A new (old) Nintendo console! - TinyNES

**The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) Upgrading Kit: A Comprehensive Review**

In this article, we will delve into the world of retro gaming and explore the NES upgrading kit, specifically focusing on its capabilities and limitations. This kit is designed to upgrade the original NES console with modern components, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy improved picture quality and reduced composite artifacts.

**The Kit's Performance**

When connected to a CRT TV, the kit produces a clean and composite output, with minimal artifacts visible. The floor of the screen appears not quite where it should be, but this is considered normal behavior for this game. In contrast to other retro consoles, such as Mega Man, which exhibited more pronounced fringing, the NES kit's picture quality is noticeably better.

**Sound Quality**

The sound output from the kit is excellent, with crisp and clear audio that rivals original hardware. This is a significant improvement over the composite artifacts that plagued some games on older consoles.

**Comparison to Original Hardware**

In comparison to the original NES console, the kit produces significantly fewer composite artifacts, making it a notable upgrade for enthusiasts who want to reduce these issues. However, it's worth noting that the kit's performance may vary depending on the specific game being played.

**The Kit's Design and Build Quality**

The kit is designed with a focus on ease of use and minimalism. The components are well-packaged and include a convenient allen wrench for disassembling the console. The design also allows for easy replacement of individual components, such as the picture processing unit (PPU) or CPU.

**Component Layout and Socketing**

The kit includes the original NES PPU and CPU, which are socketed to allow for easy replacement with modern alternatives. This feature makes it possible to upgrade the console with improved hardware, reducing composite artifacts and enhancing overall performance.

**Power Supply and Compatibility**

The kit is powered by a USB Type-C adapter, which is a convenient and modern alternative to the original NES's AC power supply. However, this may be a concern for users who prefer traditional power sources or require more than 5V from their adapters.

**Practicality and Value**

While the kit offers significant improvements over original hardware, its value is limited by its complexity and cost. For enthusiasts looking for a DIY project, the kit may be an attractive option, but for those seeking a hassle-free experience, it may not be the best choice.

**Recommendation**

Overall, we recommend the NES upgrading kit to hobbyists and enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering with retro consoles. However, due to its high cost and complexity, we would advise against purchasing it for practical use. Instead, consider alternative solutions, such as a Raspberry Pi or Mister setup, which offer similar performance at a lower price point.

**Conclusion**

The NES upgrading kit is an interesting project that offers enthusiasts the opportunity to improve their retro gaming experience. While it excels in picture quality and sound output, its high cost and complexity make it less practical for everyday use.