Note: Version 2 runout sale is now on! Version 3 of the RF replacement is coming soon. It will feature improved s-video output along with selectable s-video filters. Composite video performance will be roughly the same as V2.

The RF modulator in the C64 and C128 handles amplification and filtering for all video signals (including the ones on the AV DIN connector). Unfortunately it does a very poor job and this is even more apparent with modern displays and upscalers, even CRTs with their inherent softening can reveal issues with the original RF modulator. One way to signifcantly improve the video output is to replace the RF modulator with a more modern and finely tuned solution, and why not add a few quality of life features while were at it.

This is an RF modulator replacement (RF delete) for the shortboard Commodore 64 ASSY 250469 and Commodore 128.

Feature summary

• Superior video output compared to the original RF modulator
• Direct S-Video output for S-Video capable displays and upscalers
• Adjustable luma:sync ratio (contrast control)
• Signal passthrough to the C64/128 AV DIN - for those who prefer to use the standard DIN connector
• 3.5mm stereo audio output with the left channel dedicated to SID audio, and right channel selectable between SID audio (dual mono), composite video, and external (for dual SID setups, LumaCode, etc.)
• Optional C128 jailbar filter

Install

Remove the original RF modulator, there are 4 tabs that need to be straightened and 8 signal connections to be desoldered - be very careful with these as they are easily damaged if not desoldered properly!

Insert the RF replacement into the mainboard (do not solder it in yet) and then the mainboard into the case. The rear ports should line up correctly in the case with no adjustment required. Once you have confirmed the alignment is correct, remove the mainbaord and proceed with soldering the ground posts and signal connections.

Setup

Right Channel Switch

Set the selector switch to the desired "right channel" output. A 3.5mm to 2x RCA cable or splitter is recommended

CVBS: Left channel is SID audio, right channel is composite video.

MONO: Both left and right channels are SID audio.

EXTIN: Left channel is SID audio, right channel will be whatever is connected to the "input" pin nearby. The most common use for this would be dual SID setups or LumaCode. For example if used with Lumacode, LUM from the VIC-II-dizer would connect to "input", and GND to "ground".

Remember audio signals can be safely spilt, but not video signals. You can for example use the 3.5mm jack for composite video on the right channel, and split the left channel audio into left and right (dual mono).

The board can also safely drive both composite and S-Video outputs at the same time but not dual S-Video or dual composite (using both the RF replacement output and C64/128 DIN connector). In most cases you shouldn't need to use the C64/128 DIN connector, but all the standard video and audio signals will still be available there if required.

Contrast fine tune

Commodore used a fixed value resistor for all RF modulators which doesn't take into account variances in the video output of each and every VIC-II. I've added this option so the output can be tailored for your VIC-II and display combination.

Set the potentiometer to the mid position and power on the C64/128. Change the foreground colour to white: POKE53281,1 and the border colour to light grey: POKE53280,15

Adjust the potentiometer to obtain the ideal contrast. Too low and the white will appear light grey, too high will cause white to bloom and text will appear to shrink. This adjustment may also have an effect on jailbars if present in the borders, so it is recommended to play around until you find a sweet spot. Note this adjustment may have little to no effect depending on your display or upscaler - in which case it is recommended just to leave the trimpot at its mid position.

C128 jailbar filter

This is a low pass filter designed to lessen the jailbar effect on Commodore 128 machines (or C64 if you have bad jailbars). A 1nF ceramic capacitor (included) can be added at C1 but it is recommended to experiment with this before soldering it into place.

With the 128 powered on (mind the nearby PSU in the DCR version), insert the capacitor so the legs touch both holes of C1 without touching the mainboard underneath. You should observe a noticeable reduction in jailbars with the capacitor inserted, but this comes at the expense of overall sharpness. It is recommended to load up your favourite program and see which look you prefer. Personally I prefer to leave it out but you do you.

Marvel at the beauty of your Commodore! Force your friends, relatives, and random people on the internet to do the same.

All boards are hand assembled and tested before shipping. As these are hand soldered, flux residue is included with every board at no additional charge ;-)