TINK-4K Announced: Here’s What You Need To Know

Mike Chi has done it again... but it'll cost ya!

As the world of gaming technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, it's time we discuss the much-anticipated TINK-4K, slated for release in late 2023. This comprehensive guide provides a sneak-peek into what the TINK-4K holds for you.

Launch and Pricing

While the precise price remains under wraps as the sourcing of FPGA is still underway, per creator Mike Chi, you should set aside around $1,000 for your budget. However, expect a pleasant surprise when the final price is unveiled.

Sales updates will be posted on the RetroTINK website and Twitter, with units being sold and shipped directly from the inventory. No pre-orders will be entertained.

Supported Inputs

The RT4K has been meticulously designed to accommodate virtually all retro video sources. It features component, HD-15 (VGA), and HDMI inputs, along with a TOSLINK receiver for optical audio at the rear. Additionally, a SCART port can be found on the side, while a hidden sliding door reveals S-video and composite jack at the front.

The versatility of the RT4K inputs allows both HD-15 and SCART to accept any analog format (excluding RGBHV for SCART), thus optimizing your switching setup. Unique console sources like PCs and arcade boards can also be easily connected, with inbuilt settings for standard consumer video and retro PCs. The HDMI inputs can practically accept any custom resolution and frame rate within the maximum bandwidth of the receiver.

Output Features

The RT4K primarily outputs 4K60 (3840 x 2160, 60 Hz), with standard built-in modes including 1080p, 1440p, and 480p. Custom resolutions can be easily obtained by adding a modeline text file to the SD card. The RT4K HDMI 2.0 transmitter also supports high frame rate outputs for advanced users.

Scaling

The RT4K's scaling engine allows users to scale/crop their source to individual specifications. You can adjust the aspect ratio correction, filtering mode, or define the exact pixel numbers in a free-scaling mode. Even non-integer scales can maintain a crisp look, thanks to bilinear sharp filtering. Furthermore, the RT4K can automatically perform the necessary PAR transforms to achieve optimal sampling at perfect 4:3 aspect ratios.

CRT and LCD Effects

The TINK-4K comes with advanced CRT simulation options, including customizable scanlines, phosphor masks, and beam mis-convergence. For HDR OLED users, the RT4K can output true, Rec. 709 to Rec. 2020 color-corrected HDR output.

Profiles

With the RT4K, you can save, download, and share up to 65,536 profiles onto the SD card. Profiles can be set to load automatically or assigned to a remote control button for quick-access.

SCART Connectivity

In response to concerns over "loose" SCART connections, the RT4K comes with PCB-mounted threaded screw holes flanking the SCART connector. This will allow secure connections akin to HD-15 connectors.

Remote Control

The RT4K will include a premium, fully custom remote that allows quick access to key settings.

Compatibility and Support

The RT4K works well with MiSTer and Analogue, although the latter might require more adjustment. TINK-5X will continue to be supported despite the RT4K launch.

Additional Features

The TINK-4K case is customizable, offering scope for community-created replacement parts for the top logo insert and the front cap and sliding door.

As the gaming industry awaits the TINK-4K's release, this upcoming addition to the RetroTINK family is gearing up to revolutionize the gaming experience. With its expansive range of features and improvements, the TINK-4K promises to be a game-changer.

~Smash