Is Retro-Bit's HDMI GameCube Adapter Any Good? - Prism HD REVIEW

The Prism HD Adapter from Retro-Bit aims to bring your GameCube high quality HDMI visuals, all without breaking the bank! So how good is it? Find out in our in-depth review that covers visuals, build quality, accessories, price, comparisons to the GCHD MKII, and tons more!
Pre-Order here: retro-bit.com/...
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[@alexrivera3377]

I just received my Prism HD through the mail today and it definitely met my expectations! For reference, I am using 48inch 4k TV and it looks way better. It covers the whole screen too! I just needed to change the dimensions to 16x9. I think it was worth it, you can really tell the difference.

[@KitKater]

I didn't realize it was gonna be that expensive, I expected it to be like $25-30, but compared to that other one I guess its not bad, and for content creators and what not its basically a must have. But I learned something new today, I didn't realize there was even different models of Gamecube's. This kind of reminds me of how there are different models of the top loader NES's that have different video outputs.

[@NottJoeyOfficial]

Yeah, they require a lot of custom chips in these adapters, they aren't just plug and play like cables. They're also a lot cheaper than the $300+ official component cables for the system. I'd say it's worth it, I just wish the Carby V2 was in stock anywhere at all so I could buy that one.

[@jons9356]

Regarding the remote... You might try putting a chunk of white foamboard, paper or similar behind the GameCube so it's visible around the top & sides from the front. IR signals can be bounced off the surface & reflected back behind the GCN this way. This _might_ make it more convenient as it would let you use the remote from the front.

[@umji3389]

my setup is literally just a wii with component cables and a chinese hdmi box. even though the cables were inexpensive, they're gold tipped and provide a very clear picture. the box converts everything to hdmi and it shows up killer on my somewhat dated 720p flatscreen. not only is it cheaper than any of these options, but you can enjoy wii's humongous library as well.

[@captainsomeister]

The Nintendo consoles are cool

[@claytonfontenot1024]

Besides the virtual console, it’s all good

[@claytonfontenot1024]

Wait, does wii mini count as a console

[@claytonfontenot1024]

Ok

[@OrphanSocks12]

i swear just got a gamecube 3ds and a game boy recently

[@romanmoreno-hines5494]

Most underrated come all time

[@iPlaySEGA]

Can't wait for mine to arrive!

[@mr.markstar]

Me who doesn’t have a DOL-001 GC : *Cries in low quality*

[@JJsGA]

Just get a component to hdmi adapter...they are fairly cheap on amazon

[@marcholler4047]

That's what I did

[@JJsGA]

@@domdomdrumdrum yes....I'm aware as that's why I brought it up. Also you can't get component cables for the dol 101 that the op has. He needs a composite to hdmi. You can get a component to hdmi with a dol 001

[@JJsGA]

@@domdomdrumdrum no, the mistake was mine, I misspoke when referencing which adapter to use

[@CASTILLOGAMING81]

😂

[@theoofth]

As far as I'm aware games would just look better using the digital port because it has better video processing even compared to the wii. However, I forgot the youtuber that said this like 10-12 years ago.

[@alexc7997]

Id also recommend the Carby V2 from Insurrection Industries. I use it on my Panasonic Q and it works perfectly (since I can't use the GCHD with it as it won't fit)

[@netbirth]

Wait hold on does it work on you 101?

[@legostar55]

@@netbirth no it doesn't. DOL-101 GameCubes don't have the digital out port. They can be modified to have a digital out port but it's tricky to do that

[@legostar55]

Fun fact, that specific metal connector on the adapter was created by Insurrection Industries and is a perfect reproduction of the original GameCube digital out connector

[@AleksLazar]

Very nice 👍🏻 Only a bit bulky, like it would wear down on the digital port

[@samuelbaugh4952]

I don’t think that’s a big issue. The Digital port has metal shielding all around it, so it’s much more resilient then the analogue AV port. I’ve had a similar HDMI adapter on my Gamecube made by Kaico for a year now with no issues. The Kaico one is also made out of metal and is fairly heavy, no signs of strain are showing so far. But if you’re that worried about it, you could tie a string around the Gamecube handle and then tie the string around the adapter to act as a tension line. The Kaico adapter retailed for $70 when I bought it last year, I don’t know if it’s still made.

