RetroBox TV offers retro design, built-in VHS player and modern connectivity options
A startup founded by two American students wants to bring back VHS tapes by selling a retro-style television set with a built-in VHS player. However, the RetroBox is a rather modern device and not a fully authentic option for retro enthusiasts. For instance, this all-in-one device is not based on a CRT but on a modern LCD panel.
The display is equipped with a filter that’s supposed to simulate the look of a CRT. The panel further has a 4:3 aspect ratio and refresh rate of 60Hz with 240p or 480i resolution. True PAL support for the European market is missing, as that would require a refresh rate of 50Hz and support for 288p and 576i resolutions. Since the RetroBox is currently only available in the US, it’s not available to European customers anyway.
That said, the port selection is pretty respectable. With composite and component inputs, S-Video and HDMI, the most important connections for hooking up retro consoles and modern set-top boxes as well as consoles like the Sony PlayStation 5 are on board. However, the manufacturer has not confirmed whether the RetroBox can process HD signals and scale them down to the lower resolution of the display.
Price and availability
The RetroBox retails for $399, while a bundle with five random movies on VHS costs $425. For now, the RetroBox can only be shipped to addresses in the US.
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