the anolog output and gone completely digital. so ur only option at this point is the (mini display to vga adapter) and some sort of converter or multiport scaler that converts the digital signal back to an analog (composite, rgb, or svid) signal... Dont bother with the other connections as the analog pins are ommitted from the dvi and blocked (filled in). You can spend 40-300 dollars on a converter but that is the option for any type of analog signal at this time...

I learned the hard way i now own several useless cords and adapters learning this through the school of hard knocks!!!

m&m
At 3:20 AM 3 February 2009
i was told the same thing at the apple store. this is why i've hesitated buying the quickplay cable. sooner or later they will come out with a cable(i hope).
At 3:26 AM 3 February 2009
lvmez wrote
Quote:
Man works like a champ. Stop worrying, go get it :)

LOL well its on its way but i bought it from amazon since it was cheaper on price and shipping :). Plus its fairly easy to return if this doesnt work for svideo the way i need it to. Thank for the comforting words :)
At 6:40 AM 3 February 2009
DJCheLu wrote
let me know if it works. i have the same issue.
At 12:21 PM 3 February 2009
lvmez wrote
Quote:
...but i bought it from amazon since it was cheaper on price and shipping :). Plus its fairly easy to return if this doesnt work for svideo the way i need it to...


If you just plug the model name in google you can find it less expensive at many places and you may even find it at a local retail outlet ;-)
At 11:38 PM 3 February 2009
DJ MDX wrote
Quote:
...but i bought it from amazon since it was cheaper on price and shipping :). Plus its fairly easy to return if this doesnt work for svideo the way i need it to...


If you just plug the model name in google you can find it less expensive at many places and you may even find it at a local retail outlet ;-)
At 11:39 PM 3 February 2009
DJ MDX wrote
and this works with the Macbook Pro (unibody) mini-display port?
which is dif then the first gen MBP
because I dont see that specified anyplace
At 4:26 AM 4 February 2009
AKIEM wrote
Quote:
and this works with the Macbook Pro (unibody) mini-display port?
which is dif then the first gen MBP
because I dont see that specified anyplace

Thats the one Dj Pimp says he is using it with, and thats the one i am going to use it with. I receive it on fri so i will post back to let you know if and how well it works.
At 11:41 PM 4 February 2009
DJCheLu wrote
It does work... the brand new macbook pros dropped the "mini dvi port" for the "MIni Display Port" you will need to convert digital signal to back to analog in order to use s-vid or composite out on this latest port... you can buy the simple one for as low as $39 - or the spendy scalers $200 & Up for more output options... Many of the clubs and restaurants built even in the last few years are still composite or s-video switchers. Since the High Def buzz work came out many club owners still tweak when they see the price tag on High def video switcher..

M&M
At 5:52 AM 5 February 2009
Reporting back yes it works great, i tried svideo and rca video last night and both work great. Now i just ran into a few other mac problems though lol i will post another thread for that.
At 8:01 PM 8 February 2009
DJCheLu wrote
chelu - i'm assuming it uses the usb port for power? wondering if it can be powered just by plugging it into a powered usb hub or usb-to-wall-adapter.
At 11:00 PM 8 February 2009
skinnyguy wrote
i just bought a mac, and i have the dvi port(i assume) is there a link that someone can provide on where to buy the right conversion cables?
i have a vga to s-video or rca converter, i spent 40 bucks(simple vga converter)
At 11:31 PM 8 February 2009
Henry GQ wrote
Quote:
chelu - i'm assuming it uses the usb port for power? wondering if it can be powered just by plugging it into a powered usb hub or usb-to-wall-adapter.

Im actually going to try this method since as i stated in my other post i need more usb ports and it seems as though serato does not run well from a hub.
At 2:35 AM 9 February 2009
DJCheLu wrote
so I have read all the above and more but no one has answered this question:

Can people using the new mac book pro (with mini display port out) use the display port to VGA adapter (made by apple) and then use a vga to s-video/rca adapter(made by 3rd party)? This would save everyone here a ton of $ since the vga to s-video/RCA is only a couple bucks (1.48 to be exact on amazon)

NOTE: all vga to s-video/RCA adapters (not converters) made by a 3rd party require a TV-out single. Does apple support this in any way for this to work? apple and Nvidia who supplies the graphics card have not been able to supply an answer!

Thanks in advance
At 2:40 AM 17 February 2009
evader wrote
At 3:20 AM 17 February 2009
lvmez wrote
Quote:
so I have read all the above and more but no one has answered this question:

Can people using the new mac book pro (with mini display port out) use the display port to VGA adapter (made by apple) and then use a vga to s-video/rca adapter(made by 3rd party)? This would save everyone here a ton of $ since the vga to s-video/RCA is only a couple bucks (1.48 to be exact on amazon)

NOTE: all vga to s-video/RCA adapters (not converters) made by a 3rd party require a TV-out single. Does apple support this in any way for this to work? apple and Nvidia who supplies the graphics card have not been able to supply an answer!

