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We've observed fairly strong demand for the XRGB-2+ upscan converter in the video game market over the years but we've always wondered why more companies didn't enter the market. Competitors to Micomsoft's box have been scarce. Hori addresses the scarcity this week with their first effort in the upscan converter market at a very competitive price. Dubbed the Upscan Converter 2 (there was no Upscan Converter 1), the new device appears to make an attempt to capitalize on the name recognition of the XRGB-2+. Hori's box accepts composite AV and S-Video from any video source such as a DVD-Player, a Dreamcast, or a VCR. Please note however that there are no direct component RGB inputs on the converter although it will support component RGB on the PS2 through the direct connect multi-AV cable attached to the unit. An interesting development in Hori's upscan converter is NTSC and PAL video support at a resolution of 640x480. Unfortunately, similar to the XRGB-2+, the Upscan Converter 2 (UC2) does not support progressive scan. Box Specifications:
Powered through PC USB port (+5V 500mA)
Video Inputs: Composite and S-Video; Direct component RGB for PS2
Audio Inputs: 3.5mm Stereo
Dimensions: 5.5 x 3.5 x 1.1" (140 x 90 x 30mm) The specs sheet mentions that the peripheral draws its power from the USB port of a PC but the USB ports of a PS2 and Xbox will do just as well to power the unit. However, those who use the UC2 with a DVD player or other USB-challenged device will be hard-pressed to power the unit. It's a curious design decision but Hori appears to be targeting the unit solely to the PS2 market in Japan. View a larger photo of this item.
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