[@antimon1337]

My GameCube HDMI Adapter is my modded WiiU with Nintendont Can even play ROM-Hacks

[@Kniffel101]

That has a MUCH worse image quality than the various Gamecube HDMI adapters. But it's a better solution than using composite signals on an HDTV. =P

[@antimon1337]

Yes, you‘re right. Composite is unusable on modern TVs But in which way is the WiiU worse than a HDMI Adapter?

[@NottJoeyOfficial]

@@antimon1337 It really is up to personal preference, as the way Wii games (and thus GameCube games) are displayed on the Wii U differs from official component cables on the original Wii/GameCube or these GameCube adapters. I hear from many people that they don't like the display as much, but I can't speak for myself as I use my modded Wii with official component cables for GameCube and Wii games. I do eventually want the Carby V2 though.

[@TeamStarForce-]

It’s on sale right now on Amazon $67.99!!! I just got it

[@mikeuk666]

Great hearing you here 👍🏻

[@halabala1989]

2:12 Immediately recognize Metroid Prime music ❤

[@The_Bearded_Warrior]

Thanx for the review videos on this product, after watching both you really sold me on the amazing output this device does on the quality of picture it sends out. Not looking for a 720 or 1080p picture, but enough to make it look crisp then wat im working with now. The price wasn't hurting my pocket much either Lol 😄👏🏽

[@dorito3366]

Got a wii and finally getting GameCube games for my birthday! Starting with Metroid prime and mk double dash Edit: what I meant to say was I’ve had a wii for years but never felt passionate enough to get GameCube games for it but finally I got round to picking some up!

[@micahchu2159]

If you have a wii why do you need a gamecube?

[@dorito3366]

@@micahchu2159 I don’t need a GameCube just saying because I’m so hyped to get the games!

[@kevinfought9441]

make sure to get melee in the future, best gamecube game imo!

[@abra_escaped]

Cool, if you end up caring, the wii is super mod-able with some cool stuff like smash project m or nintrndont for *ahem* "acquired copies of gc games

[@dorito3366]

@@kevinfought9441 yeah was thinking bout that but I figured I would just get started and buy that later

[@njfox3305]

A playable build of Rarewares unfinished master piece dinosaur planet is now avalable for play on emulaters.

[@njfox3305]

To late Nintendo just shut the twitter page down that was fast.

[@aisback1990]

If you're reading this I'm hoping you have a good weekend

[@GameXplain]

Hope you have a good weekend too, Aisback!

[@manumatteo6038]

Sweet thanks😂🎉🎉

[@aisback1990]

@@manumatteo6038 no problem

[@elius1548]

I just play GameCube games on my wii, and it looks fine ig

[@elius1548]

@jose ramiro reynoso ruiz my TV is old enough to have AV support, which is kinda nice cause it means my Wii doesn’t take up and HDMI slot in my TV and I can just keep it plugged in

[@altairicgaming7108]

Hold on, I’ve had a GameCube since I was a kid, you telling me there was a way to turn on progressive scan on curtain games this whole time?

[@94jameson]

I would get this, but I have the Nintendo Gamecube Component cables already. Great video!

[@Kara_Kay_Eschel]

Same here. Had gotten mine about the time I had gotten my cube back in the day.

[@GoInGcRz]

Lol, you fancy af

[@indatubesurfer]

Glad I found this review! Was debating to get this or the GCHD this just convinced me to get this hdmi hook up instead of the GCHD

[@gbilo24]

But yeah... you need a "Digital AV out" port on your GameCube. Not all the GameCubes have that.

[@chip_plus_plus]

if you even have a GameCube, then yes, but...I don't. When will I ever play Kirby Air Ride

[@GC-jp4fc]

Use an emulator dude

[@MrEnte3000]

Buy a CameCube then. Or a Wii. Or a modded Wii U. Or use an Emulator. Or hope they rerelease the game.

[@chip_plus_plus]

@@MrEnte3000 I'll be doing number 4. Tried to do it on my computer, it ran sluggishly.

