You’ve got two common paths, depending on your setup:

• Composite (RCA) to HDMI converter: Use this if your console has the yellow/red/white AV cable. It takes analog AV in and sends digital HDMI out.
• Console-to-HDMI adapter: Some plug directly into the console’s AV port and output HDMI, simplifying cabling.

Before you buy, consider:

• Direction: You want AV-to-HDMI (not HDMI-to-AV).
• Features: Look for 720p/1080p scaling, a 4:3/16:9 switch, and PAL/NTSC support if needed.
• Power: Many require USB power; check what’s included.

Review the item’s specs and customer Q&A on the product page to confirm compatibility with your console and TV.

Here’s a quick, general setup that can help:

1. Power off your TV and console.
2. Match colors: Plug the yellow (video) and red/white (audio) cables from the console into the converter’s AV inputs.
3. Connect HDMI from the converter to a TV HDMI port.
4. Provide power: Plug the converter’s USB cable into a TV USB port or a USB power adapter.
5. Set switches: Choose 720p or 1080p, and select 4:3 or 16:9 as you prefer.
6. Select input: Turn on devices and switch the TV to the correct HDMI input.

If you see “No Signal,” reseat cables, try a different HDMI port, or use another USB power source. Results may vary by TV and converter.

These devices can cleanly display older signals on modern TVs, but they can’t add detail that wasn’t in the original image.

• Upscaling: Many output 720p or 1080p. This can reduce analog noise and flicker, though sharpness varies by TV.
• Aspect ratio: Using the 4:3 option helps avoid stretching; 16:9 fills the screen but may distort.
• Signal options: Some converters include S-Video input, which can look a bit cleaner on supported consoles.
• Lag: Basic converters typically add minimal delay, but enabling your TV’s “Game Mode” can help. Cable length and TV processing also matter.

Overall results can differ by hardware and settings.

It depends on which direction you’re converting:

• Old console to modern TV: You’ll typically need RCA (composite) to HDMI or a console-to-HDMI adapter. That means analog AV in, HDMI out.
• New device to older TV: That’s the opposite—HDMI to RCA—which won’t help for connecting a retro console to an HDMI-only TV.

Check the listing for “Input: AV/Composite (CVBS)” and “Output: HDMI.” Some options plug directly into the console’s AV port and output HDMI. Confirm power requirements (many use USB) and features like resolution and aspect switches before purchasing.

A few quick checks can help isolate audio issues:

• Cable placement: Ensure the red/white audio plugs are fully inserted into the converter’s matching inputs.
• Power: Many converters need USB power for audio to pass. Try a different USB power source if needed.
• TV settings: Select the correct HDMI input and raise the volume. Some TVs have per-input audio options.
• Alternate output: If the converter offers a 3.5 mm audio jack, test headphones or speakers there.
• Switches: Try toggling the 720p/1080p or PAL/NTSC switch if available.
• Cables: Test another HDMI cable or inspect the console’s AV cable for wear.

Outcomes can vary by TV and converter model.