Excited for a Startup’s Attempt to Revive the VHS Combo TV, but My Retro Gamer Instincts Are Cautious
I’ve developed a bit of an obsession with collecting CRTs in all their quirky forms, and it seems like VHS combo TVs are making a comeback. A startup is even working on a new all-in-one display designed to play vintage tapes and support outdated video connections. If you’re a retro gamer or just want a charming ’90s kitchen screen, you might want to hold off for now.
Introducing the RetroBox, this faux CRT aims to replicate the nostalgic look, feel, and functionality of those classic ’90s and early 2000s VHS combo units. However, it comes with a hefty price tag of $399, which might be a tough sell compared to the best retro console setups that work better with modern 4K TVs or monitors. Setting aside the steep cost, there’s a lot to unpack regarding the modern tech packed inside, especially since I already have some of the components lying around.
It’s important to note that the RetroBox is still in the early stages of development, and my insights are based on prototype footage shared by the startup. So far, the teasers showcase repurposed shells from original CRTs like RCA and Toshiba, housing a 4:3-inch LCD display, a generic HDMI/VGA controller board, and a scanline generator similar to the one I use with my HDMI-modded N64 for added display effects.
On the VHS front, RetroBox claims to be developing a “fully functional and redesigned VCR” in collaboration with electrical and mechanical engineers. This suggests they are working on the necessary mechanisms—motors, rollers, and magnetic heads—to read tape, which is quite impressive if they pull it off.
Currently, the RetroBox prototypes feel more like a proof of concept, and I hope that’s the case given the price. The visible LCD screen and controller board in one of the clips cost around $73 on Aliexpress, while the scanline generator is priced at $35.99 on Amazon. Technically, you could buy these parts and try to create your own faux VHS combo if you have a 10-inch shell lying around, which is why I’m hoping the final product will include more custom components.
The specs listed on the RetroBox website raise some questions. For instance, the native resolution options are 240p and 480i, reminiscent of original CRT specs rather than modern LCD standards. The listing also mentions “NTSC” formatting, which could lead to compatibility issues with PAL or SECAM consoles and tapes, although using modern components should ideally ensure universal color compatibility.
I genuinely hope the RetroBox evolves into a solid faux alternative that keeps the CRT VHS combo dream alive. As someone who repairs old tube sets in my spare time, I know firsthand that original displays have a limited lifespan. Plus, smaller 10-inch models with built-in VCRs are becoming increasingly pricey, though they still don’t quite match this remake’s asking price.
If the RetroBox ends up resembling the prototype, I might have to look for other options for retro gaming. So far, the marketing seems to target those seeking straightforward VHS playback, which it should manage just fine in its current form. However, if you’ve ever tried connecting a retro console to a modern TV or monitor, you know that adapters and upscalers can introduce issues like input lag and blurry pixels, which is why many enthusiasts stick with old tube sets.
On the bright side, the RetroBox comes in fun colors, which might attract those who prioritize aesthetics over specs. They even mention that if you don’t see the color you want, they’ll “make it happen,” suggesting they’re ready to produce a variety of options. If this CRT revival takes off, I’ll be eager to test it with every console imaginable, but I’m particularly curious to see if this startup can successfully bring VCR mechanism manufacturing back to life.