[@dannystavs2003]

Happy 20th birthday, GameCube! Here's hope that we will see more GameCube related content rereleased on the Switch!

[@Raerofficial]

I got royally screwed with my gamecube. You know how nearly all indigo gamecubes are -001? Well, I might just have the only indigo -101 in existence.

[@TheLegendryZelda]

How does Gameboy Player look like with this adapter?

[@alexandercolefield9523]

Looking it up on other videos, still kinda meh. The gameboy player fundamentally was designed with CRTs in mind and thus blurs everything no matter how how good the digital output is, its a software issue. You can do some softmodding work arounds but eh. Honestly, just boost up the sharpness on your TV or pick up a CRT on the side of the road lol

[@bcoz7264]

How does it compare to the Carby, however?

[@nealstacy4393]

Should be equal far as visuals. They’re all based on the open source GCVideo standard. Probably running the same firmware too. When they did the initial introduction for this product a few days ago they didn’t mention the Carby, even though the topic was frequently brought up in the comments. I’m surprised to see they are still avoiding it in the review. Thinking there may be strings attached for the review sample... Basically though, if you don’t have a modded GC, the Retro-Bit is the way to go if you want to update the firmware. It can be done via USB-C connection to a PC. If you don’t care about that, either is fine. If you have a modded GC with Swiss, either should be fine but the Carby surely works. I own the Carby and I think it’s build quality is nice. The Retro-Bit looks to be similar, although unverified.

[@MysteryGoat]

@@nealstacy4393 I'm looking to finally get an adapter for my GameCube and I agree the build quality looks very comparable to the Carby, which is what I was eyeing. However, I think the usb connector for updates kind of gives it a leg up. I don't know how often this software is updated but if there's something significant that comes out this makes it a hell of a lot easier.

[@nealstacy4393]

@@MysteryGoat I agree that it does give it a leg up. For consumers it’s great. Also competition should drive down prices. This is another reason why I’m cynical of this review, but I digress. For both the Prism and the GCHD mk II, they use “customized firmware”; however, I don’t think they are doing any heavy lifting to make it happen. Ikorb is the person who puts out the open source GCVideo updates on GitHub. The customized firmwares appear to be specific branding added to the menus. That’s it... All the versions released thus far match ikorb’s release numbers. I haven’t tried it, but I suspect the open source firmware would work on those devices just minus the branding. Bottom line, expect the custom updates to be released soon after the open source releases come out.

[@jacobharley7117]

I got one of these instead of a Carby because they are always out of stock. I'm very happy with my purchase.

[@timzel]

Just pre-ordered one 😁

[@blablabla769]

Why do we have to go through hoops to play these gems Nintendo...

[@bananananabus7603]

A very helpful and usefull video.

[@therencehabon2916]

3:01 I though Spiderman was gonna slam into the building

[@Clara_Page]

I recently hooked up my Gamecube to my lcd TV for a bit of SADX and to test my wavebird which has been experiencing some serious drift issues... OMGoddess it looks blurry, I do have a Wii component cable...im hoping I can mod that to fit the gamecube?

[@GameXplain]

Unfortunately, I don't think the Wii component cables can be modded since the GameCube one apparently had a converter built in, but this is based on like 30 seconds of research, so I could be mistaken. But it sounds like an HDMI adapter might be your best bet! :)

[@Clara_Page]

@@GameXplain yea I looked it up after posting the comment. It does involve some decoder chip or something. I guess I'll just switch to using my Wii for gamecube stuff :)

[@fluffisaurus7090]

You can get the GCHD Mk-II, which is like the adapter shown in the video but has Wii RGB and component video out. It costs $150 USD (123 €) but has a high cost to performance ratio. Also, it has separate audio out if that’s best for your setup.

[@RetroReflux]

I got mine today, I have found that the mclassic isn’t working with the prisim. I can’t get the sharpness to be sharper.

[@EvanAdvent]

How does this interact with capture cards? My Eon GCHD-II is great but after about 15 minutes the captures audio gets a MASSIVE delay. I want to be able to stream my Gamecube and I can’t with a full second audio delay.

