Nyko RF-X Unit Score: 100% Developer: Nyko

Function: So, you've got your brand new Xbox, a couple of games and some A/V cables. Time to rock. Just one problem: you've still got a clunker television from before the era of standard audio/video inputs, right? For shame! Nyko's got you covered, though. Enter the RF-X Unit, their automatic RF switch for the Xbox. If you want to enjoy Microsoft's gaming powerhouse on an older TV with only regular antenna plugs, you'll need one of these adapters. Whether you'd feel better going with the official first-party product or another company's goods entirely is up to you, but you could save some cash sticking with the better-looking Nyko version on this one.

Performance: Connecting the RF-X Unit is something a brain-dead chimp could do in seconds: simply plug it into the Xbox, pop your coaxial cable into the adapter, and hook the device up to your television's antenna plug. That's it. As usual, Nyko's RF adapter comes with a CH3-CH4 channel switch for ease of use, and the plug cover fits snugly over any ordinary TV jack to prevent falling out. But the best part? Over nine feet of cord to make sure nobody trips over the thing in mid-game! Please note, though, that virtually any RF adaptor provides the lowest possible visual quality in the spectrum of available input systems. Basic A/V cables give a much clearer picture off the bat, and newer TV models can handle S-Video and (sometimes) component connections, offering the finest in accessible Xbox eye candy. But hey, if you just can't shell out the dough for a fresh new tube at the moment, go with this adapter if you must.

Features: Allows hook-up of Xbox to any TV with regular antenna plugs Cord measures 9'2'' in length Automatic channel switch Cool, Xbox-friendly dark green design

Drawbacks & Problems:: Nyko has always been known for quality hardware, and the RF-X Unit is no different. Third-party or not, it's tough to screw things up with an RF adapter -- it pretty much works or it doesn't. However, while this product definitely does its job, perhaps the only drawback lies with the fact that anyone would have to buy one in the first place. Toshiba makes some fine flat-screen televisions for under 300 bucks these days, you know...

-Ben Monkey, GameVortex Communications AKA Ben Lewis