I know i won't be able to use my Gamecube Component cable when the Wii hits the store :( so i'm wondering if the Wii's version will be available at launch i've googled but no solid answer has come up not even a rumor :mad: so i was wondering if anyone here has heard *anything* on it

Has it been confirmed one way or another if the "A/V"cable that is included does or does not have the component connections as well as composite/s-vid/audio?

the cable provided is the standard composite cable yellow red and white it's at nintendo what's included in the retail box but nothing about the component cable.

No word on whether Nintendo's component cable will be avail on launch yet. EB/Gamestop's site has a Mad Catz Wii Component cable listed as shipping on 12/1 for $60.

I know i won't be able to use my Gamecube Component cable when the Wii hits the store :( so i'm wondering if the Wii's version will be available at launch i've googled but no solid answer has come up not even a rumor :mad: so i was wondering if anyone here has heard *anything* on it

How do you know you won't be able to us the Gamecube Component cable for the Wii? Has that been confirmed by Nintendo anywhere?

How do you know you won't be able to us the Gamecube Component cable for the Wii? Has that been confirmed by Nintendo anywhere?
From what i've gathered on this forum, the Gamecubes component cable does not have audio output and relied on the 2nd A/V ports to get audio out. Since the Wii will only have a single port, it's unlikely that the gamecube component cable will work.

Here's a picture of the back of the Wii. Only 1 port for sound and video.

http://media.wii.ign.com/articles/733/733464/img_3926686.html

In the Cnet article below, it says that, "the system would include an all-in-one composite-component cable much like the one included with the premium Xbox 360".

http://reviews.cnet.com/4531-10921_7-6637970.html?tag=cnetfd.mt

Thoughts?

And it says only composite here http://gonintendo.com/?p=5655

This is from IGN's Wii FAQ. http://wii.ign.com/articles/733/733464p6.html


Q: Wii component cables are not included in the box. But will they be available to buy when the system launches?

A: Yes. Although Nintendo has not yet divulged details on the price of the separately sold Wii component cables, the 480p compliant solution will be available at launch. Third party manufacturers are already advertising Wii component cables on various online videogame retail outlets. Meanwhile, just about every Wii game in development supports 480p and 16:9 widescreen modes, which makes a good case for Nintendo to ready the component cables for launch.

I think the short answer is it's still up in the air at this point. Considering even Nintendo reps were contradicting themselves on issues such as region encoding, it's no surprise there's conflicting info out there. I'm still hoping for an included component cable, but at the very least, it would be nice to be able to purchase it at retail instead of having to order it directly from Nintendo.

the AV port is said to support composite, s-video, and component connections. along with the fact that it doesnt look to conform to any previous console port, this leads me to believe that it is a new connection which only provides analog connections (much like the ps2 av port). hopefully, if the included cable has all the contacts on the plug end available, it would not be difficult to hack a set of components/s-video onto it.

if the DAC circuitry is internalized but resembles the DAC in the GC component cable, we could possibly even hack RGB,VGA, and digital audio output.

the Wii has a different AV connector than the NGC ( i have both right beside me as i type this).

the Wii has a different AV connector than the NGC ( i have both right beside me as i type this).

huh. Do you mind posting a pic?

bartender is apparently a game dev and says he has access to dev units. what i would like to know is what kind of cables are they hooked up with and what the contacts at the plug end look like..

bartender is apparently a game dev and says he has access to dev units. what i would like to know is what kind of cables are they hooked up with and what the contacts at the plug end look like..

I have both component and composite cables for the dev unit. I cant post pics, sorry.

the side that goes into the dev unit is a blade style connector similar to most other consoles (close to the ps2/ps3 type)

I have both component and composite cables for the dev unit.

Two separate cables or both-in-one?

two seperate.

... Which (likely) means that Nintendo will be shipping the composite cable, and not the component cable. We know they're not going to include both cables, so the only hope was that the single cable would support both. And unless the developers are getting radically different cables (which seems unlikely), we're out of luck. Sigh.

... Which (likely) means that Nintendo will be shipping the composite cable, and not the component cable. We know they're not going to include both cables, so the only hope was that the single cable would support both. And unless the developers are getting radically different cables (which seems unlikely), we're out of luck. Sigh.

Certainly looks that way. Oh well. Wonder how much they'll sell for?

Do we know if the componant cable will be available at launch?

Do we know if the componant cable will be available at launch?

From the IGN Wii FAQ:

Q: Wii component cables are not included in the box. But will they be available to buy when the system launches?

A: Yes. Although Nintendo has not yet divulged details on the price of the separately sold Wii component cables, the 480p compliant solution will be available at launch. Third party manufacturers are already advertising Wii component cables on various online videogame retail outlets. Meanwhile, just about every Wii game in development supports 480p and 16:9 widescreen modes, which makes a good case for Nintendo to ready the component cables for launch.

Q: Do GameCube component cables work with Wii?

A: No. Wii features a new proprietary plug that simultaneously handles both component and audio output. GCN component cables are incompatible with the device, but even if they were gamers who used them would lose the ability to output audio through Wii because GCN component cables do not feature left/right audio.

Thanks, that makes me feel better.:) Componant looks much better than s-video on my projector...

Yeah for a single cable at least!!!

I don't know why it makes you feel better; they're still going to gouge us for something which really should be included in the box. You would think if they're going to make us buy an aftermarket cable, they could at least put a digital audio output on it (either optical or coaxial) for stereo PCM, but again, that's apparently asking too much. Grrr.

I don't know why it makes you feel better; they're still going to gouge us for something which really should be included in the box. You would think if they're going to make us buy an aftermarket cable, they could at least put a digital audio output on it (either optical or coaxial) for stereo PCM, but again, that's apparently asking too much. Grrr.

If they put a digital audio output on the Wii, then people here would just bitch about Nintendo trying to gouge you for money on that too. :rolleyes:

If they put a digital audio output on the Wii, then people here would just bitch about Nintendo trying to gouge you for money on that too. :rolleyes:

Yeah, why can't Nintendo be like Sony and include everything in the box from the get-go...



...for $600? :rolleyes:

Composite is a slap in the face in this age. BUt since Wii is profitable out of the box, why not make even more with cables?

Composite is a slap in the face in this age. BUt since Wii is profitable out of the box, why not make even more with cables?

I feel your pain! However, look at it from Nintendo's perspective -- in addition to cutting cost they want the Wii to be as simple as possible to set up.

We care about composite cables, that's why we come to this forum. But at least 90% of the people out there really don't care about composite or even s-video, and adding multiple cables or a universal cable adds a touch of confusion and possible mix-up to the initial setup.

The composite cable will work on just about every TV except very old ones. If component is important to you (as it should be to everyone on this forum), they have a solution available at a price. It's up to you to decide price versus reward.

I feel your pain! However, look at it from Nintendo's perspective -- in addition to cutting cost they want the Wii to be as simple as possible to set up.

We care about composite cables, that's why we come to this forum. But at least 90% of the people out there really don't care about composite or even s-video, and adding multiple cables or a universal cable adds a touch of confusion and possible mix-up to the initial setup.

The composite cable will work on just about every TV except very old ones. If component is important to you (as it should be to everyone on this forum), they have a solution available at a price. It's up to you to decide price versus reward.


Well said.

all that is fine and true if the system doesn't tout the fact that it finally has better support for widescreen capability and will focus on 480p games.

Along with using the Wii controller, that's one of the main selling points for the Wii version of Zelda.

Yet, out of the box, you can't enjoy those features. It's just a matter of convenience for your consumers.

If Microsoft can produce a quality cable with both composite and component connections to package standard with its console, Nintendo can as well...and not charge us 60 bucks to buy the extra cable or not produce enough to satisfy demand.

If Microsoft can produce a quality cable with both composite and component connections to package standard with its console, Nintendo can as well...and not charge us 60 bucks to buy the extra cable or not produce enough to satisfy demand.

First off, the component cables only come with the premium XBOX 360, not the Core. So there's nothing standard about them. Purchasing them separately costs $40.

Second, we don't know what Nintendo is charging for component cables on the Wii. The component cables on the Gamecube costs $30 and those cables had a DAC built into them. For all we know, the Wii will will have a DAC in the console itself, causing the component cables to sell for less money.

Why not actually try waiting for Nintendo to release this information before jumping to conclusions?

Gai,

love your sig!

:)

(picking up from Jean's post)

...and third: Nintendo is not touting widescreen and 480p support -- we are.

If you head to Nintendo's official Wii hardware page (http://wii.nintendo.com/hardware.html) you will notice there's no mention of widescreen and/or 480p.
They do mention it has a "compact design that makes it a natural addition to any television setup".

(picking up from Jean's post)

...and third: Nintendo is not touting widescreen and 480p support -- we are.

If you head to Nintendo's official Wii hardware page (http://wii.nintendo.com/hardware.html) you will notice there's no mention of widescreen and/or 480p.
They do mention it has a "compact design that makes it a natural addition to any television setup".

I'm still keeping my fingers crossed for a surprise announcement at launch that the 480p limitation was just a joke.

i wish they would include it out of the box 49.99 is a lot

I'm still keeping my fingers crossed for a surprise announcement at launch that the 480p limitation was just a joke.

At least you're not holding your breath.... ;)

This is the story of "the little console that couldn't". You know, it's supposed to the story of an inexpensive console which overcomes great odds and handicaps in order to triumph over the industry. But somehow things have gone awry, and areas that Nintendo was deficient in last generation (e.g. lack of Dolby Digital) continue to haunt it during this generation.

Ahh, well, I guess we're hoping for small improvements along with the new control scheme. Just please tell me that there's a control panel setting or option for progressive scan, so that each and every game doesn't boot up and ask "Run in progressive scan mode?" every single time it's booted up.

Slordak,

areas that Nintendo was deficient in last generation (e.g. lack of Dolby Digital) continue to haunt it during this generation.[/QUOTE]

Might I ask a question: Did Legend of Zelda: Windwaker, Super Paper Mario, F-Zero GX, Sper Mario Sunshine, Super Monkey Ball or Viewtiful Joe, etc. diminish the experience because they were not in Dolby Digital?

