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GameLink 300 S-Video Cable
Score: 95%
Developer: Monster
Device Type: Video



Function:

Okay. We all know the PS2 looks nice and all, but does it look -really- nice? We?ve all had the ?wobbly text? problem, both on the PSOne and the PS2, especially in high-res mode. And although that may seem like a minor issue, after playing a game for hours, a clear signal can be the difference between enjoyment and eye strain.

The GameLink 300 S-Video Cable does a whole lot of good in remedying that. Short of buying a new television with Optical inputs, this is as good as you?re going to get when it comes to video reception. And although it?s noticeable in PS2 games, I?ve found that the biggest boost comes from using it for playing PSOne games instead.


Performance:

Be forewarned -- the Monster GameLink 300 S-Video Cable only works with (obviously) TV sets with S-Video inputs. Most recent sets do, and some older high-end systems do as well. If you don?t have it, though, this cable?s useless.

S-Video is a higher-quality signal than your ?standard? composite or, god forbid, coaxial connection. So right away you?ll see a higher clarity of text, menus, and other static things. The real benefits start to show themselves when you actually get into the games, though.

On the PS2?s side, for example, take TimeSplitters. While it?s an extremely fast-paced game, the graphics often leave something to be desired. Using the GameLink 300, they look a little smoother, a little more solid. And, more importantly than in the game, when you?re editing your own levels, the edit screen is easier to read. Very nice.

Any game with smallish text (like Theme Park Roller Coaster and Summoner) benefits from the graphical improvement. And quite a few feel less ?fuzzy.? This is most apparent in something like Final Fantasy IX for the PSOne, which has a decidedly blurry feel to it when played without the cable>, but becomes sharp and distinct with it.

Of course, with games for the PSOne, sometimes you see a little more than perhaps you should. Unfortunately, the graphical limitations of the old system are even more apparent when the video?s razor sharp. But I find that much more appealing than shoddy picture quality.

Plugging it in is a snap. The connector for the S-Video itself is standard, but the connectors for the composite audio are unique. They have a look that reminds me of a turbine, and they clamp on hard. That?s a good thing -- you definitely get the best contact you possibly can -- but when you want to take the cable off and plug something else in, they?re a bear to unplug. Still, you?ve got to take the good with the bad, and it?s better to have them secure than loose.


Features:
  • Long cord for maximum distance placement of your PSOne/PS2
  • Clamping plugs that give best possible contact
  • Liberal use of technology (gold contacts, doped wires) to maximize gain and minimize interference
  • Fantastic video and audio quality
  • Spiffy blue!

Drawbacks & Problems::

The only drawback I had with the GameLink 300, and it?s somewhat a byproduct of the turbine-style plugs, is the removal issue. I often felt that I was going to break the connectors because of the amount of force I had to exert. This wouldn?t be an issue for everyone, but when you often drag your PS2 out into the main room for full family viewing of DVDs and gaming, and then cart it back to the bedroom for late-night sessions, it becomes something of a pain to remove the cords. It?s not a terrible drawback, however, and only steals a small bit of the Monster GameLink 300 S-Video Cable?s glory.

-Sunfall to-Ennien, GameVortex Communications
AKA Phil Bordelon

Sony PlayStation 2 DVD Wireless Remote Sony PlayStation 2 LightWave 100

 
Game Vortex :: PSIllustrated