Thanks in advance

That adapter does not work i have tried them. you need something to convert the digital signal.
At 3:57 AM 17 February 2009
DJCheLu wrote
i thought you tried the quickplay and it worked? didn't you post that somewhere else?
At 4:36 AM 17 February 2009
lvmez wrote
yea the quickplay works perfect, he is talking about "This would save everyone here a ton of $ since the vga to s-video/RCA is only a couple bucks (1.48 to be exact on amazon)" this adapter is just an unpowered cable and it does not work :). Wish it did since its less then 2 bucks.....
At 6:58 AM 17 February 2009
DJCheLu wrote
I bought this and it works perfect.
Has all the hookups a club would ever have,
composite,
component,
s video,
At 3:02 PM 17 February 2009
DJ Grenade wrote
oops here is the link
microcenter.com
At 3:02 PM 17 February 2009
DJ Grenade wrote
just got the quickplay as well. worked great on the new unibody mbp's. for the price($68) i think it's a good solution for those who don't want to use vga.
At 3:45 AM 20 February 2009
lvmez wrote
so from my understanding once you have the "Quickplay" you just plug and play! Correct? or do I need to have an estra cable to go with the whole device such as a VGA cable or DVI or anything like wise

I have the new mac pro with the DVI and usb outputs no VGA!!


Thanks guys hope Apple comes out with the solution soon and dont have us going to third party for something they should have taken care off!!
At 3:58 AM 24 March 2009
yes just plug it in and go, just remember that with this and serato both usb ports are taken so you might need to get a usb hub. I bought a dynex one from best buy that works great.
At 7:28 AM 24 March 2009
DJCheLu wrote
remember that when using quick play you need to hook the "mini display" and the usb cable for it to work. which leaves you with one usb port for serato. you'll be fine if you use firewire.
At 1:53 PM 24 March 2009
lvmez wrote
Quote:
oops here is the link
microcenter.com


So is that better than the quickplay? It supports higher resolution.
At 2:04 AM 25 March 2009
DJLRock wrote
mine works flawless.. good quality
At 11:45 PM 25 March 2009
DJ Grenade wrote
microcenter.com

Yep, mine works very well also.
At 8:56 PM 26 March 2009
dj vmb wrote
for those who have the new unibody mac, i just got this and it works. good price too.

www.monoprice.com
At 11:51 PM 4 April 2009
lvmez wrote
Good find man :P
At 1:42 AM 5 April 2009
mle wrote
i don't want to take credit for the find. another member put me on to this. it was on back order for a long time. i just got one today. the price is great. it's good to have options.
At 2:20 AM 5 April 2009
lvmez wrote
using HDMI do you see a notable difference in image size and/or picture quality?
At 5:07 AM 7 April 2009
Dj Ace wrote
LVMEZ,

I got that one as well. It works great if your connecting directly to a HDMI projector or tv. But (for instance), what do u do if a club has 2 projectors, one having a HDMI input, the other VGA or composite...and 6 older TVs with composite in only?

Could I just use that MDP to HDMI to a scaler box with several different outputs? And if so, what would be a good scaler box (saying I only need one input (HDMI) and a variety of outputs (S Video, Composite, DVI, HDMI, VGA, etc).

Thanks!
At 7:43 AM 7 April 2009
Millz wrote
ok i am leaning towards the quick play just have one more question, i take it that you run (i have the unibody mac) the mini display port (NOT the OLD ONE) to vga adapter - to the quick play (along with the usb port for power?) man that really converts the signal?????? I have to say I dropped a 250 cash bomb on a convertor box that dont read the mac signal to convert hdmi to component. mini display to hdmi works great but the club dont have it now I look dumb, so im so beat up and looking for the real deal, and this seems to simple? this little piece(quickplay) converts a digital signal to analog no joke? please let me know guys thanks so much.
At 1:03 PM 7 April 2009
Dj Beezie wrote
and chelu you said you had additional probs, was it a result of this quickplay adapter? can you send the link for the other issues?
At 1:06 PM 7 April 2009
Dj Beezie wrote
Quote:
LVMEZ,

I got that one as well. It works great if your connecting directly to a HDMI projector or tv. But (for instance), what do u do if a club has 2 projectors, one having a HDMI input, the other VGA or composite...and 6 older TVs with composite in only?

Could I just use that MDP to HDMI to a scaler box with several different outputs? And if so, what would be a good scaler box (saying I only need one input (HDMI) and a variety of outputs (S Video, Composite, DVI, HDMI, VGA, etc).

Thanks!


sorry man, i haven't tried it out on multiple screens. i'm sure you can get a box that connects multiple hdmi cables.
At 1:31 PM 7 April 2009
lvmez wrote
Quote:
ok i am leaning towards the quick play just have one more question, i take it that you run (i have the unibody mac) the mini display port (NOT the OLD ONE) to vga adapter - to the quick play (along with the usb port for power?) man that really converts the signal?????? I have to say I dropped a 250 cash bomb on a convertor box that dont read the mac signal to convert hdmi to component. mini display to hdmi works great but the club dont have it now I look dumb, so im so beat up and looking for the real deal, and this seems to simple? this little piece(quickplay) converts a digital signal to analog no joke? please let me know guys thanks so much.


get quickplay. for the money, you can't beat it. i was at the apple store and informed the tech about it. he couldn't believe how cheap it was.
At 1:32 PM 7 April 2009
lvmez wrote
At 1:34 PM 7 April 2009
lvmez wrote
Yea I ordered mine today...So the Quickplay uses the usb for power? The new MBP's only have 3 usb ports, so now I need to buy a HUB...anyone have 1 they prefer?
At 4:37 PM 7 April 2009
Millz wrote
and thanks luvmez
At 4:37 PM 7 April 2009
Millz wrote
the Belkin hubs seem to be the best. I have one and it works great, I run my Nanopad, Pio 800 midi out, a usb light and charge my my iphone all through it and Serato still runs great
At 12:50 PM 8 April 2009
BriChi wrote
Quote:
using HDMI do you see a notable difference in image size and/or picture quality?