I find the Dolby Pro Logic II encoding to be just as effective as Dolby Digital...When used with a Pro Logic II or Pro Logic IIx decoder. Of course if you don't have those latest generation of decoding...should anyone be complaining about a lack of technology on Nintendo's behalf?

I'm not happy with the fact that they are not including the component cables. But I'm not surprised that they didn't because this clearly isn't a HD console, so most will not have need to utilize them for the SD sets they plan on hooking it up to. The same as the GC. So few did they expect to even buy or utilize the component cables, they didn't even bother to make them available in local stores.

I just hope they don't do that again with the Wii because I really hated the fact that I have to go online and go through the process of providing my credit card number online.

Might I ask a question: Did Legend of Zelda: Windwaker, Super Paper Mario, F-Zero GX, Sper Mario Sunshine, Super Monkey Ball or Viewtiful Joe, etc. diminish the experience because they were not in Dolby Digital?

I find the Dolby Pro Logic II encoding to be just as effective as Dolby Digital...When used with a Pro Logic II or Pro Logic IIx decoder. Of course if you don't have those latest generation of decoding...should anyone be complaining about a lack of technology on Nintendo's behalf?

I've never played a Gamecube before, but I would say that, wouldn't you enjoy those games more if they were in Dolby Digital? I've played PS2 games with Pro Logic II and Xbox games with Dolby Digital and I've always enjoyed the audio out of the Xbox more. It's just not as discrete with Pro Logic II.

I've never played a Gamecube before, but I would say that, wouldn't you enjoy those games more if they were in Dolby Digital? I've played PS2 games with Pro Logic II and Xbox games with Dolby Digital and I've always enjoyed the audio out of the Xbox more. It's just not as discrete with Pro Logic II.

People will always enjoy something more when its of higher quality. There's no question about it. But, the point is that these things are not required to enjoy a game. High Definition and Dolby Digital, these are enhancements to the gaming experience. They do make the gaming experience more enjoyable, but they build off what is hopefully an already solid foundation with a game being good.

We see people refusing to buy the Wii because it doesn't support HD or 5.1 which I think is silly because these people are missing the whole point of playing a game, which is to have fun. HD or 5.1 doesn't create fun, it enhances it. I realize this board is all about high fidelity audio and video, but its also about games as well. Games are first and foremost about fun and its sad to see that a lot of people don't get that.

I've never played a Gamecube before, but I would say that, wouldn't you enjoy those games more if they were in Dolby Digital? I've played PS2 games with Pro Logic II and Xbox games with Dolby Digital and I've always enjoyed the audio out of the Xbox more. It's just not as discrete with Pro Logic II.

You should grab a Gamecube now that they are only 99 bucks and try one of the Star Wars games from Factor-5...Play it decoding the audio in Pro-Logic IIx, then tell me that Dolby Digital is a necessary evil for gaming... ;)

Or if you are against 'old' tech, grab a Wii (backwards compatible with the Cube) and run with that...If you don't have a scream of a time playing Super Mario Galaxy (yes I have played it)...then...well...I don't know what to say... :D

Don't get me wrong, I own all consoles and portables released in the last fifteen years...and I still have most of them all hooked up...I just want to have fun...regardless of the audio... or video...

To return to the original concept of this thread...I wish Nintendo would include a cable similar to the Xbox 360 premium pack-in AV cable...That would be nice! :D

I just want to have fun...regardless of the audio... or video...

Segaboy: I agree with you 100%!

However, remember the forum you are posting in. ;)

I'm still keeping my fingers crossed for a surprise announcement at launch that the 480p limitation was just a joke.


For what it's worth, there is a review on Yahoo for the Wii -- and while frankly there isn't anything new here, the question of 480p v. 720p goes unanswered. (http://tech.yahoo.com/blog/samiljan/13)

I couldn't find anyone at Nintendo to give me a straight answer on whether games would be in 480p (same quality as DVDs) or 720p (HD-quality). The component video output—there's no state-of-the-art HDMI—indicates it could go either way.

Is this something that's up in the air at all? Could my dream of a last minute announcement be a reality?

Unlikely, it probably be the engineering marvel of the decade if Nintendo crammed into the Wii's case something that would rival the graphics power of the Xbox360 when Microsoft has heat issues with said power in a much larger case.

You should grab a Gamecube now that they are only 99 bucks and try one of the Star Wars games from Factor-5...Play it decoding the audio in Pro-Logic IIx, then tell me that Dolby Digital is a necessary evil for gaming... ;)

Or if you are against 'old' tech, grab a Wii (backwards compatible with the Cube) and run with that...If you don't have a scream of a time playing Super Mario Galaxy (yes I have played it)...then...well...I don't know what to say... :D

Don't get me wrong, I own all consoles and portables released in the last fifteen years...and I still have most of them all hooked up...I just want to have fun...regardless of the audio... or video...

To return to the original concept of this thread...I wish Nintendo would include a cable similar to the Xbox 360 premium pack-in AV cable...That would be nice! :D

I don't play games much actually. I'm just saying, fun as the Cube is now, wouldn't it be better with 5.1 discrete audio? What's so evil about Dolby Digital?

Unlikely, it probably be the engineering marvel of the decade if Nintendo crammed into the Wii's case something that would rival the graphics power of the Xbox360 when Microsoft has heat issues with said power in a much larger case.

It would have been nice if they could have taken a small step up from the original xbox at least. It could be 720p but not have all the detail of a 360...right?

Oh well, just wishful thinking. If they have this up their sleeve they better have a new name hiding up there too.

For what it's worth, there is a review on Yahoo for the Wii -- and while frankly there isn't anything new here, the question of 480p v. 720p goes unanswered. (http://tech.yahoo.com/blog/samiljan/13)

Is this something that's up in the air at all? Could my dream of a last minute announcement be a reality?

No. The Yahoo writer was just too lazy to do his research. No HDTV. 480p widescreen is the best you're going to get, and I suspect that will be just fine. At least they're not being deceptive like Microsoft, saying the 360 is capable of running games in 1080p, when the system has no HDMI port to output that resolution.

The Yahoo writer also says the Wii will have a paltry launch lineup, when in fact Nintendo has confirmed 15 games for launch day and 30 titles in the initial launch window. That's a very healthy launch lineup.

Just ask Sony. ;)

At least they're not being deceptive like Microsoft, saying the 360 is capable of running games in 1080p, when the system has no HDMI port to output that resolution.

Why can't component or VGA output 1080p? :confused:

Off Topic: I believe it can do 1080p over vga, just not over component. But there's other boards for such talk. :)

Actually it can do 1080p over VGA or component. The rules that govern signal output over component don't apply to VGA, so MS is complying with those rules and not allowing DVD's to be upconverted over compoenent. But it will be able to output 1080p game content over component. So MS didn't deceive us. I think there's always a little confusion about a consoles capability when it first comes out. I believe I got what I paid for when I got the 360. And I'll get the same thing when I get the Wii. A console that is capable of outputting 480p games in widescreen.

I may be mistaken, but didn't Dolby Digital 5.1 come out before Dolby Pro Logic II? I know that regular Pro Logic was out before 5.1, but I think Pro Logic II came after Digital 5.1.

I believe so also, but what does this matter?

No word on whether Nintendo's component cable will be avail on launch yet. EB/Gamestop's site has a Mad Catz Wii Component cable listed as shipping on 12/1 for $60.


LOL, my goodness they don't waste time with the price gouging do they?

how is it that CABLES cost $60 these days? is copper and rubber sheething suddenly a scarce and expensive material? absolutely unbelievable

a cable like this costs a dollar or two at most to make, sickening

Well the price of copper has been skyrocketing for some time now.

LOL, my goodness they don't waste time with the price gouging do they?

how is it that CABLES cost $60 these days? is copper and rubber sheething suddenly a scarce and expensive material? absolutely unbelievable

a cable like this costs a dollar or two at most to make, sickening

Take note that those aren't Nintendo's first party cables.
Just to give some history, the cube's component cables costed $30 and those cables weren't just copper and rubber, but also had a DAC built into the connector.

Chances are the Wii console itself will have the DAC built into it, which could result in cheaper cables for the Wii.

Also, to give a little comparison, Microsoft sells first party component cables for the 360 for $40.

Also, to give a little comparison, Microsoft sells first party component cables for the 360 for $40.

The 360 Cables include a digital out port, as well as allow more than just 480P output.

It is odd that there is no price on first party cables a month and a half before release.

This is kinda ironic, my 6 year old receiver does not support Dolby Pro Logic II, but it does support Dolby Digital 5.1. So the older technology will work on a 360 or PS3, but not the wii. So I will need to upgrade my reciever in order to take avantage of the wii's surround sound.

Dolby Pro Logic II is definitely newer than Dolby Digital 5.1, but even though it's newer, it's still just a way to try to matrix surround sound information into a stereo signal. Dolby Digital provides substantially better channel separation, and a digital connection to the receiver maximizes overall audio quality.

People have argued above that Dolby Digital support isn't necessary to have a good gaming experience, and I would generally agree, but this doesn't mean that having this support wouldn't *enhance* the experience.

I just got confirmation from a friend of mine that manages a Gamestop that indeed, only 'standard AV' connectivity comes in the box. Also, he was not aware of receiving any component solution by launch but was expecting them at a later date. Of course I can't GUARANTEE this, but he generally knows what he's talking about...I'm bummed too!
-Trouble

Hopefully he's been fed bad info :)

I think we have a consensus now that indicates that component connectivity is not coming in the box with the Wii. No matter what folks may have been hoping for, Nintendo sees this primarily as a console for the 4x3 / 480i televisions owned by the masses.

The question is what will be available at launch in terms of component cable "accessories". I would find it very hard to believe that there wouldn't at least be a crummy Nyko or Madcatz (or such) cable available. This seems pretty fundamental to the success of the launch, and will make them a lot of money to boot.

