RetroTINK 5x Firmware v4.0 Boosts CRT Mask Emulation
Mike Chi, the creator behind the widely adopted RetroTINK line of video upscalers, has just released firmware v4.0 for the RetroTINK 5x, a significant update that focuses heavily on advanced CRT mask emulation and backports core processing from the higher-end RT4K unit. This isn't just a minor patch; it represents a dedicated branch of the firmware, specifically designed for enthusiasts chasing the most authentic CRT display effects on their modern flat-panel screens.
RetroRGB.com reports that this v4.0 firmware is considered a specialised branch from the v3.x series. It is not intended as a direct replacement for those who primarily use the 5x for 480i sources without needing CRT mask simulation. For those users, the v3.97 firmware, which includes edge interpolated Motion Adaptive Deinterlacing (MADI), might still be the preferred option. The good news is that there is no firmware locking; users can freely switch between versions without voiding their warranty, making experimentation straightforward.
Hardware Considerations and Limitations
Before flashing, it is important to note some hardware specific limitations. Units sold before mid-2022, designated as Revision B, may exhibit degraded shadow mask quality. Furthermore, the very first launch units, Revision A, might not maintain stability when outputting resolutions above 1080p until the Gen Lock code receives further refinement. This Gen Lock code helps synchronise the output signal with the display's refresh rate.
Thankfully, all RetroTINK 5x units sold after mid-2022 are Revision C hardware. These newer units come with no such limitations and offer full RGB 4:4:4 shadow mask support right out of the box. On the software side, this v4.0 firmware currently omits the fully-powered MADI found in v3.97 and also drops Inverse Telecine, a process used to reconstruct progressive frames from interlaced video that originated from film.
The RT4K Pipeline Comes to 5x
The real story here is the substantial backporting of the RT4K's processing pipeline. The RetroTINK 5x now uses the same 12bpc RGB 4:4:4 Linear Light pipeline as its more powerful sibling. This means the 5x can now handle colour information with 12 bits per channel for red, green, and blue, processed in a linear light space, leading to far greater colour accuracy and depth. It also incorporates real Rec. 2020 HDR10 processing, allowing for brighter, more colour-correct CRT effects that surpass the older “injection” method.
The scanline engine in the RetroTINK 5x has also seen significant upgrades. It now supports energy normalizing scanlines, which adjust the brightness of scanlines to maintain a consistent overall image luminosity, and RGB CRT masks for a more authentic visual presentation. Additionally, new “Quasi-4K” modes are available. These modes send resolutions with a 4K width, specifically 3840 pixels, but retain a 1080p height, or 960 lines. This allows compatible televisions to receive CRT masks with 4K detail while the TV handles the soft interpolation of vertical scanlines, creating a detailed yet smooth image.
The Path Ahead for Display Accuracy
What this hints at, for the scene, is a clear direction from Mike Chi to push the boundaries of display accuracy, particularly for those who cherish the authentic CRT aesthetic on modern flat panels. The integration of advanced colour processing and mask emulation from the RT4K into the 5x shows a commitment to delivering high-fidelity retro experiences across his product line. This firmware update solidifies the RetroTINK 5x's position as a top-tier upscaler for enthusiasts who prioritise visual authenticity.
This specialised firmware branch suggests that future developments might continue to cater to specific user needs, whether that is ultimate CRT mask fidelity or optimal deinterlacing for video sources. It is a welcome move for a community that values precision in its retro gaming setups.
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Originally published by RetroRGB. Read original article.