@Ivmez
At 6:07 AM 9 April 2009
Dj Ace wrote
I use the quickplay at my residency for MGM and it works great as component...
At 9:04 PM 9 April 2009
DVDJ ©RUSH wrote
Quote:
the Belkin hubs seem to be the best. I have one and it works great, I run my Nanopad, Pio 800 midi out, a usb light and charge my my iphone all through it and Serato still runs great


ha sounds like me
At 9:08 PM 9 April 2009
DVDJ ©RUSH wrote
I ordered one of those for 17 bux...thanks guys
At 9:16 PM 9 April 2009
Millz wrote
Only "problem" i had with the quick play was not having enough usb ports. Just bought a hub and it worked perfectly.
At 10:00 PM 11 April 2009
DJCheLu wrote
I had a 500gb external full of single mp3s hooked up to that belkin hub tonight, and had zero issues. Thanks guys
At 7:33 AM 12 April 2009
Millz wrote
what would work better a usb hub or a usb express card for quickplay?
At 5:03 PM 21 April 2009
djdonnydee wrote
I think a usb hub that is powered by an external p/s this way it uses less computer resources to run
At 5:14 PM 21 April 2009
BriChi wrote
Quote:
I think a usb hub that is powered by an external p/s this way it uses less computer resources to run


i saw one of ur post here u said have a Belkin hub. which model do u have?
At 5:54 PM 21 April 2009
djdonnydee wrote
It was the 4 port black one. I believe it was f5u701 or 501. Something along those lines. It was flat, black, and included a separate power supply
At 6:35 PM 21 April 2009
BriChi wrote
thanks
At 6:46 PM 21 April 2009
djdonnydee wrote
here is the exact one www.amazon.com
At 7:38 PM 21 April 2009
BriChi wrote
thanks again i just ordered one
At 8:28 PM 21 April 2009
djdonnydee wrote
Nice, No problem
At 8:37 PM 21 April 2009
BriChi wrote
Quote:
Bought the apple displayport adapter to VGA now how do i get it to an s video or rca video.

can i buy this?
www.google.com


Don't buy that. It doesn't work. I have one. You need a digital converter to analog converter. I bought this one. I will test it and let ya'll know.

www.grandtec.com

This is how i found out about it:

www.tuaw.com
At 9:51 PM 21 April 2009
DJ PopRoXXX wrote
The Quicktime adapter works great...you can even set brightness, contrast, crop...etc.
At 9:53 PM 21 April 2009
Millz wrote
i got that one poproxx works well
At 10:08 PM 21 April 2009
Henry GQ wrote
excellent! i get thursday and crazily i have to use it thursday! hahaha. so my test will be at the club *fingers crossed*

thanks for the input henry. makes me feel good about my purchase. i just got the new MBP and i was like holy $#iT how do i do s-video. lol!
At 10:13 PM 21 April 2009
DJ PopRoXXX wrote
i actually got it for my pc....
At 4:44 AM 22 April 2009
Henry GQ wrote
your pc doesn't have s-vid? all my pc lappys have s-vid and vga.
At 3:42 PM 22 April 2009
DJ PopRoXXX wrote
nope.. only vga.
At 5:31 PM 22 April 2009
Henry GQ wrote
PopRoxxx, Does the Grandtec box work for a VGA output.

Thanks
S
At 12:42 AM 30 April 2009
Niro wrote
yes, vga out of the computer into the grantec box
At 12:46 AM 30 April 2009
BriChi wrote
Meaning VGA out to a projector,

thanks
S
At 2:50 AM 30 April 2009
Niro wrote
niros, get the quickplay. it also gives you component which you would use if you spin at crimson
At 2:58 AM 30 April 2009
D-Twizzle wrote
i think i might be sellign that one i was just talking bout, i got me a mac... and really dont use the pc for music video, just the audio gigs...
At 7:28 AM 30 April 2009
Henry GQ wrote
Quote:
Meaning VGA out to a projector,

thanks
S

Yes, I believe it has a passthrough for vga, but if you are using vga, You can just go right from the mac (mini to vga) into the projector, you wouldn't need the Grandtec box unless u need to do composite or s-video
At 12:20 PM 30 April 2009
BriChi wrote
Yes Niro, the GrandTec box works off of the VGA output. The box takes the VGA output and gives Component Video / S-Video / and an extra VGA so you can setup your own external monitor. Pretty sweet huh? And the box is very small, I put it in my turntable case underneath my turntable.
At 3:58 PM 30 April 2009
DJ PopRoXXX wrote
found this on apple's discussion about the video adapter for the Unibody

discussions.apple.com

apparently this is the only good solution so far that works with different resolutions

www.amazon.com
At 11:46 PM 7 May 2009
For those of you in Australia:

www.citysoftware.com.au

This one is better in terms of resolution than the AVerMedia one (up to 1280 x 1024, 60Hz)
At 2:48 AM 8 May 2009
shigga wrote
I'm thinking of picking up a macbook....