[@nealstacy4393]

Just curious, have you updated the firmware? All these devices are based on the open source GCVideo. There have been several updates over the years and perhaps the issue was addressed.

[@califaern3sto]

I'm happy with the Carby

[@Gameplayer1500X]

I dont know much about these things but will this help reduce input lag?

[@TyroKith]

No it doesn't change input lag.

[@Wolfstanus]

I like how you use the wrong kind of cable for composit

[@jojowilson2868]

Phantasy Star Online supports progressive scan and it has a huge community for Gamecube. There's Gamecube gamers, wii gamers, and people emulating the gamecube version!

[@TheRealTedNeal]

How would I go about connecting to those servers?

[@viracati]

mine is on the way!

[@CrossfacePanda]

Personally, after doing an HDMI mod for my N64 thinking it’d be the ideal way to play on original hardware, I find that it highly depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a similar feeling to what you had when playing these back in the day, then investing in a CRT (if possible) is honestly better, as it just doesn’t feel the same played on an modern display. Depends on how picky you are of course, but there is a difference in feel, and scanline filters just aren’t the same. And if you want to have the clearest and ”HD” experience possible, and don’t care about experience the games the ”original” way, then an emulator is the ideal way to play them. So ultimately, HDMI converters and mods are only for those who want a convenient way to play on modern displays and still want to play on OG hardware, but don’t care about recapturing the original experience. And like Joey pointed out, it’s a decent solution for streamers (at least those who don’t want to start investing in upscalers and the like, and who don’t care for emulators).

[@skylinegtr3454]

Price is 80 bucks Ah yes i need that thing and Paper Mario TTYD now Amazon: *TTYD is $150 +* Me: ahh fuck

[@Gladson]

I'm glad I got mine complete in box for $30 two years ago, I have no idea wheels this one spiked in price like this.

[@SilverScarletSpider]

This is an amazing video

[@TheShachattack13]

Best Mario kart?!? I can see why Andre hired you

[@celestiakajou9459]

Does anyone recommend the Prism HD converter? I am looking to improve my experience, the hdmi converter adapter I bought last year is a bit blurry and bleached out according to my video upload.

[@ssjduelistDD]

This available In Europe?

[@califaern3sto]

Pal games aren't in 480p

[@TucBroder]

So the Prism goes into the Gamecube... Is it just an HDMI cable that plugs into the Prism then? I kinda want it, but I have no idea which settings to change and so on...

[@Lottofatto]

Yep! It's plug and play so all you do is plug HDMI from your tv into the prism. There is a USB C port on the side for firmware updates to the Prism. The main thing to know is you need to hold the B button when booting up the GameCube in case the game supports 480p, otherwise it boots into 480i and looks worse

[@PXKMProductionsGaming]

Does the analogue port still work with it attached? I like to use the rca for audio.

[@fluffisaurus7090]

Yes, I think so. You can’t use any video output with 480p engaged with the analog port, but you can use the audio breakouts of the composite/S-video cable.

[@Chaos89P]

But does the Prism HD output audio? Might seem like a stupid question, but the component cable for the GameCube still uses the composite jack for sound, and I've only ever used composite.

[@GameXplain]

It does, via HDMI :)

[@Chaos89P]

@@GameXplain I'll keep that in mind for if my only TV option is an HDTV, even with composite.

[@LowCountryMatt]

@@GameXplain I can't get mine to output sound outside of DVI Enhanced mode... and that mode messes with the image quality severely on the tv

[@anarchymale858]

Only got to 1:20 since i only have one input. Is there any other adapter out there for original models?

[@TheFrenchy82]

Retro-Bit's HDMI GameCube Adapter is nice, especially with the update function, but.. I would like to have a product with a cord of 20 cm between the adapter and the gamecube. That way, you can place the adapter next to the gamecube and not behind (and so the remote will work better...) and your adapter won't stand in an awkward situation. the adapter + the hdmi cable are pretty "heavy" for the gamecube"s connector.... I'm worried about the long term use of this adapter....

[@Mb.groovy]

theres plenty of adapters for it.

