Connecting the Sega Mega Drive to a modern TV

The Sega Mega Drive produces an excellent RGB signal — one of the sharpest of its generation. The only problem: modern TVs no longer speak that language. Fortunately there are several good solutions.

What you need {#what-you-need}

Option A — SCART RGB (easy, broadly compatible)

SCART RGB cable for Mega Drive (note: Mega Drive 1 and 2 have different connectors)
SCART input on your TV or a SCART-to-HDMI converter

Option B — HDMI adapter (plug-and-play)

Mega Drive HDMI adapter (several brands available)
Plugs directly into the AV port of the Mega Drive

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Watch out: connector differs by model

The Mega Drive 1 has a 9-pin DIN connector for audio/video. The Mega Drive 2 has a small cinch connector (similar to SNES/PS1). Check your model before ordering a cable.

Connecting via SCART

Connect the SCART RGB cable to the AV output of your Mega Drive
Connect the SCART end to the SCART input on your TV
Select the correct AV input on your TV and turn on the Mega Drive

No SCART input? Use a SCART-to-HDMI converter and connect that via HDMI to your TV.

Connecting via HDMI adapter

Connect the HDMI adapter to the AV output of the Mega Drive
Connect an HDMI cable to your TV
Select the HDMI input on your TV and turn on the Mega Drive

Tip: Mega Drive 2 for HDMI adapters

Most plug-and-play HDMI adapters are designed for the Mega Drive 2 connector. Have a Mega Drive 1? Check which adapters are compatible, or use a SCART solution instead.

Audio

The Mega Drive has separate audio output via the SCART cable or through the stereo output on the front (Mega Drive 1) or back (Mega Drive 2). Some HDMI adapters also carry audio — check this at purchase.

Done

With a good SCART RGB cable or an HDMI adapter you’ll immediately see how sharp the Mega Drive’s graphics actually are. The difference compared to a composite connection is enormous — colours are more intense and edges are crisp.

Questions or doubts? You’re not the first. We’re happy to help you through it.