I just got confirmation from a friend of mine that manages a Gamestop that indeed, only 'standard AV' connectivity comes in the box. Also, he was not aware of receiving any component solution by launch but was expecting them at a later date. Of course I can't GUARANTEE this, but he generally knows what he's talking about...I'm bummed too!
-Trouble

I'm sure your friend is a very nice person, but frankly, some of the most flagrant misinformation I've gotten in the last 3 weeks regarding the Wii and PS3 launch has spilled from the lips of GS managers. :rolleyes:

That said, I think it's pretty much a given at this point that there will be no component cable in the box. However, everything I've heard to this point has said Nintendo will have component cables available at launch. I guess we shall see. Considering it was just revealed that Nintendo could have a reported 11 million consoles ready before the end of the year, I think they've got production capacity to produce component cables to sell alongside them.

Hey what do I know? Since you're so informed then I guess he (and thusly myself) are likely wrong. I guess shoulda known better than to chime in on the console forums.
-Trouble

I think he's just saying that there's a lot of contradicting information flying around, and managers of stores aren't immune to spreading it just like the rest of us. A good buddy of mine in an EB/GS manager and he said a couple things that I was pretty sure were wrong, based on what I had read in some pretty decent articles (anandtech for example). It happens :)

I think part of the problem can be that GS managers and such receive the information from what *should* be reliable, official channels, but unfortunately the information isn't always reliable, nor appear to be correct once investigated. It's no fault of your friend.

Complaints about what the Wii cannot do should be tempered with Nintendo's history of making excellent quality, rock solid, durable and reliable hardware. Nintendo does not involve themselves in the "My hardware specs can beat up your hardware specs!" fight. They build gaming hardware for gaming first and foremost. They built the Wii as a console for everyone and so they kept the hardware costs down by buliding a safe console. The industry needs that because the 50% to 100% price increase that comes with every generation would eventually kill the industry.

If they tried to build a 720p box, it would be priced just as high as the other HD gaming boxes built by the other guys. Their compromise was to build the Wii to support widescreen and 480p. In order to keep the cost down they are not including cables that would not be used by the vast majority of the people buying the console. I have searched around a little and it sounds as if Nintendo plans to have the component cables available at launch. Those of us who have HD sets will probably have to drop another $30 or $40 on the OEM 480p cables but the millions who don't have HD sets will be spared the extra cost of Nintendo including an all purpose cable. Nintendo marches to the beat of their own drummer but they are not stupid and they do watch the industry. They will make sure component cables are there for those who want them at launch because they know the launch buzz could be killed if too many early adopters complained about how bad their next gen console looked on the same TV that made the XBOX 360 look so darn good.

Mad Catz and Gamestop are in cahoots to fleece HDTV owners for the component cables at a cost of $60 banking on the hope that no one will be able to find the Nintendo component cables at launch. I would be willing to bet that OEM component cables will be available at many retailers at launch but Gamestop's will have been mysteriously lost in transit. That will lead those buying their console at Gamestop who want the 480p cables to pay the ridiculous price for the questionable quality Mad Catz cables exclusive to Gamestop. I'm not slamming Gamestop, they are in business to make money so selling their partner brand at a ridiculous profit makes a lot more sense than having the superior quality, cheaper OEM cables readily available.

If they tried to build a 720p box, it would be priced just as high as the other HD gaming boxes built by the other guys.

Well we know thats not really the case. The GC had almost as much horsepower as the XBox and the Xbox has 45 720P games. Now the Wii has more horse power than the XBox so it should be more than capable of 720P.

Well we know thats not really the case. The GC had almost as much horsepower as the XBox and the Xbox has 45 720P games. Now the Wii has more horse power than the XBox so it should be more than capable of 720P.

There must be a reason...Size,cost,heat, something. If there was no reason for not including 720p, then it would be there, wouldn't it? No manufacturer would intentionally leave a feature like 720p off their console unless they had a good reason to do so.

There must be a reason...Size,cost,heat, something. If there was no reason for not including 720p, then it would be there, wouldn't it? No manufacturer would intentionally leave a feature like 720p off their console unless they had a good reason to do so.

Yes, the reason they didn't want to implement HD is because it requires horse power just to render something in HD. Nintendo would rather the horse power be spent on the visuals of the game rather than using it to just bump up the rendering resolution. Most XBOX owners can attest that the games that were in 720p didn't look any more impressive than games like Ninja Gaiden or Chronicles of Riddick in 480p.

If they tried to build a 720p box, it would be priced just as high as the other HD gaming boxes built by the other guys. Their compromise was to build the Wii to support widescreen and 480p. In order to keep the cost down they are not including cables that would not be used by the vast majority of the people buying the console. I have searched around a little and it sounds as if Nintendo plans to have the component cables available at launch. Those of us who have HD sets will probably have to drop another $30 or $40 on the OEM 480p cables but the millions who don't have HD sets will be spared the extra cost of Nintendo including an all purpose cable. .

you know what would be really cool? if the Wii component cable is the same as the component cable for Game Cube. of course, even as i type this, i realize that if this were the case, Nintendo probably wouldnt have stopped manufacturing/selling the gamecube component cable -- so id oubt ist gonan happen.

this is actually going to be a problem for me as i refused to run a composite video cable from my plasma when i mounted it. the lowest res my TV can handle (as is) is S-Video.. it would be nice if the Wii at least ships with those just in case i cant get my hands on a component cable when i pick up the system.

you know what would be really cool? if the Wii component cable is the same as the component cable for Game Cube.
The component cable for Gamecube didn't have any audio cables (you had to use your composite cable for that), so that wouldn't be possible.

The component cable for Gamecube didn't have any audio cables (you had to use your composite cable for that), so that wouldn't be possible.

Well, in the GameCube i have, there are two outputs. one that outputs component video, and another that outputs composite/s-video and L/R audio.


i see no reason why the Wii can't follow a similar output scheme

on my own setup i use one cable for component out and one cable for L/R audio out and i leave the composite/s-video dangling.

CMM.

Well, in the GameCube i have, there are two outputs. one that outputs component video, and another that outputs composite/s-video and L/R audio.

i see no reason why the Wii can't follow a similar output scheme


The Wii does not use a similar output scheme. It has been established repeatedly that the Wii only has one A/V port. Therefore, the cube component cable will not work with the Wii.

The Wii does not use a similar output scheme. It has been established repeatedly that the Wii only has one A/V port. Therefore, the cube component cable will not work with the Wii.

not that i don't believe you, but i'm curious where one might find all this info regarding the look of the Wii's back panel and other such technical details.

thanks in advance for providing same.

CMM.

not that i don't believe you, but i'm curious where one might find all this info regarding the look of the Wii's back panel and other such technical details.

thanks in advance for providing same.

CMM.

IGN Wii FAQ (with pictures):

http://wii.ign.com/articles/733/733464p1.html


Official site:

http://wii.nintendo.com/

As you'll see, in both pictures and text, there is only one port for the A/V connection. So abandon all dreams of using your GCN component cable. Sell it now on eBay and reap ~$60 or keep it as a collector's item, as they are very hard to find and will only become moreso.

Furthermore, we've already had confirmation that the Wii will not include a component cable in the box with the console. It will be sold separately. The only thing we're waiting to hear is whether that cable will be available at launch (so far Nintendo has indicated that this is the case, but nothing firm), if it will be on the shelf at retail (again, intimated, but not confirmed), and how much it will be.

not that i don't believe you, but i'm curious where one might find all this info regarding the look of the Wii's back panel and other such technical details.

thanks in advance for providing same.

CMM.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wii

another thing to consider is that the GC component cable actually requires a digital port for the connection. it has a built-in proprietary digital-to-analog conversion chip that converts the data into an analog signal. this was the limiting factor in the manufacturing and why it was discontinued a while back.

the wii, from everything we know so far, does not have a digital out port on the back. the AV port is analog only. this makes the GC component cable completely useless even if you managed to hook it up somehow. there is likely a DAC chip built in to the Wii, which I personally hope will be hackable for more output options.

you know what would be really cool? if the Wii component cable is the same as the component cable for Game Cube.

They're different. (i have both beside me as i type this. :) )

Hey there...

This should be able to 'close' this issue:

http://wii.ign.com/articles/738/738362p1.html

Nuff said...

Nuff said...

...almost -- "Stay tuned for details on the system's US accessories."

it's a step in the right direction though :)

Hey there...

This should be able to 'close' this issue:

http://wii.ign.com/articles/738/738362p1.html

Nuff said...

Interesting. I wonder if they'll market the D-cable (which I assume is the same as VGA) here in the U.S. Might make sense to use that to free up the only component input on my Samsung 3251, even though I don't need it as my DVD player and STB are hooked up via HDMI.

Are there any advantages to VGA over component?

Interesting. I wonder if they'll market the D-cable (which I assume is the same as VGA) here in the U.S. Might make sense to use that to free up the only component input on my Samsung 3251, even though I don't need it as my DVD player and STB are hooked up via HDMI.

Are there any advantages to VGA over component?

A D-cable (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D4_video_connector) is essentially component video bundled into a different connector. It isn't compatible with VGA connectors.

I wonder how far back the split for the seperate audio and video connectors is on these cables. Hopefully it won't be an issue for one wanting to route the audio to a receiver and the video to a TV that are a fair bit apart.

I guarantee it will be about 6" too short of a split for you ;)

as mentioned, the d-terminal cable is basically the same as component. it is a japanese standard connection. there has been no mention of VGA capability in the Wii.

as for audio, practically every game console AV cable i have ever had was easily split by pulling the ends apart. i would imagine it to be the same in this case. otherwise, since it is simple analog, i do not see why you couldn't use short extensions to connect it to your receiver.

Another reason to stay with 480p and not go HD for Nintendo and for the industry is to answer a BIG concern for developers : the cost of creating a game.

This has sky rocket and many studio are complaining about it with the new generation (IE 360 and PS3).
Microsoft is coming with its own extremely interesting solution though : its live market place games and a development tool that has been release lately for it(with a version available to everybody)...