[@11cola]

Guys! My friend has a GameCube with qoob pro chip in it. Does this retro-bit prism adapter work on such console at all? Will they work together? The console itself has the digital AV output.

[@ItchyTastyPlays]

Huh...the price is cheaper for the Prism. I'm gonna go with that.

[@fluffisaurus7090]

In the video, they didn’t mention the revision of the GCHD, which has simultaneous component and HDMI output (both 480p!). They said this adapter is good for streamers, but I think the GCHD is better for gaming on a CRT while streaming to a capture device.

[@thedrone8403]

Could you use a USB c to headphone jack cable for the usb c port on the side?

[@vitovicari1691]

Well retro prism made a affordable component cable.

[@D1ab0lical]

Looks like it doesn't support my Gamecube, oh well.

[@dustinkinard7431]

I use the Retrotink mini with my Gamecube, and it works pretty well. It converts the 480i signal from the analog out port, using the included s-video cable, to hdmi in 480p

[@chimpmonk9847]

So where do you go for the firmware updates?

[@mgmboy3778]

Not going out of subject but when are the fuck when Nintendo is going to release GameCube games on their switch online service

[@stui8Bit231vamp734]

but do any of these adapters reduce input lag?

[@reallycoolman5943]

GAMING!?!

[@mikeuk666]

eh?

[@shadowmich]

Hii! I got a question for you GameXplain, I bought the Retrotink 2XPRO, now it seems that my gamecube is a pal so the s video cable doesn't work for me and I have to use the original gamecube cable. Some say a wii would be better but then I read online that that totally is NOT true at all. I have a 4K LG BX tv so it doesn't have the inputs so I need the retrotink for my older consoles too.. So I don't want to buy this adapter also, what can I do? :/

[@DragonProtector]

Hows this compare to pluto II hdmi?

[@vffvx8216]

is there a way to hdmi from the analog out port?

[@bjoern400]

Do i have to hold the B button of my remote before starting a game to acess the progressiv scan option or do I have to hold the B button of the controller??? 🎮😊🌌

[@InsatiableMonkey]

You hold B on the Gamecube controller.

[@KripticPlays]

Could I pair this with the m classic ?

[@DanielSilva-nr2cd]

Does it work on the wii tho?

[@aiolos8540]

do u think it worth to use it with mclassic? thank for your help

[@Rlucas198823]

Yes. Definitely

[@StackedDice420]

Would it go good with the mclassic?

[@jritsema1817]

I can’t seem to get mine to work with the mclassic. Works fine without it but as soon as I put the mclassic on it I can no longer get video output to the TV

[@deepdivemusicreactions]

what about Wii?

[@HighIvan]

This won’t blow up my game cube?

[@dboymax1]

Getting tired of hearing options only for owners of the 001 models while telling those with later models that your screwed...

[@MetroidLord99]

There's no solution for the newer ones they physically don't have the ability to do this

[@AleksLazar]

Crazy expensive these days too and hard to find

[@MetroidLord99]

@@AleksLazar recently bought a gamecube dol001 for 80 bucks at a retro game shop not really hard

[@AleksLazar]

@@MetroidLord99 Yeah, that’s nice. Harder where ebay is the only option especially for nice boxed units

[@MetroidLord99]

@@AleksLazar looking for a box is different that Is many times harder

[@niasayamuongbo6498]

I 💕 the video.....so Amazing

[@mosesh06]

Just purchased your face mask :)

[@GameXplain]

Yay!! Hope you like it :)

[@bennbutters2578]

Am I just set for hell or if I have the new model?

[@brandon_nope]

Why not just use a Wii and backwards compatibility

[@Chaos89P]

Because you use your Wii U for Wii games? That's what I do, at least.

[@nealstacy4393]

Because of the GameBoy Player. The Wii cannot play original cartridges. Also DOL-001 GameCubes have digital output which can look better than the Wii.

[@RPLAsmodeus]

Just got mine today. I'm having trouble activating 480p I noticed you mentioned that not all games can display 480p When you said ''hold B'' do you mean on the remote or the gc controller? Does anyone know, does Eternal darkness support 'P'? Or am I stuck with 'I' for that game?