Is this video connection issue big enough to recommend going for the older model macbooks rather than the newer ones?
At 12:47 PM 13 May 2009
boabmatic wrote
not anymore. get the the new unibody.
At 7:08 PM 13 May 2009
lvmez wrote
So which one do we pick up? The quickplay, grandtec etc? I've been reading people thinking they have issues with the quickplay.
At 10:17 PM 13 May 2009
DJLRock wrote
At 10:19 PM 13 May 2009
DJLRock wrote
i have the quickplay and haven't any issues but i'm looking into picking the one that lrock listed as well. it's better going to a gig with options.
At 11:19 PM 13 May 2009
lvmez wrote
The quickplay didn't work for me - output flickers - doesn't look good. For those of you that are using it - what resolution are you using? What connection are you using?

I set have my output to 640 x 480.

Ordered the grandtec since the quickplay wasn't cutting it. Works pretty good. Every once and awhile there will be a really slow redraw on the output.

I'm interested in getting something with better quality, someone mentioned they were using this:

www.kramerelectronics.com
At 3:22 PM 15 May 2009
gmobley wrote
I have no issues with the quickplay. The flickering you are talking about is not from the quickplay but (from what Warik told me) is the frequency of the output window (secondary display). One place works great @ 50 htz while another place will only work with 60htz (LCDs). You should check that out.
At 8:45 PM 15 May 2009
Millz wrote
this is so annoying lol. I still havent used my new MBP yet because of all the confusion.
At 9:12 PM 15 May 2009
DJLRock wrote
nothing to be confused about. just get all the cables. better to be prepared for all obstacles.
At 9:16 PM 15 May 2009
lvmez wrote
yeah i'll just get one of each.
At 9:18 PM 15 May 2009
DJLRock wrote
i bought the mini display to hdmi, mini display to dvi, mini display to vga. i bought the quickplay (for s video and composite). Thats all you will ever need
At 10:20 PM 15 May 2009
Millz wrote
Quote:
nothing to be confused about. just get all the cables. better to be prepared for all obstacles.
well said. there will be obstacles when going from club to club.
At 4:30 AM 19 May 2009
krazyk wrote
Ok what about from the new macbook to s-video? That's the connection I'm trying to find.... =/
At 9:59 PM 19 May 2009
Dj K.Smith wrote
same thing K. get the mini display to vga from apple. then get either the quickplay cable to s-video or a converter box.
At 10:27 PM 19 May 2009
lvmez wrote
Where's the link to the quickplay Lou?
At 10:38 PM 19 May 2009
Dj K.Smith wrote
At 10:43 PM 19 May 2009
lvmez wrote
Now where's the s-video link on that one Lou?
At 10:48 PM 19 May 2009
Dj K.Smith wrote
it's the black plug K
At 10:52 PM 19 May 2009
BriChi wrote
And it will let me plug into a tv? Are there any other options besides this one?
At 10:52 PM 19 May 2009
Dj K.Smith wrote
yes, it does Composite Video, S-Video, and Component
At 10:58 PM 19 May 2009
BriChi wrote
$69 the cheapest you guys seen Bri & Lou?
At 11:09 PM 19 May 2009
Dj K.Smith wrote
this is one thats a little cheaper www.grandtec.com
At 11:16 PM 19 May 2009
BriChi wrote
Just got the Avermedia joint on amazon... 2-day shipping should have me rocking my tv this weekend...
At 11:23 PM 19 May 2009
Dj K.Smith wrote
Nice!
At 11:33 PM 19 May 2009
BriChi wrote
i bought it on amazon as well. i'm thinking about getting the grandtec as well as a backup.
At 2:10 AM 20 May 2009
lvmez wrote
Guys
I have a MBP unibody, 15 inch 2.4.
Does any know if the the grandtec model will work well rigged up to a S video projector.
Also is it possible to then have a third out put from this convertor to VGA to another Projector?
Your help is much appreciated as I really need a solution before playing at this club.
Cheers
At 10:29 AM 23 May 2009
RadioSam wrote
It should work fine, it is the one i use on the 13" Unibody and it works great, I doubt there will be issues on the 15" mbp
At 3:56 PM 23 May 2009
BriChi wrote
This thing didn't work... WTF?
At 5:13 PM 23 May 2009
Dj K.Smith wrote
did you plug in the usb?
At 3:34 AM 24 May 2009
lvmez wrote
yes the grandtec does have an extra VGA output on it. so you can run S-Video & VGA simultaneously. when at my s-video gigs i always use it for my own extra monitor that i view the VSL output window on. as for the projector question ... it should work fine if it takes s-video
At 4:56 AM 24 May 2009
DJ PopRoXXX wrote
Quote:
did you plug in the usb?


I cant use the usb cause I need one for the HD and the other for ssl... I did try it but it didn't work... I used the mini dv to vga into the aver connector.... =/
At 9:25 PM 24 May 2009
Dj K.Smith wrote
sounds like you did it correctly. the usb is needed for power for quickplay. not sure what the problem is.
At 11:09 PM 24 May 2009
lvmez wrote
on this new macbook, there are only 2 usb ports though Lou... I need a usb hub dude...
At 11:44 PM 24 May 2009
Dj K.Smith wrote
Oh and no firewire on the macbook either =/
At 11:44 PM 24 May 2009
Dj K.Smith wrote
Just buy a small powered hub, you can use that as a stand alone power source for the video converter, you wouldnt even need to plug the hub or the usb power for the video into the laptop
At 12:51 AM 25 May 2009
BriChi wrote
Yeah I had to get a powered hub... Now to get the resolution right, lol...
At 3:42 AM 25 May 2009
Dj K.Smith wrote
It is funny that we get the newest macbooks and we are on "cutting edge" technology with Serato VSL, yet we are held back by the quality of a crappy s-video cable!