It is interesting to see that Nintendo has really been criticized a lot in the past for not allowing developer to work easily on their consoles and it seems that a large part of their actual brain storming with the Wii was to precisely to help developers managed their game and their cost....

I am really crossing my fingers, Nintendo is great, we need people like them in the industry....

Microsoft is coming with its own extremely interesting solution though : its live market place games and a development tool that has been release lately for it(with a version available to everybody)...

Just wanted to note that this dev tool currently only allows for development against the PC platform. Microsoft announced that it will be updated in December/January i think to also include the XBox 360. However, you can get started now as the idea is that the code would largely be similar on both platforms.

I wonder how far back the split for the seperate audio and video connectors is on these cables. Hopefully it won't be an issue for one wanting to route the audio to a receiver and the video to a TV that are a fair bit apart.

Finally a perk to having the digital out from the back of the 5053 plasma. Seeing as it can't pass 5.1, it now will not be completely useless! :P

Another reason to stay with 480p and not go HD for Nintendo and for the industry is to answer a BIG concern for developers : the cost of creating a game.


There are original 720P games in Live Arcade, third parties are working on original 1080P games for PNP. It seems even bargain games can be in HD.

Finally a perk to having the digital out from the back of the 5053 plasma. Seeing as it can't pass 5.1, it now will not be completely useless! :P

Hey, that's a really good point that I hadn't even though of. Hooray!

I just wanted to mention that you can find Xbox 360 Component cables all over the place for $19.99, I'm talking about the 3rd party ones. The 1st party ones are $39.99 I believe. Then of course you also have the Monster ones and stuff like that for much more.


The cost of the Wii component cable does very much concern me. I was listening to a video game podcast and this dude was talking about how the Wii component cables cost $60, and I was very shocked by that. The Nintendo Wii is getting more and more expensive every day. First off, you have to buy the system for $249.99. It only comes with one controller, but it comes with Wii Sports. Of course Wii Sports is 100 percent more fun with a second player, so another controller is pretty much mandatory purchase. The extra remote is $39.99 and the extra nunchuck is $19.99. Then you add in the component cable for $59.99. Then you add in the one must have game, Zelda for $49.99. Then you add tax. Your new total? $453.55 (this is with 8 percent sales tax).


Now, I'm still holding out hope that somebody will have a $19.99 component cable available at launch, but there is no guarantee of that. In fact, it's probably very doubtful. I'm also holding out hope that the guy on the podcast was referring to a more expensive 3rd party component cable, and that the official Wii component cable from Nintendo will be $39.99 or less. Still, that's only $20 better, which means you still go over the 400 dollar plateau if you want to take home Zelda and an extra controller.

I just wanted to mention that you can find Xbox 360 Component cables all over the place for $19.99, I'm talking about the 3rd party ones. The 1st party ones are $39.99 I believe. Then of course you also have the Monster ones and stuff like that for much more.


The cost of the Wii component cable does very much concern me. I was listening to a video game podcast and this dude was talking about how the Wii component cables cost $60, and I was very shocked by that. The Nintendo Wii is getting more and more expensive every day. First off, you have to buy the system for $249.99. It only comes with one controller, but it comes with Wii Sports. Of course Wii Sports is 100 percent more fun with a second player, so another controller is pretty much mandatory purchase. The extra remote is $39.99 and the extra nunchuck is $19.99. Then you add in the component cable for $59.99. Then you add in the one must have game, Zelda for $49.99. Then you add tax. Your new total? $453.55 (this is with 8 percent sales tax).


Now, I'm still holding out hope that somebody will have a $19.99 component cable available at launch, but there is no guarantee of that. In fact, it's probably very doubtful. I'm also holding out hope that the guy on the podcast was referring to a more expensive 3rd party component cable, and that the official Wii component cable from Nintendo will be $39.99 or less. Still, that's only $20 better, which means you still go over the 400 dollar plateau if you want to take home Zelda and an extra controller.

First off, you realize that Nintendo announced the price of the component cables in Japan and they rang in at roughly $25? They'll probably get adjusted in price over here to something like $30.

Second, I can confirm for you that Zelda will cost $50. If you want to take home an additional game with your Wii, on top of Wii Sports that is, then you will have to pay for it. I know it sucks, but these darn software companies demand you pay them for their games. Go figure? ;)

Third, I do agree about the controller costs. They are more expensive than they should be and maybe Nintendo will do something about that, but probably not anytime soon. Still, no one says you have to buy an additional controller. In fact, if you have a friend who also purchased the Wii, he can bring his controller over to your place and sync it with your system to play with you. He can also bring over his Mii character in that controller. So, the controller isn't really a mandatory purchase. Keep in mind that all the next gen systems, and current gen ones, only come with one controller, so if you want a second one, it will cost you. The Wii definitely rings in with highest priced controllers at $60(nunchuk + Wiimote) and then the 360 comes in at $50 and then the PS3 at $40.

I just wanted to mention that you can find Xbox 360 Component cables all over the place for $19.99, I'm talking about the 3rd party ones. The 1st party ones are $39.99 I believe. Then of course you also have the Monster ones and stuff like that for much more.


The cost of the Wii component cable does very much concern me. I was listening to a video game podcast and this dude was talking about how the Wii component cables cost $60, and I was very shocked by that. The Nintendo Wii is getting more and more expensive every day. First off, you have to buy the system for $249.99. It only comes with one controller, but it comes with Wii Sports. Of course Wii Sports is 100 percent more fun with a second player, so another controller is pretty much mandatory purchase. The extra remote is $39.99 and the extra nunchuck is $19.99. Then you add in the component cable for $59.99. Then you add in the one must have game, Zelda for $49.99. Then you add tax. Your new total? $453.55 (this is with 8 percent sales tax).


Now, I'm still holding out hope that somebody will have a $19.99 component cable available at launch, but there is no guarantee of that. In fact, it's probably very doubtful. I'm also holding out hope that the guy on the podcast was referring to a more expensive 3rd party component cable, and that the official Wii component cable from Nintendo will be $39.99 or less. Still, that's only $20 better, which means you still go over the 400 dollar plateau if you want to take home Zelda and an extra controller.

Conclusion: gaming is an expensive hobby. Who knew?

Do the same math with the new PSP bundle, the 360 premium or 360 core with memory card, and then PS3. Put the numbers side-by-side. If Wii still isn't a good deal, then you're probably not really that interested in what Wii is offering anyway - a new, more immersive way to interact with games.

I disagree with CallMeJean in that I don't think the controllers are too expensive for what they offer - a completely new way to interact with games. Every single hands-on with the final controller has people praising its build quality and comfort. It's your interface to the games. I'd rather pay more for that than any other aspect of the console.

Also, here are some multiplayer games that won't even require the nunchuck, so you can save some money:
- Wii Sports (with the exception of boxing)
- Wii Play (will come packed in with remote)
- ExciteTruck
- Tony Hawk
- Monster Truck 4x4
- WarioWare (January release)

To play every Wii game at launch:

Wii 250
Component 30
Retro controller 20

$300 is not a lot of money, its $100 cheaper than a comparable 360.

And let's not forget the wii-mote & nunchuck are a bit complicted. The extra positioning sensors add to the cost.

Hope there's a 3rd party cable - seems way to pricey, this one doesn't have a DAC so why the cost?

I just wanted to mention that you can find Xbox 360 Component cables all over the place for $19.99, I'm talking about the 3rd party ones. The 1st party ones are $39.99 I believe. Then of course you also have the Monster ones and stuff like that for much more.


The cost of the Wii component cable does very much concern me. I was listening to a video game podcast and this dude was talking about how the Wii component cables cost $60, and I was very shocked by that. The Nintendo Wii is getting more and more expensive every day. First off, you have to buy the system for $249.99. It only comes with one controller, but it comes with Wii Sports. Of course Wii Sports is 100 percent more fun with a second player, so another controller is pretty much mandatory purchase. The extra remote is $39.99 and the extra nunchuck is $19.99. Then you add in the component cable for $59.99. Then you add in the one must have game, Zelda for $49.99. Then you add tax. Your new total? $453.55 (this is with 8 percent sales tax).


Now, I'm still holding out hope that somebody will have a $19.99 component cable available at launch, but there is no guarantee of that. In fact, it's probably very doubtful. I'm also holding out hope that the guy on the podcast was referring to a more expensive 3rd party component cable, and that the official Wii component cable from Nintendo will be $39.99 or less. Still, that's only $20 better, which means you still go over the 400 dollar plateau if you want to take home Zelda and an extra controller.


Use two Gamer Gift Card coupons at Best Buy and you'll save $10 on the remote and nunchuck.

Use two Gamer Gift Card coupons at Best Buy and you'll save $10 on the remote and nunchuck.

How can I get these gamer gift card coupons?

How can I get these gamer gift card coupons?

They're available in Best Buy, usually near the register, but occasionally in the game section or somewhere else. They can be hard to find sometimes. It's basically just a refillable gift card that comes with a coupon for $5 off any game or accessory $19.99 and above.

Component cable details confirmed: http://wii.ign.com/articles/740/740296p1.html

Cables will retail for $29.99 and will be available at launch but only from online retailers (LAME!!!) like Nintendo, EB, Best Buy, Circuit City.

Amazon would be nice, as I have exactly $30 in credit with them I need to use. I simply cannot understand why Nintendo won't sell these in B&Ms. Bad decision on their part, IMO. Hopefully they'll rescind this policy at some point, but knowing Nintendo, I'm not counting on it. :rolleyes:

The 1% get shafted again!

The 1% get shafted again!

Indeed. The only reason I can think why they might do this is to throw a bone to MadCatz and other third party accessory manufacturers. But chances are, if you're smart enough to know you need a component cable, you're smart enough not to pay twice as much for a third party cable simply because it's the only one on the shelf at your local Best Buy.

Just waiting for the $130 Monster version. :rolleyes:

Anyone really think EB is going to put the $29 cable online when they're selling the MadCatz version for $59? Not likely.

What would more sense is using the component cable from the gamecube. The 1% already have it.

How terribly stupid.

Well, there goes my considering getting one at launch.

