I bought this scan converter at Radio Shack for $89 and wanted to get some opinions and ask some questions. This is a newer updated model than the ultimate xp pro. I talked to Grandtec and they said this unit had an updated chipset in it for increased clarity. I can order ultimate xp pro for $63 shipped from Amazon. I tried this unit before and thought it did a pretty good job. I'm not so convinced there is any improvement with this new model.
I personally think this unit is a significant improvement over s-video with better color convergence that gives the picture just enough improvement in focus as to not have an irritating glare. I almost feel like I'm playing a real arcade monitor. I have heard some say that these Grandtec units use frame buffer and have trouble keeping up with screen refreshes or something. I do notice sync problems on some Mame games but I think it's just because it is more noticeable on a large screen. Mame doesn't sync perfectly for me even with triple buffer anyway.
Would I be better off to get an ATi card with adapter which can be had for the same price, although then I would be confined to hooking one computer up to play MAME. Also there is the issue of the ease of use of the "PC to Component" with its remote for screen size and tweaks galore. I understand the Ati route requires a lot more to get Mame setup. One more thing I noticed a lot of people seem to think the audio Authority component converter is better. It is roughly $40 dollars more and I have read that it doesn't have all the convenient on-screen-menu's that the Grandtec offers, but some think the picture clarity is better on the AA.
I appreciate any input on this as I still have my receipt to return the Grandtec unit for a refund to put toward something else. Advice appreciated