I upgraded my portable set up to VGA and it is 1000Xs better than svideo. It only cost me $70 for all the VGA cables and the dist amp splitter! Only problem is the nightclub I spin at only has Svideo so I get to see the quality difference when I set up my equipment vs the clubs stuff and its just sad.
At 8:41 PM 27 May 2009
dj hes wrote
Just got this last week and it works.

www.radioshack.com
At 9:50 PM 27 May 2009
aLiEn wrote
Or you can be a douche like me and own one of these www.extron.com if you have $5400.00 and have true broadcast quality video. LOL

but I'm sure some of the affordable solutions are just fine
At 4:50 AM 28 May 2009
djdragon wrote
www.amazon.com

I just bought this converter and works great on my flat panel Sony 32" with Video SL and SL3 box, you can switch between NTSC and Pal so if u a international dj works for u, and also has the power adapter that does 100V-240 with the interchangeable ends on the adapter...supports multiple resolutions up to 1600 x 1200 also has a over scan and under scan feature. Power on/off on the box.
At 9:54 PM 1 June 2009
so now is that one better because it outputs higher resolution?
At 9:15 PM 2 June 2009
DJLRock wrote
Kenance, how is the output quality on your converter you just bought.

Thanks
Niros
At 10:29 AM 4 June 2009
Niro wrote
Alright this will probably be removed, but wanted to give one of you guys a deal. Selling the quick play converter for $55. PM me if any one of you guys want it.

Sorry PM's.
At 10:43 PM 6 June 2009
Niro wrote
the video converter is great, you can take it anywhere and it will work did a few gigs this past weekend works great for music video mixing with Video SL 1.1 and SL 3

PS---> SL 3 with VSL 1.1 is THE BOMB now the MP4s and MP3s have soo much volume gain on them its retarded what kind of levels u can get. :-)
At 10:37 AM 8 June 2009
retarded levels is what i live for!
At 10:46 AM 8 June 2009
skinnyguy wrote
how much gain is retarded?
At 4:53 PM 8 June 2009
krazyk wrote
Its definitly a noticable difference between sl1 and sl3. nice phat bottom..mmm
At 4:54 PM 8 June 2009
Millz wrote
i really live for phat bottoms!!!
At 7:41 PM 8 June 2009
skinnyguy wrote
Man, Im telling you...I spun a club in Evansville, Indiana called Oxygen a few years ago, and the bass was so loud, while I was spinning my eyeballs were bouncing, then one year at WMC, me and Joey B went to see Gabriel and Dresden. Junkie XL and a few others at Crobar...Junkie XL started his set with a sine sweep that almost made me and most of the other people puke. SL3 = :)
At 7:56 PM 8 June 2009
Millz wrote
Kanance- That StarTec converter...their website says "allows you to convert a VGA/PC video signal into a Composite or S-Video signal for use with a CRT or flat panel display."

Will it only work with CRT or flat panel display or will it work with any composite hookup?

Thanks!

JB
At 4:12 AM 15 June 2009
DJ Jon Brown wrote
DJ Jonathan,

It works for any composite hookup CRT or FLat panel.... I've noticed that the SL 3 has about a 20% gain on volume for those who were wondering...and encoding video at 48K and 160bit rate makes a difference on the audio!
At 10:10 AM 16 June 2009
Kanance- I'm sorry if my original question wasn't clear.

My scenario is that I've been VJing in a spot in Los Angeles that has a "video switcher box" with a composite plug for me to hook into. Then this box is the main feed to rest of the clubs video feeds including projectors, flat panels and such. Do you believe the Startec will work for me in this situation.

(I was using an older macbook pro that supported analog so everythings been cool but it's crapped out last week and Apple replaced with a new unibody...just fyi )

Thanks for your time!

JB
At 4:23 PM 16 June 2009
DJ Jon Brown wrote
DJ Jonathan,

I will be testing out the converter this friday with the club's feed going through a edirol controller then to a video DA to projectors and LCDs...I will let you know if there is any problems but i highly doubt there will be any problems should work smoothly.
At 1:30 AM 18 June 2009
Hey DJ Jonathan,

Used the converter for 7 hrs straight no problems worked great cool man hope that helps.
At 1:23 AM 22 June 2009
Whats the final verdict? Best quality for the buck but need top quality! I got the newest Macbook Pro (17" 2.8 unibody) recently and need to figure this out soon (as in today).

I always have had good experiences with Startec - www.amazon.com

or

E-book - www.amazon.com

or

Quickplay - www.avermedia-usa.com

Anyone try them all or find a product that I have missed in the thread somewhere?
At 2:23 PM 17 July 2009
Charlie Five wrote
Waddup Charlie, I'm not sure about the E-book, but have heard not so good reviews about it. The one Kenance recommended is doo doo (Sorry Kenance)

For the money the quickplay is the best bet, I use it for my backup. Just set the brightness to the low setting, than it won't look washed out.