[@sckbountyy]

the gc controller

[@RPLAsmodeus]

@@sckbountyy you legend

[@GameMaker3_5]

I've heard of someone who accidentially jiggled the adapter on their GameCube and it fried his console... What do you say about this?

[@jvogler_art4708]

my platinum gamecube isnt happy.

[@comicszoneuniverse]

For European Gamecube this is useless because all games are in 480i and not 480p. And for the 'Swiss' mod bullshit: no thanks.

[@DE23]

I'll stick to my Hyperkin Wii HDMI cable

[@NottJoeyOfficial]

I've got the official Wii component cables from Nintendo and they look beautiful. I used to use third party cables, but I wanted official ones, and the colors are so much better with official cables than any third party component cables or HDMI adapters. It's great.

[@shaunng69]

@@NottJoeyOfficial the rocketfish Wii component cables look just as good too. I usually see them for under $5 used at thrift stores.

[@moveit987]

Hope it works better than the CARBY .. the device look the same, but the CARBY was terrible....

[@nealstacy4393]

They’ll be identical in operation. The core design is based on the open source GCVideo. The Retro-Bit is unique only due to the USB-C port, which allows updates via PC. Essentially neither Carby or Retro-Bit’s product is unique in how they process video on a technical level. Electrically, they are the same. Unless the Carby had outdated firmware causing compatibility issues or was outright defective, expect the same performance from this product. If outdated firmware is the issue, you can check ikorb’s GitHub for the latest release. It can be updated using the DOL file with Swiss on a modded GC. If you don’t have a modded GC available, then this Retro-Bit might be for you due to the USB-C port updates.

[@moveit987]

@@nealstacy4393 For me in CARBY's Case, when HDMI support functions were switched on, sound was coming via HDMI cable, but the picture was a mess: the colours were all in all moved strongly to dark grey. When HDMI improvements were switched off, picture via HDMI was in correct colour shape, but the sound was not transferred via HDMI cable. So unlike in youtube comparison clips, picture quality was never really looking good on a large 4k TV. The original RGB cable unfortunately was still the best solution. Maybe the CARBY was defective ... Will never find that out though ..

[@nealstacy4393]

@@moveit987 Fair enough. There are options to explore to resolve issues like these. As it sounds, you’ve moved on and probably sold/returned/junked it. I just wanted to give some advice if you were in a position to try it. My main point is that this Retro-Bit product is basically the same thing. I wouldn’t expect a drastic difference, but there may be a few variables eliminated if you give the Retro-Bit a try. Hope it works out if you do. Good luck.

[@iyeetsecurity922]

$80? No thanks.

[@gamebred2094]

Off topic but my switch joy con on the left doesn’t connect to my switch in handheld anymore, what should I do?

[@nealstacy4393]

Call Nintendo customer support, even if it is out of warranty. They might be able to hook you up. With all the issues with joycons, they are doing a lot of free repairs.

[@gamebred2094]

@@nealstacy4393 thanks man

[@gamebred2094]

@@nealstacy4393 do you know if they fix the port on the switch where It connects to the joy con

[@nealstacy4393]

@@gamebred2094 They should be able to. That’ll likely have have a cost associated with it if it is physically damaged due to handling. Doesn’t hurt to call and ask. You can explain the situation to them and they’ll determine how to proceed. It takes time though to ship off and do any repairs, so just be prepared for that.

[@Cruxis_Angel]

Dolphin with an adapter for GameCube controllers. Seeing Mario sunshine in 4K blew the switch release away for me

[@DragonProtector]

I agree

[@fluffisaurus7090]

Are you dumping the original games from a hacked Wii or GameCube?

[@DragonProtector]

@@fluffisaurus7090 i used my wii but my gamecube running swiss not hacked can do it (i used action replay to boot swiss)

[@poochythedog]

4th

[@tweakPTCG]

The game looks really good but not as good as the MCLASSIC

[@fluffisaurus7090]

You need something like this adapter to use the Mclassic on the GameCube...

[@NightShadow720]

Thanks but I'd rather stick with the Nintendo Switch.

[@mikeuk666]

eh?

[@marionbenson6094]

Oh