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.