What would more sense is using the component cable from the gamecube. The 1% already have it.


can't....no audio on the cube cables.

Is this another instance where Nintendo doesn't want to advertise the fact that the console can technically do 480p? For fear that, when some titles don't support it, they'll get a negative backlash from customers?

Or is it a case of not wanting to have these cables at retail, for fear of confusing customers, i.e. customers intending to hook the unit up to a standard definition television may incorrectly assume they need these when they don't?

Or is it, as mentioned above, a bone thrown to third party accessory manufacturers?

Is this another instance where Nintendo doesn't want to advertise the fact that the console can technically do 480p? For fear that, when some titles don't support it, they'll get a negative backlash from customers?

Or is it a case of not wanting to have these cables at retail, for fear of confusing customers, i.e. customers intending to hook the unit up to a standard definition television may incorrectly assume they need these when they don't?

Or is it, as mentioned above, a bone thrown to third party accessory manufacturers?

I suspect a combination of all of these, plus other factors.

It's worth noting that, if anything, the number of titles supporting 480p and 16:9 actually increased after Nintendo removed the component port from the GCN. These days, I think it's actually easier for developers to work in 16:9 given its prevalence across all systems, so I'm sure most if not all games on the Wii will be widescreen. All of the launch titles are, and Nintendo has said every first-party title for the system will be.

Which really makes one question why they're making it so hard for people to take advantage of it...

Hopefully we'll be able to preorder and get them before the launch of the system.

Hell Nintendo, why not go the next step and only make the console available to be purchased online? They're probably only selling the cables online so that in a year they can then make some claim like "only 1% are using it" so they can stop building that functionality into the system and save more money. Lol, imagine a scenario like that. Wait a second :(

"Nearly all of the 30 or so Wii launch window games run in 480p and 16:9 modes."

- is Wii Sports a 480p 16X9 game?

"Nearly all of the 30 or so Wii launch window games run in 480p and 16:9 modes."

- is Wii Sports a 480p 16X9 game?


"Nearly all?" WTH Nintendo? :mad:

"Nearly all?" WTH Nintendo? :mad:

One can hope the nearly only applies to 16:9 formatting. Can you imagine 480i games these days? Ack!

So, what's Reggie's email?
Seriously, though, does anyone know contact info for NOA ... normally I agree with or at least see the logic behind the chocies Nintendo makes, but the component cable as online-only for the Wii baffles me. I am holding out hope that stores like Best Buy and EB will in fact have the cables in their B&M stores and not just online, but in the meantime, it can't hurt (though probably won't help) to at least lit NoA know how we feel ...

"Nearly all of the 30 or so Wii launch window games run in 480p and 16:9 modes."

- is Wii Sports a 480p 16X9 game?

Not sure where this quote is from, but 100% of first party games (not just at launch) will be 16:9 and 480p. Nintendo has been saying this at least since the New York event. Most, if not all, third party titles will be as well. But obviously Nintendo can't speak for them, no more than they can force them to charge a certain amount.

Conclusion: gaming is an expensive hobby. Who knew?

Do the same math with the new PSP bundle, the 360 premium or 360 core with memory card, and then PS3. Put the numbers side-by-side. If Wii still isn't a good deal, then you're probably not really that interested in what Wii is offering anyway - a new, more immersive way to interact with games.




Problem is you can't compare the Wii to either the 360 or PS3, because the Wii is according to Nintendo themselves, a "New" generation video game system rather than a "Next" generation video game system. I'm hoping that if you are posting on AVSforums, you are likely an adult, and if you are an adult, then you can rationally think about these video game systems and not let the typical message board fanboyism enter into the equation. I can give you a little back history on my relationship with Nintendo. It dates back to Xmas of 1986, when as a sophmore in high school, I received the original NES as a Xmas gift. In August of 1991, with my own hard earned dinero, I bought the SNES the day it came out. To this day, I consider the Super Nintendo my favorite system of all time (pound for pound). I bought a N64 the day it came out. I also bought a GameCube the day it came out. I hope to be able to find a Wii on November 19th, but I'm certainly not going to stick my head in the sand and pretend that there isn't anything at all dissapointing about the Wii, cause quite frankly, there is a laundry list of issues with it. I see things rationally for how they are, and honestly, all 3 systems have their share of issues. They all have their strengths and weaknesses, and depending on the type of gamer that you are, one might suit your needs better than the other.

One thing that really bothers me about the Wii, is how it's getting a free pass on everything just because it happens to be priced lower. Costing less is just one little factor among a myriad of factors, and I think people are way to focused on the price, especially the price in comparison to the true Next gen systems. You really can't compare the Wii head to head with the 360 or PS3, because both the 360 and PS3 are state of the art technology, while the Wii is an ehanced GameCube with a required peripheral that "might" be revolutionary, or "might" turn out to be little more than a gimmick. The verdict is still out until we all get it in our homes and see if the fun really lasts for more than 20 minute sessions. I've listened to many podcasts with various gaming journalists and many of them wonder if the Wii will be fun for more than 20 minute "sessions". I'm not saying that they are right or wrong about that, but it is something to think about.

Now some people might read my comments and instantly think I'm anti-Nintendo or something, and if you want to think that, that's your business, but I'm just a guy who isn't going to give any particular company a free pass just because they made the most treasured games of my young adulthood. Nintendo is a hell of a company, but it's not like they can do no wrong. Again, I'm buying a Wii day one if I can find one, and I hope to have alot of fun with Wii Sports and other games, but the sad reality is that this system isn't anywhere near as cheap as everybody is making it out to be. Once you add all the necessary items into the mix, you are almost paying the same amount of money that people are paying for the true next gen systems, and you aren't getting a stop gap system with a new interface that could ultimately be seen as little more than a gimmick. It could turn out to be the most innovative thing in video game history as well, we just don't know yet.


Here is what I plan on buying on day 1:



1. 1 Wii System = $249.99
2. 1 extra Wii-mote = $39.99
3. 1 extra Nunchuck = $19.99
4. 1 copy of Zelda = $49.99
5. 1 Component Cable = $29.99 (estimated price)
6. Tax rate of 7.75 percent


Grand Total = $420.17


I also need some kind of extension cord for the sensor bar cable, and I'm not sure if those will be available on launch day or not, or how that's going to work. I remember awhile back when Nintendo kept boasting about how affordable the Wii was, at that time, I never would have ever imagined that the cash register would ring up $420.17. I'm still going to buy all that stuff and I'm not trying to bitch about it, but it's not quite as cheap as people seem to think. :cool:

Your list matches mine exactly, and I agree whole-heartedly that it ain't cheap. Even IGN recently listed that as a missed opportunity for Nintendo and said it was decidedly not mainstream pricing.

Here is what I plan on buying on day 1:

1. 1 Wii System = $249.99
2. 1 extra Wii-mote = $39.99
3. 1 extra Nunchuck = $19.99
4. 1 copy of Zelda = $49.99
5. 1 Component Cable = $29.99 (estimated price)
6. Tax rate of 7.75 percent


Grand Total = $420.17


I also need some kind of extension cord for the sensor bar cable, and I'm not sure if those will be available on launch day or not, or how that's going to work. I remember awhile back when Nintendo kept boasting about how affordable the Wii was, at that time, I never would have ever imagined that the cash register would ring up $420.17. I'm still going to buy all that stuff and I'm not trying to bitch about it, but it's not quite as cheap as people seem to think. :cool:

Keep in mind that you are adding quite a bit of extra items to your shipping cart to bump it up to that price. If you're buying a 360 or PS3, an extra controller is going to cost you $50 and a brand new released game will most likely cost you $50-$60. So, the additional costs that you're getting with the Wii will still be present if you subsititute any other system in its place.

When Nintendo says that the Wii is much more cost effective, I think they are mostly comparing their console to other consoles. For $250 they're basically saying you get a console, with a wireless controller, a game, built in memory, and built in Wi Fi all right out of the box. If that's the only thing you buy on launch, you can still play your system without the need of any additional purchase. Obviously if you want more than that, which we all do, it will cost you.

I do agree about the $250 price being a tad more expensive than I was hoping for myself, but its not that big of a deal to me since they are including Wii Sports. I would like to see them release some sort of nunchuk and Wiimote combo for $50 just to put their controller on par with everyone else's, even though it does have more features. $60 is hard to swallow for additional controllers.

Wii will still be present if you subsititute any other system in its place.
Hear ye, hear ye!

I can't quite grasp the complaints about the system package - it's the same as everyone else. Box, single controller & connectivity. The only difference is the component cable & that's because the system isn't touted as HD capable as the 360 & PS3 are.

All three give you the same basics in the box.

I can't quite grasp the complaints about the system package - it's the same as everyone else.

Exactly... in fact, the Wii packs in a full retail(ish) game so it's better value than the other guys for most people.

The problem is... this is an A/V messageboard so we tend to approach things from a technical perspective. The Wii is not the best choice for us techies because it's next-gen focus isn't technical -- the focus is more control, gameplay and compatibility/library.

Hear ye, hear ye!

Actually, I think you mean "Here, here," unless you're about to deliver a proclamation. ;)

I can't quite grasp the complaints about the system package - it's the same as everyone else. Box, single controller & connectivity. The only difference is the component cable & that's because the system isn't touted as HD capable as the 360 & PS3 are.

Not even that, because the 360 Core system, which is the one that most often gets compared to the Wii on price, does not come with a component cable either.

Anthony: Thank you for your eloquent and balanced arguments. I concede pretty much all of your points. If Steve had argued in such a fashion instead of making repeated attempts to martyr himself, I probably would have agreed with him as well. Nintendo has screwed up just as often as the other guys -- more, in fact, which is part of the reason they found themselves in third place (in console units sold, anyway) in the current generation. But I truly think they've turned a corner and the Wii, despite its faults, will be a massive success.

Actually, I think you mean "Here, here," unless you're about to deliver a proclamation.
LMAO - You're right, thanks for the correction.

probably would have agreed with him as well. Nintendo has screwed up just as often as the other guys -- more, in fact, which is part of the reason they found themselves in third place
Yep, wasn't all that long ago I was hoping to see someone put Nintendo in their place.....guess I got that wish.