The one I currently use right now is the Kramer vl 501xl, color is vibrant and picture quality is clean. I would say it is better than the converters in the older macbook pros. It has S-video and bnc outs instead of an rca composite out, but you can get an adapter for $1.
At 3:54 PM 17 July 2009
Niro wrote
Thanks Niros. This one right? www.fullcompass.com. Damn homey $400...I could get the club to get one if needed but need one for my bag. You ever try the Startech one? Thats what I am leaning to. www.startech.com
At 4:09 PM 17 July 2009
Charlie Five wrote
It's worth it, I'm not sure how many clubs, unless they're new are switching to an all digital system. 70% of the clubs I play at are either s-video or rca composite.

The startech one is the worst one I've tried. On a ten scale.

kramer = 9
quickplay = 7
startech = 4
At 4:18 PM 17 July 2009
Niro wrote
I found one on Amazon for 320 www.amazon.com

So how are you going from the mini display port to this? Are you using something like this? store.apple.com
At 4:49 PM 17 July 2009
Charlie Five wrote
this has become so complicated. i'm still not using my unibody yet.
At 8:42 PM 17 July 2009
DJLRock wrote
niro do you havea link to the one ur using? my only bitch about the quickplay is the whiteness/brightness of the output.
At 10:32 PM 17 July 2009
Millz wrote
i've also used the quickplay and have had no problems with it. i've also used the hdmi cable from monoprice and it worked great.
At 10:41 PM 17 July 2009
lvmez wrote
Charlie posted it a few post, it's the Kramer VP 501xl, you should be able to get it from B&H for $299.

With the quickplay I usually have it on the dimmest setting, so it doesn't look washed out.
At 12:01 AM 18 July 2009
Niro wrote
fthe kramer VP works awesome thanks for the review niro
At 12:57 AM 18 July 2009
Dj Ace wrote
Niro,

Does it mimic the the input for the output? In terms of screen size that is.
At 1:21 AM 18 July 2009
It mimics as long as you start it with a full screen video and push the auto image. Sometimes, if you play other sized videos for a considerable amount of time, it will rescale itself. This has only happened to me a few times. but it resized itself after a full screen video was played again.

Overall the best video converter out there right now, unless you move into the really really expensive range.
At 3:11 AM 18 July 2009
Niro wrote
I actually have a nice Extron VSC 50 that I am going to start testing later this week ( www.extron.com )

I need to throw it on a few HD screens (plasma and LCD and a projector or 2 just to see what it looks like. It will be interesting.
At 8:49 AM 18 July 2009
I also bought an extron scan converter after dealing with two crappier quality units. one was a startech and the other i don't recall. the extron costs a lot but at least no headache..

www.extron.com
At 3:55 AM 20 July 2009
Kedar wrote
at Kedar...does the extron unit automatically scale the image to fill a hd display?
At 1:02 AM 21 July 2009
Dj Ace wrote
i believe this will depend on what process you're running after the extron unit (matrix, distribution amplifiers, etc)

what do you mean by hd display? just a 1080 plasma or something?
At 8:48 AM 21 July 2009
Kedar wrote
yup
At 7:22 PM 21 July 2009
Dj Ace wrote
lcd or plasma...etc
At 7:22 PM 21 July 2009
Dj Ace wrote
Quote:
Waddup Charlie, I'm not sure about the E-book, but have heard not so good reviews about it. The one Kenance recommended is doo doo (Sorry Kenance)

For the money the quickplay is the best bet, I use it for my backup. Just set the brightness to the low setting, than it won't look washed out.

The one I currently use right now is the Kramer vl 501xl, color is vibrant and picture quality is clean. I would say it is better than the converters in the older macbook pros. It has S-video and bnc outs instead of an rca composite out, but you can get an adapter for $1.


No problem its not the best but for under $100 bucks it works
At 8:39 PM 27 July 2009
Quote:
at Kedar...does the extron unit automatically scale the image to fill a hd display?


The Extron will either scale to the size of the monitor or scale to the largest size that it can and fill the screen that way.

In cases where you have multiple monitors that you are filling it is always best to have them set the same way.
At 8:48 PM 27 July 2009
I do prefer Extron in general but the VSC-50 has been discontinued and replaced by the VSC-500 which goes for about $1,000.
At 8:57 PM 27 July 2009
Not true. The VSC 50 and the VSC 75 can both be found on e-bay for less than $150.00 And the VSC 500 can be found for less than $400.00 Right now there are 2 auctions with less then 24 hours to go and both are just at $120.00

Even new they are only around $600.00 I believe.
At 9:08 PM 27 July 2009
Quote:
Not true. The VSC 50 and the VSC 75 can both be found on e-bay for less than $150.00 And the VSC 500 can be found for less than $400.00 Right now there are 2 auctions with less then 24 hours to go and both are just at $120.00

Even new they are only around $600.00 I believe.



cool cool but i only buy new stuff dont like Ebay at all thanks for the info though.
At 9:11 PM 27 July 2009
Meant to add this:

I am going to be getting the Matrox TripleHead2Go DP edition when it comes out late August. This will solve multiple issues for me including having a preview monitor for each VSL screen and a main output for everything else. Plus it will also do my scaling for me as well.

This option will cost close to $450.00 by the time I add in all the cables and power supply.
At 9:11 PM 27 July 2009
Quote:
Charlie posted it a few post, it's the Kramer VP 501xl, you should be able to get it from B&H for $299.

With the quickplay I usually have it on the dimmest setting, so it doesn't look washed out.



