AV overview
Audio/Video Overview
The NES was designed for the televisions of its era, so its stock output is modest by modern standards. A range of modifications and adapters can dramatically improve picture quality on contemporary displays. This page summarizes the common options.
| Method | Quality | Notes |
| RF | Lowest | Single coaxial signal; noisy and soft. Front-loader default for some sets. |
| Composite | Baseline | Stock on the standard console. Simple, single yellow video jack. |
| S-Video | Improved | Requires an internal mod; separates luma and chroma for a sharper image. |
| RGB (NESRGB) | Best analog | Add-on board taps the PPU for clean component or SCART-grade output. |
| HDMI | Digital | Internal kit or external upscaler; convenient for modern flat panels. |
Choosing an approach
If you only need a usable picture on an old CRT, the stock composite output is fine. For a noticeably crisper image without opening the console, an external upscaler that takes composite or S-Video is the least invasive upgrade. For the cleanest possible result, an internal RGB board feeding a quality scaler or display is the enthusiast standard.
Expansion audio
Famicom games with expansion sound chips need an extra mod to mix that audio back in. See the EXP audio page for details, including the EXP9-SND setting on the N8 Pro.