The fact is no system is perfect, nor is there a perfect system for everyone. Like everything else you just have to pick the one that's best for you.

Not even that, because the 360 Core system, which is the one that most often gets compared to the Wii on price, does not come with a component cable either.


No, but at least you can walk into any B&M and pick one up.

No, but at least you can walk into any B&M and pick one up.

This is true.

No, but at least you can walk into any B&M and pick one up.
..........or I can sit on my lazy butt & have one delivered :)

has it been confirmed that the component cable will be sold online only?

has it been confirmed that the component cable will be sold online only?
Yes.

From I've been able to gather -

#1 - Nintendo offical cable, online only $29
#2 - MadCatz through EB/Gamestop $59
#3 - Pelican, listed on various websites (future) $19.99

has it been confirmed that the component cable will be sold online only?

Yes, but it will be carried by Best Buy, CC, EB, and "other" online retailers, in addition to the Nintendo online store. Strange, but that's Nintendo for you.

That MadCatz price on EB is a placeholder. There's no way they'd sell it for $60 when the first party cable is half that (even if it's online only) and Pelican is less than that. Not that I'd buy a third-party component cable anyway...

I can't quite grasp the complaints about the system package - it's the same as everyone else. Box, single controller & connectivity.
Nintendo repeatedly said that they are not in competition with everone else. The Wii is supposed to be about playing together, and that implies more than one controller should come with the box. And the final nail is that the Japanese pricing is significantly cheaper across the board:

Wii $211 (U.S. $250) - No Wii Sports but I don't really care about that
Controller $32 (U.S. $40)
Nunchuck $15 (U.S. $20)
Component Cable $21 (U.S. $30)
LAN Adapter $24 (U.S. Unknown)

All prices include tax.

So for the Wii + extra controller + nunchuck + component

in Japan $279 ($313 w/ Wii Sports)
in America $340 + tax (for me $368.05)

Quite a difference. I'm debating whether to have my friend send me component cables and an extra controller/nunchuck from Japan after the release there, but I'm not sure if it's worth the wait and the shipping (Wii doesn't come out until December there).

From IGN
Loss: Decidedly Un-Mainstream $250 Price Tag and Expensive Controllers
For a console that was promised as "small, quiet and affordable," Wii will only debut at $50 less than the basic Xbox 360. But even that price point is deceptive, especially since the system ships with the multiplayer-centric Wii sports, but includes only one Wii remote and nunchuk. Buyers who want to enjoy Wii Sports Tennis for four will need to spend an extra $39.99 per Wii remote. Three Wii-motes will add another $120 to the $250 price tag for a grand total of $370. Don't get us wrong - even with all these accessories the Wii is still cheaper than a stripped PlayStation 3 - but when you tack on the cost of additional Wii-motes, there's simply no way Wii is "mass market friendly," as some Nintendo executives would have us believe.

LAN Adapter $24 (U.S. Unknown)
Not necessary. As with the component cable this is a niche product @ best. Of course if they don't have/update to WPA it may be different story.

I'd believe Nintendo understands the US market better than IGN, by a wide margin. First, by & large they won't give a tinker's damn how much it costs in Japan. Second, they only really care about the unit cost (US consumers don't buy a car consider how much tires will cost). Third, it's almost accepted that you'll be buying add ons - just the way it is now.

Component cable? Represents a tiny portion of the intended market & it's a non-HD console. Sony gives you composite w/ an HD console.

Sorry, but IMHO the consumer will see the $249 price tag & believe it's 1/2 the price of the Sony unit - a belief that is correct.

Not that I'd buy a third-party component cable anyway...
Well it's not like Nintendo's is gonna be using RG6 either. I like the breakout box idea that Xbox uses. If the component outputs on the GC and Wii are digital, and the DAC is IN the cable, why not just make it a DVI cable and keep the signal digital throughout? :confused:

why not just make it a DVI cable and keep the signal digital throughout?
Good question, they do make a version for the Japanese equivilent?

The LAN adapter may not be necessary for you, but it is for me which is why I included it. I did not include it in the total cost comparisons.

Sorry, but IMHO the consumer will see the $249 price tag & believe it's 1/2 the price of the Sony unit - a belief that is correct.
I agree, but we're talking about gamers here who actually know (and care) about PS3 and 360. Nintendo, who you say understands the market, says they're going after non-gamers, these are people who could care less about the PS3 and how much it costs, at least that's what Nintendo thinks. Grandma and Grandpa aren't going to care how much the PS3 costs, they're only going to think "$250 is a lot of money and then I have to buy another controller and a Nu...what's it called?" This is assuming that Nintendo is right and that they will be interested at all. I know my grandparents won't be buying one.

why not just make it a DVI cable and keep the signal digital throughout?

Good question, they do make a version for the Japanese equivilent?
No, the D cable is the Japanese equivalent of component.

I agree, but we're talking about gamers here who actually know (and care) about PS3 and 360. Nintendo, who you say understands the market, says they're going after non-gamers, these are people who could care less about the PS3 and how much it costs, at least that's what Nintendo thinks.
I'd say the market is casual & non-gamers, along with those who will refuse the price of the other two. While the true magic number for consumer electronics in the US is $200 (as in the barrier where DVD players took off), $250 isn't that much of a stretch. Unless you're in a Wii only store you'll see the Wii @ $250, the 360 @ a minimum of $300, and the PS3 @ $400 - all in the same area.

I'd wager more folks will see the Wii Sports inclusion then will pay attention to the extra controller - the controller is expected, having ANY games inside is a bonus. Out of the box you can play all but the boxing & tennis (both of which you can play against the computer).

The price won't be an issue - the Kidtendo image might be.

I'd say the market is casual & non-gamers, along with those who will refuse the price of the other two. While the true magic number for consumer electronics in the US is $200 (as in the barrier where DVD players took off), $250 isn't that much of a stretch. Unless you're in a Wii only store you'll see the Wii @ $250, the 360 @ a minimum of $300, and the PS3 @ $400 - all in the same area.

I'd wager more folks will see the Wii Sports inclusion then will pay attention to the extra controller - the controller is expected, having ANY games inside is a bonus. Out of the box you can play all but the boxing & tennis (both of which you can play against the computer).

The price won't be an issue - the Kidtendo image might be.

The PS3 at $400?

The PS3 at $400?
LMAO - I was thinking $499, rounded to $500 but typed $400 :) (or maybe it was just wishful thinking)

The price won't be an issue
I think Nintendo won't reach its target audience right away. They'll be more likely to get the non-gamers after their first price drop.

Likely their thinking was that people who are chomping at the bit to get the system will pay pretty much whatever they charge, and get the word of mouth going. Then after the price drop other people will start picking it up.

Well it's not like Nintendo's is gonna be using RG6 either. I like the breakout box idea that Xbox uses. If the component outputs on the GC and Wii are digital, and the DAC is IN the cable, why not just make it a DVI cable and keep the signal digital throughout? :confused:


the older GCs had a digital out port. the GCs now and the Wiis only have an analog port. you are not going to get a digital signal out of them with a mere cable. i am thinking that if you want more output options on the wii, you will need direct access to the internal DAC.

even with the older GCs, it was my understanding that the digital port was wired in a SDI format, not DVI. I know that there is no way that i am going out to buy SDI equipment just so i can hook up my old gc.

the older GCs had a digital out port. the GCs now and the Wiis only have an analog port
You sure about the Wii?

considering that there isn't even a digital audio port and that the listed specs only state composite/s-video/component capability, it really is not a far cry to figure out that digital output is probably the furthest thing from their mind.
of course, there really hasn't been a good breakdown of the AV port, but given the nintendo philosophy, it is easy to assume them catering to the lowest standards..

w/r to the official nintendo cable this was over at IGN...

A spokesperson for the company told IGN Wii this morning that the Wii component cables would be available for purchase with the launch of the console in November. The cables will cost $29.99 and will only be available through online retail outlets, including Nintendo’s store, Best Buy, Circuit City and EB Games

So online only....but also available at mass market online stores. Kind of odd...

I like the price.

The online crap is typical Nintendo.

I wonder if we'll be able to order them before the release so they will arrive in time for us to bring the console home and hook it up.

Quick question, is this only for the official cables or does it cover third party cables as well. If I can pick up some Mad Catz cables or something similar I don't really care, but if those are limited to online too then I have an issue.

Quick question, is this only for the official cables or does it cover third party cables as well. If I can pick up some Mad Catz cables or something similar I don't really care, but if those are limited to online too then I have an issue.
That would only be for the offical cable, Nintendo has no way of controlling what 3rd party suppliers do............except denying units to places like EB if they sell 3rd party accessories = VERY un-likely.

Planetgamecube.com has the official wii component cable listed with a release date of December 2nd.

http://www.planetgamecube.com/hardArt.cfm?artid=12236

That would only be for the offical cable, Nintendo has no way of controlling what 3rd party suppliers do............except denying units to places like EB if they sell 3rd party accessories = VERY un-likely.

Especially since one of the reasons that Nintendo is selling them online only is to give supporting companies like MadCatz and Pelican (and possibly Monster down the road) a leg up at the B&Ms.

Planetgamecube.com has the official wii component cable listed with a release date of December 2nd.

http://www.planetgamecube.com/hardArt.cfm?artid=12236

Ehhh...This sounds plausible, but PGC is not exactly the most reliable source for these things. They list no source for this information, so as far as I'm concerned, that date is no more reliable than an EB/GS spaceholder date/price, and we all know how speculative those are.

That component cable looks extremely wimpy. Too bad they didn't ditch proprietary connections and just use a standard component or DVI out. Hopefully a 3rd party will make some quality component cables.

I have a 1080i TV (the Sanyo HT30746, in fact), would there be any noticeable improvement in getting the component cable to run in progressive scan, even though my TV doesn't do progressive scan? My TV can accept every signal including 480p and 720p but it ultimately displays everything in 1080i. Obviously the picture will look better because it will be component, not composite, but as far as progressive scan mode goes, will it make a difference?