I'll probably order the Kramer VP 501xl later when i need a higher quality scan converter.
At 10:38 PM 27 July 2009
Anyone tried this

VideoSecu PC Laptop Mac Computor to TV Presentation Converter, VGA to Video VGA2TV 1L7
www.amazon.com

i just ordered it... From the customer reviews, it seems like it may have a chance....
At 8:26 PM 28 July 2009
cain wrote
that's the one I use, It works great, I have no issues with it, I use the s-video out
At 11:47 PM 28 July 2009
BriChi wrote
sick...

suuuper stoked to hear that!

Thanks
At 3:22 AM 29 July 2009
cain wrote
hey BriChi correct me if I'm wrong but I thought I saw you mention a few times "thats the one I use" referring to different converters. If so which ones have you used and which do you recommend. I've had my unibody on the shelf since I got it months ago.
At 9:15 AM 29 July 2009
DJLRock wrote
I had A couple of them to try out. When I get on my computer I can look them up and post the links, but I returned them and stuck with the one Cain just posted above (same one but mine is in a blue housing even though it showed white on amazon also), the other ones I had looked really bad an I had line running through the screen with one of them
At 12:30 PM 29 July 2009
BriChi wrote
here is a link to mine www.svideo.com

same as yours but has a couple of more config buttons (which I never touch) on the top of the box
At 12:39 PM 29 July 2009
BriChi wrote
BriChi

Quote:
here is a link to mine www.svideo.com

same as yours but has a couple of more config buttons (which I never touch) on the top of the box


Those converters are way different!! The link you posted, svideo.com,, thats the one you are using with success and no lines running through the screen? thanks

I have 2 avermedia quickplay converter units and am over it. Picture quality of the output makes my stomach turn and im spinnin on plasmas, it will work in a pinch though, but just wanted to advise, if your an HD guy, ur gonna cry about it.

If anyone is running unibody to component and is just totally amazed with the picture quality about their converter please please let me know which one
At 1:40 PM 19 August 2009
Dj Beezie wrote
Quote:
If anyone is running unibody to component and is just totally amazed with the picture quality about their converter please please let me know which one

Me too! I have not purchased on yet but will need one very soon.
At 4:25 PM 19 August 2009
Charlie Five wrote
This is the one I have from svideo.com

www.svideo.com

it's the PC2YCBCR one.
At 7:33 PM 19 August 2009
BriChi wrote
does it look better than quickplay?
At 11:29 PM 19 August 2009
DJLRock wrote
i just got my quickplay in the mail today from amazon. hooked it up my unibody macbook and the picture is in black and white. how likely is it that my mdp to vga adapter is the culprit? i had the same problem on an extron vsc-150 and i know that the composite cable it good. thanks for any help/suggestions.
At 6:09 PM 2 September 2009
e.rich wrote
nevermind. it's a compatibility issue with my samsung plasma at home.
At 11:15 PM 2 September 2009
e.rich wrote
I have no idea what the hell ya talking about :(

I want to get in video mixing, yet this is the stuff that always makes me change my mind LOL

All i want to do is make youtube videos and see what i mix in my samsung 52' TV

I was told to just get an adapter from Apple and buy the RCAs to connect it to my TV
and then the guy told me to move my video window in my laptop towards my TV

If anyone can help me, please do so :D

I am willing t contribute money for your time (espicially if a person can make a video on youtube on how to connect a Macbook Video SL, so im capable of of doing youtube videos and watch my live mixes in my TV)
At 3:47 AM 3 September 2009
DJ Blend 323 wrote
Quote:
Anyone tried this

VideoSecu PC Laptop Mac Computor to TV Presentation Converter, VGA to Video VGA2TV 1L7
www.amazon.com

i just ordered it... From the customer reviews, it seems like it may have a chance....


How is that one working for you?
At 2:40 PM 3 September 2009
dj vmb wrote
just get the quickplay
At 7:31 PM 3 September 2009
Millz wrote
Blend 123, what kind of cable are you connecting to the connectors. If it's an Svideo cable, it might be one of the pins is damaged or mixing. There could be a lot of other factors also.
At 9:19 PM 3 September 2009
Niro wrote
Can i use Mini Dvi to Vga adpater from Apple. And then hook it up to my samsung TV with a VGA TO VGA cable..

My TV has the VGA Input :D
At 4:10 PM 4 September 2009
DJ Blend 323 wrote
If you have one of the new macbooks, than you will need a mini display port to VGA and than you can go from VGA to VGA.
At 6:17 PM 4 September 2009
Niro wrote
Quote:
If you have one of the new macbooks, than you will need a mini display port to VGA and than you can go from VGA to VGA.


Thank You Niro :D
At 1:59 AM 5 September 2009
DJ Blend 323 wrote
Can anyone post pics of the quality they're getting? Which of you guys can read text on the second display without getting a headache? I just returned the Kworld Pc to TV converter box because I could barely read any letters on the screen (My desktop, titles of music videos, etc..) I'm confident all of my settings were correct, I've been searching and reading over 30 forums to fix this.

This should really be a sticky, with good pics of the results people are getting with each box/setup...
At 3:39 AM 5 September 2009
Dj Wunder wrote
Quote:

This should really be a sticky, with good pics of the results people are getting with each box/setup...



yea :D
At 4:29 AM 5 September 2009
DJ Blend 323 wrote
Here is what i want to do, tell me if it will work

Macbook pro 17
to
Mini Dvi Adapter
to
Vga Vga Cable
to
QuickPlay
to
Samsung TV 47'


Will this work?