Sorry for the slightly OT question, but can anybody recommend a moderately priced component switch? I don't need anything fancy, just something simple to switch between DVD and Wii.

Thanks for the help.

I have a 1080i TV (the Sanyo HT30746, in fact), would there be any noticeable improvement in getting the component cable to run in progressive scan, even though my TV doesn't do progressive scan? My TV can accept every signal including 480p and 720p but it ultimately displays everything in 1080i. Obviously the picture will look better because it will be component, not composite, but as far as progressive scan mode goes, will it make a difference?

it is strange to me to see a hd crt that does not support 480p natively. although 1080i is not a progressive signal, it still draws 540 lines per frame. for a 480p signal, you need 480 lines drawn per frame. your tv is more than capable of showing the full progressive signal of 480p, even if it may be scaled. even component YCbCr (480i) yields an improvement over s-video. your tv supports YPbPr, which means that you can and should feed it a progressive signal if possible.

Good News!! Look at the question above the black & white picture.

http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200611/N06.1103.1640.33657.htm?Page=2

Hope it's accurate.

Good News!! Look at the question above the black & white picture.


Hope it's accurate.

Best post on this discussion yet.

For those too lazy to click the link, it's an interview with Perrin Kaplan of Nintendo, who says that the first party component cable will be available at retail (i.e., B&M) and online on launch day.

Combine this with the news coming out of WalMart and Best Buy that Wii games and accessories will go on sale the week before launch and it looks good that we will be able to have these when we need them.

On the other hand, let's remember that this is the same woman that told us the Wii would be region free, so she's not exactly a font of accurate information. :rolleyes:

http://www.aussie-nintendo.com/images/NEWS/wii_cables.jpg

Those component cables still look extremely skinny. On the right, that's probably a VGA - I'd prefer that.

Nope, unfortunately thats not VGA, but instead the Japan only D-Terminal cable.

With as many systems as Nintendo is going to sell and as many high-profile widescreen 480p games as the system will have, it is inevitable that Monster will come out with a high-end component cable. It's not like them to leave money on the table. ;)

For me, the first party cables should work fine.

Doesn't have to be Monster - hopefully Mad Catz or Pelican will make some using at least 24 gauge cable, which I would consider a minimum standard, even for 480p. It's not that expensive, you can get 6' 22 gauge RG59 component cables with good plugs for like $4. That Nintendo component cable looks like it's 28 gauge with minimal shielding. Hell, for $30, I'd expect 18 gauge RG6, but I know better.

I just noticed overstock.c0m has the Wii component cable available for pre-order at $19.


Good Luck

It also says it won't ship until February 07, so I wouldn't bother preordering from there.

Sorry for the slightly OT question, but can anybody recommend a moderately priced component switch? I don't need anything fancy, just something simple to switch between DVD and Wii.

Thanks for the help.


I went to gamestop and they had a 4 device switch, 3 of which are component. It also accepts composite, svideo, rca audio, and ethernet. I think it was like $20. I don't see it on their website, but two gamestops near me had it.

Component cables will be available in store:
http://wii.ign.com/articles/744/744867p1.html

This is a bunch of crap, Game stop has a 12/15 ship date on the official cable? Grrrr. BB and CC don't have it listed yet.

That gamestop/EB date of 12/15 has been around for MONTHS. Nintendo has now stated more than once that they will be available in retail stores at launch. If you can't find them on launch day, then feel free to complain.

I went to gamestop and they had a 4 device switch, 3 of which are component. It also accepts composite, svideo, rca audio, and ethernet. I think it was like $20. I don't see it on their website, but two gamestops near me had it.


Thanks for the info.

Caught this today from an IGN blog:


Legend of Zelda on an LCD with composite cables is FUGLY. Really FUGLY. So FUGLY it deserves all caps. The same can be said for Excite Truck and likely any other Wii game. If you have an HDTV, the Wii may turn your stomach. There are two solutions.

#1: Get component cables. Easier said than done, as rumors suggest you can only get these online and that quantities will be far more limited than the four million Wii’s shipping his holiday. Why Nintendo wanted their games to look like **** for millions is unknown. But if you stick with the in-the-box composite cables, you will likely be unhappy with what appears on screen.

#2: Buy a ****** TV. No, seriously. With composite cables, Wii games will look a lot better on a standard definition television. Especially one that is under 32”. I may actually spend $250 at launch to buy a lesser TV just for the Wii. It sounds crazy, but if you saw the horror on screen that IGN witnessed Friday, you wouldn’t scoff at the idea of a Wii-dedicated **** TV.

My excitement for the Wii has just dropped by about 20%. That’s still better than the PS3, which, after seeing in the office the past week, is now below “Root Canal” among things I’d like to have for Christmas. I still want a Wii, but for the first time in six months, I’d actually be okay if I missed out at launch. Also, the first two hours of Zelda = Zzzzzz...

Interesting, as Madden 03 in widescreen on my 1080p over s video cables from the GC loooks great. It would seem that the scaler in their television must not be up to snuff.

It does say that they're using composite though and not S-video. The S-Video output was a large improvement on the gamecube as well.

Good point.

"That’s still better than the PS3, which, after seeing in the office the past week, is now below “Root Canal” among things I’d like to have for Christmas."

Did I read that right? :eek: This person doesn't want the PS3 given to them as a gift this Christmas?

Can anyone elaborate why he/she said this? :confused:

That IGN blog must be a little old, since on 11/8 wii.ign.com posted this:

IGN Wii: What's up with Wii component cables? When can we get them, and how?

Perrin Kaplan: The component cable is going to be sold online and it's also going to be at three retailers. So Circuit City, GameStop and Best Buy. They'll have it online and they'll have it at retailers.

IGN Wii: Oh great, so you'll be able to walk in and buy them at those retailers? Fantastic.

Perrin Kaplan: Yeah. And we did that just because we knew that you were being really grumpy about it. Just kidding! But we knew you were really worried about it.

Look out for more from Perrin as soon as we get some time for transcription.

Here's the article: http://wii.ign.com/articles/744/744867p1.html

That IGN blog must be a little old, since on 11/8 wii.ign.com posted this:



Here's the article: http://wii.ign.com/articles/744/744867p1.html

I don't know if it's old so much as the guy was just badly misinformed. Also, IGN's Wii channel editors (Matt Cassamassina and Mark Bozon) are based up in San Fran while most of the other editors (including the guy who wrote this blog entry) are in L.A. Which is why Matt has a component cable and these guys don't. Regardless, this guy apparently doesn't read the news on his own site. :rolleyes:

If anyone is thinking about NOT getting the component cables, I recommend reading the Gamespy Zelda review that was just posted:


I ended up playing through about 75 percent of the game using the standard composite cables that ship with the Wii, until I managed to snag some component cables towards the end. The difference in quality, clarity and imagery between the quite frankly subpar composite signal and the sexy 480p component signal was night and day. A sharper, more vibrant image enhanced the game experience significantly, so if you have the means, I highly recommend using component input.

Looks like they came & went online.
http://store.nintendo.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?currency=USD&storeId=10001&jspStoreDir=NOASTORE&productId=117711&categoryId=63205&langId=-1&catalogId=10001&ddkey=SetCurrencyPreference

Also, I just got off the phone with my local Gamestop & they still don't know anything about them. She said she expects them to show up "any day now", but that's hardly reassuring. PLEASE don't make me buy a S-video connector that I will just have to eventually throw away.

"That’s still better than the PS3, which, after seeing in the office the past week, is now below “Root Canal” among things I’d like to have for Christmas."

Did I read that right? :eek: This person doesn't want the PS3 given to them as a gift this Christmas?

Can anyone elaborate why he/she said this? :confused:

Well I know for me I would be asking for a Wii over a PS3 this year. Money for my family doesnt grow on trees and I know the Wii will work out of the box with less troubles. With all the reports of the red rings of death of the xbox and the PS3 costing $600+ and not really out there to give accurate idea of its troubles Id rather play around with the cheaper, and looks like more fun, Wii, and wait a few years on the updates for the xbox or ps3 and prices to come down. Then maybe jump on one or the other. I like my money to last and I can buy 2 Wii, one for me and one for my boys, at the price of an xbox and ps3. We all have computers for "stunning" graphics to hold out paying that much for a console that will die in 6 months time or have to be sent in for repairs, or who knows what. Ill wait for the testers to be done with it for a few years then waste my money so it will give us years of enjoyment for less once most of the bugs are addressed, hopefully ;)

Anyone found the component cables yet?

What i'm now curious about is while we now know that the gc component cables won't work on the wii, what about the old s-vid/composite cables? I doubt it, but since some people actually have the console now it would be nice to have a confirmation on if i could use my monster s-vid (that i got at a reasonable price) cable for my gc will work on the wii for example since they have used the same connector since the snes

The lack of component cable availability is a serious blunder on Nintendo's behalf. I hope they get them in soon because I do not want to settle for S-video while I wait, but composite is so painful...

What i'm now curious about is while we now know that the gc component cables won't work on the wii, what about the old s-vid/composite cables? I doubt it, but since some people actually have the console now it would be nice to have a confirmation on if i could use my monster s-vid (that i got at a reasonable price) cable for my gc will work on the wii for example since they have used the same connector since the snes

No. it uses a completely different av port.

During the launch at Target, I asked an employee about procuring a Wii component cable and he just sort of gave me a look before asking a second employee. That employee confirmed that they had none (and based on the reply, probably didn't expect to get / carry any, either).

Since I was apparently the first person to ask about the cable, after about 30 other people had already made their game and accessory selections, it does seem that the mainstream audience doesn't care about the poor composite video quality.

No. it uses a completely different av port.


darn..ah well, it is the first time for the big n, since they did do it to cut down on 1 port for you component users

yea, it's good and bad. I'd much rather them have a breakout on the back already for the ports... but that'd be more space taken I guess, and they couldn't make $ selling you cables.

I just ordered the component cables on Nintendo's site - $30 + tax +shipping ~$40. But no telling when I'll get it. Someone said next shipment is Nov 28th.