Please let me know :(
At 7:21 PM 4 November 2009
DJ Blend 323 wrote
are using unibody mac?
At 7:46 PM 4 November 2009
lvmez wrote
okay finally going to upgrade my converter i called Extron and they still have the VSC 50 in stock. Going to upgrade to that one now.
At 11:33 PM 4 January 2010
Hi guys,

I wanted to say thanks for taking the time to share your experiences with all of us. I just upgraded from a blackbook to a 17'' unibody and this whole week has been a frustrating experience with the all digital micro dvi to s vid/RCA adapter issues. My partner and I VJ around LA using modul8, and 9/10 of all the spots run majority standard def projectors. My normal setup was displayport > S Video/RCA adapter>mixer>house. I actually got in a small argument with the kid at my local mac store, who told me it was the clubs fault for not being progressive and going all HDMI, after he tried to sell me the S Vid/RCA adapter for the Macbook Air. This thread's been up for a while and im in the same boat as all of you were, so I thought I'd ask if anything new has come up. Same as all of you, I'm looking for the best resolution/ pic quality in general for the money. I can't drop more than a hundo right now. I see that there seems to be about 5 main converters you guys are trying, which one has worked the best or has anyone come up with another solution?

Thanks in advance< Trax
At 8:20 AM 22 February 2010
TRAXEX wrote
Here is a video that might help:
www.vimeo.com view
At 8:32 AM 22 February 2010
DJ Pimp wrote
Quote:
Here is a video that might help:
www.vimeo.com view


Awesome. Is that the quickplay?
At 8:40 AM 22 February 2010
TRAXEX wrote
Quote:
Quote:
Here is a video that might help:
www.vimeo.com view


Awesome. Is that the quickplay?


Yes, the Aver Media QuickPlay
At 8:46 AM 22 February 2010
DJ Pimp wrote
That seems like pretty good quality to me, how is it with projection?

Does anyone know how that stacks up with the Extron VSC 50's, the sabrent converter(like the one found on svideo.com), or the grandtech Gez-1000?

Those seem to be the cheapest ones. Links below for reference tothe last two im talking about:

www.amazon.com

www.amazon.com
At 8:54 AM 22 February 2010
TRAXEX wrote
one thing u dont wanna do is cheap out on any part of your video setup.
At 9:02 AM 22 February 2010
Millz wrote
no doubt.
At 9:31 AM 22 February 2010
Henry GQ wrote
ya, totally agreed.

So you guys seconding the quickplay then?

Thanks,

T
At 9:45 AM 22 February 2010
TRAXEX wrote
i was using the startech converter but I have now upgraded to the Extron VSC 50 and it is a big improvement but also a big hole in my pocket. Extron has discontinued the VSC 50 but you still can get them new from them you just have to let a dealer call them to see if they still have it in stock. I just ordered mine about a month ago.
At 2:20 PM 22 February 2010
www.extron.com

as of now they still have A stock available
At 2:22 PM 22 February 2010
oh if your wondering about the RCA cable here is the solution if your not using a S-video connection
www.hosatech.com
At 2:25 PM 22 February 2010
You would think by now someone would have made a 3rd party tool so you can just plug n play just as the previous mac versions. I was wonder if there was an update too.

This past weekend I djed at a club that has video, but only with RCA, and I didnt bring any adapters, just had my vga plug with me. so no video. so dumb.
At 5:33 PM 22 February 2010
dj hes wrote
the quickplay has, composite, component, and s video. and its 50 - 70 bux depending on where u get it. works good 2.
At 5:38 PM 22 February 2010
Millz wrote
but you need a usb port open for quickplay right? I have 2 different vga to rcs/svideo adapters. The best one i got was from monoprice.com and it was only $27 bucks
www.monoprice.com

same problem tho uses USB for power. but i got this USB to Wall power plug and it works without takin up a USB port.

www.monoprice.com
At 5:45 PM 22 February 2010
dj hes wrote
Quote:
You would think by now someone would have made a 3rd party tool so you can just plug n play just as the previous mac versions. I was wonder if there was an update too.

That's not possible without converting the output signal. The output on the unibody MBP's is DIGITAL. You will always need a converter if going to analog. (again for the unibody's and I would be moving forward).
At 5:57 PM 22 February 2010
Charlie Five wrote
The Quickplay is plug and play though. It's so easy a caveman could do it.
At 5:57 PM 22 February 2010
Charlie Five wrote
I might have to check it out then.. its the age old question tho, you only have 2 usb ports, (1 for Serato, 1 for external drive)
At 6:07 PM 22 February 2010
dj hes wrote
drop the usb2.0 external drive and get you a firewire drive. usb is so 2000 and late.
At 6:10 PM 22 February 2010
Millz wrote
and you could get a powered usb hub, or a cardbus hub...
At 6:11 PM 22 February 2010
Millz wrote
Quote:
drop the usb2.0 external drive and get you a firewire drive. usb is so 2000 and late.


Unfortunately the fucking macbook unibody 1st gen didnt come with firewire... so annoying.
At 6:14 PM 22 February 2010
dj hes wrote
damn, time to sell that pup and get a big dawg :)
At 6:18 PM 22 February 2010
Millz wrote
There are all sorts of work arounds for power. Get one of those plug thingys like come with the iPhone to power the Quickplay.

It produces a pretty good picture and is very cost effective and portable. Component, composite, and s-video.
At 10:35 PM 22 February 2010
Charlie Five wrote

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