Half the people purchasing a wii at nintendo world didn't even know what they would use a component cable for.
I need some cables!

I just got my cables from Nintendo. They're well built, nice thick cables. I'll be hooking it up tonight, after Heroes.

i just got my cables... 1 big problem with them, you can't separate the audio from the video cables, so if you're plugging the audio into anything other than what you're plugging your video into.... you're gonna need some extension cables! boooooooo

i just got my cables... 1 big problem with them, you can't separate the audio from the video cables, so if you're plugging the audio into anything other than what you're plugging your video into.... you're gonna need some extension cables! boooooooo


Why on Earth do they do this? That truely does suck! I don't think I will have a problem....but it can be a real pain in the ass for people when they do this. I never understood it at all

I ordered my cables from Nintendo after striking out on 3rd parties. I was hopeful the cable would allow you to split the audio away from the video since I plug component directly into my TV and Audio into my AV System (Denon AVR-5600 with no component input but I like the heavyweight too much to upgrade yet) so I guess the local Shack gets my business to make the cables reach the AV.

Does anyone recommend a good component switch box? Sony XBR only has one component input and my DVD player has component out as well.

I ordered my cables from Nintendo after striking out on 3rd parties. I was hopeful the cable would allow you to split the audio away from the video since I plug component directly into my TV and Audio into my AV System (Denon AVR-5600 with no component input but I like the heavyweight too much to upgrade yet) so I guess the local Shack gets my business to make the cables reach the AV.

Does anyone recommend a good component switch box? Sony XBR only has one component input and my DVD player has component out as well.

check monoprice.com. I know they make good inexpensive HDMI switches.

i just got my cables... 1 big problem with them, you can't separate the audio from the video cables, so if you're plugging the audio into anything other than what you're plugging your video into.... you're gonna need some extension cables! boooooooo
Dumb question but why can't you just plug the 'proprietary' component video into the Wii and supplement it with another audio cable? Does the audio end have a proprietary interface as well?

The port in the Wii supplies both the (analog) video and audio information. There is no separate audio connection or plug on the console, and hence this is not possible. The console obsession with proprietary "A/V multi-outs" is maddening, especially when the manufacturer supplies only inferior cables with the console.

-Just buy an extension for the audio cables so you can run them to your receiver.

-If your TV has analog audio out (in addition to optical) you can run another set of cables from your tv to receiver as well.

-I saw the description of some aftermarket component cables for the wii and it included an audio out port. Since they havent shipped yet, this cannot be confirmed.

The port in the Wii supplies both the (analog) video and audio information. There is no separate audio connection or plug on the console, and hence this is not possible. The console obsession with proprietary "A/V multi-outs" is maddening, especially when the manufacturer supplies only inferior cables with the console.

OK I see what you mean. Thanks. 1 AV out. You get to choose between their cable or a component branched. Either way there's only the "Wii interface" attached at the out.

I just bought 2 RCA couplers from monoprice for 70 cents each. It was less than 5 bucks after shipping. I'll just connect another 3 or 6 foot rca cable from there to my audio reciever.

edit:

if the component cable does have an audio out, I guess I'll just put these in my drawer of unused cables, (good to have around, right?)

This issue about not being able to separate the audio from the video cables is also present with the composite cable that come with the Wii. I had a similar issue with my 360 & had go ou t & buy couplers from Radio Shack ($4). I got two more Saturday before I got my Wii. Still no component for me though.

There have been reports, and even Reggie Fils-Ames said during Gamespot.com's live launch broadcast that component cables would be available at retail outlets at launch... so has anyone seen or bought it at a B&M store? If so where? I haven't found any!

I know that component cables will transfer a sharper picture with better color depth, but I hope the difference is dramatic. I just hooked a Wii up to my A2000 last night (with the standard composite cables) and it looked so bad I wouldn't even say it was worth playing. I have ordered the component cable directly from Nintendo (though it is not likely to ship until the end of this month). I knew the Wii wasn't going to have Xbox 360 video quality, but I was so extremely underwhelmed I was surprised. Here's hoping the component cables make a dramatic improvement.

I know that component cables will transfer a sharper picture with better color depth, but I hope the difference is dramatic. I just hooked a Wii up to my A2000 last night (with the standard composite cables) and it looked so bad I wouldn't even say it was worth playing. I have ordered the component cable directly from Nintendo (though it is not likely to ship until the end of this month). I knew the Wii wasn't going to have Xbox 360 video quality, but I was so extremely underwhelmed I was surprised. Here's hoping the component cables make a dramatic improvement.

If the difference is similar to the Gamecube difference, you will be pleasantly surprised.

There have been reports, and even Reggie Fils-Ames said during Gamespot.com's live launch broadcast that component cables would be available at retail outlets at launch... so has anyone seen or bought it at a B&M store? If so where? I haven't found any!

FWIW, there was a peg with "Wii Component Cables" and the price at Best Buy. It was empty, but so was every other peg for Wii accessories.

I went ahead and ordered my cables from Nintendo yesterday. I figure it'll keep me from obsessing over getting a Wii for a while. Hopefully by the time I have the component cables in hand Wii hardware will be a little easier to come by.

I know that component cables will transfer a sharper picture with better color depth, but I hope the difference is dramatic. I just hooked a Wii up to my A2000 last night (with the standard composite cables) and it looked so bad I wouldn't even say it was worth playing. I have ordered the component cable directly from Nintendo (though it is not likely to ship until the end of this month). I knew the Wii wasn't going to have Xbox 360 video quality, but I was so extremely underwhelmed I was surprised. Here's hoping the component cables make a dramatic improvement.

have you played anything other than wii sports?
IMHO the wii sports look the worst of any of the titles i've played.
i noticed that with super monkey ball the graphics were much better with the component cables, but graphics aren't the point with wii anyway! ;)
play some of the VC titles and you won't care! hehehe

I know that component cables will transfer a sharper picture with better color depth, but I hope the difference is dramatic. I just hooked a Wii up to my A2000 last night (with the standard composite cables) and it looked so bad I wouldn't even say it was worth playing. I have ordered the component cable directly from Nintendo (though it is not likely to ship until the end of this month). I knew the Wii wasn't going to have Xbox 360 video quality, but I was so extremely underwhelmed I was surprised. Here's hoping the component cables make a dramatic improvement.

AVBill, I hooked up my Wii yesterday to my Westinghouse LCD via component and the difference between the composite was unbelievable. I was literally unable to play Zelda over composite because the picture was blurry and lacked color depth; all issues have been resolved with the component connection. Only downside is that "jaggies" are more pronounced, but it is highly worth it.

Thanks for the feedback. I thought/hoped the component upgrade would give it a nice boost. When I used component on standard def TVs it was a minor upgrade (over S-video, which was a minor upgrade over composite). On HDTVs it seems that component and 480p is the minimum signal that even starts to look good.

FYI... I was playing Zelda:TP.

Masta...what size LCD are we talking?

Anyone have any word on when the backorered cables are shipping again? I got in late to this party thinkg I'd be able to buy them at Nintendo World.....

Just played Zelda via composite on my KDFE60A20 and it's pretty bad. I won't be getting my component until December 2nd or 3rd I'm thinking, so we'll see how it pans out.

Masta...what size LCD are we talking?

32" for now :(

Anywhere to get them NOW? Ordered the Pelican cables from Buy.com Sunday, they estimated they would ship 11/20. Now 11/22 and no change in my order from 'Sent to Warehouse'. Also I can no longer find the cables listed on their site. Will probably order a set from Nintendo as well.

Probably should have ordered them from Nintendo before but oh, well...

This cable is selling for over a hundred on you know what auction site.

I get a definate buzz from my Panny EDTV through the video from the Wii composite jacks -- hoping the component cable remedies the situation.

I ordered several days ago on Nintendo - still listed as backordered. I certainly hope they can replenish stocks soon. I don't want to beat Zelda without playing some of it with component.

I ordered several days ago on Nintendo - still listed as backordered. I certainly hope they can replenish stocks soon. I don't want to beat Zelda without playing some of it with component.

maybe their will be a quest 2 and just mix everytrhing up =))

This cable is selling for over a hundred on you know what auction site.

That is crazy. I just received mine from Nintendo yesterday, now I'm thinking maybe I should list it. Wow.

so can you not ever buy the cable in-store?

No, it will be available in stores...some stores even already have the empty hook with the SKU and name on it in the Wii accessories area. However, there have been some reports that the stores won't have stock for another couple weeks.

Ordered from Nintendo this morning, Buy.com has still not shipped. Froogled and apparently these cannot be had outside of that auction site right now.

I've been playing with the Wii for a couple of days now and here are my few thoughts.

(1) Pick up Excite Truck!!! Very fun game that looks good on standard A/V. Probably will have aliasing problems over component, but this is the MOST fun I've had racing in a long time.

(2) Super Monkey Ball is a showcase title for the Wii. In a lot of ways I think it showcases the motion control even better than Wii Sports.

(3) Get Zelda...

(4) If you have an LCD HDTV without Faroudja(sp?) scaling and without a very high contrast ratio, expect Zelda to look unbelievably bad. So bad you might want to return the system... This ugliness does not last, as the Twighlight Realm actually looks pretty good over standard A/V -- but every time you go back to misty forest or any area with muddy, low contrast textures, the game looks sinfully bad.

I've seen captures of component output for Zelda, and I would say you should hold off on playing the game until you get these cables (mine are on order).

(5) Monkey Ball looks great due to the nature of its graphics (saturation, simple textures, high frame rate).

(6) Get one of those covers for your Wiimote. They feel real good. Here is a link to some greymarket covers. Not sure how good they are, but the do include one for the Nunchuck.

http://www.superufo.com/pp/category.asp?category_id={D2752BFC-AC4D-4926-BF3B-B3C7E47E45F0}

If you can't wait, you can cobble one up on your own...
http://nfggames.com/wiki/doku.php?id=av:wii_multi_av_pinout

Don't know personally if this works, I don't want to tear up my only cable (right now).

When I first ordered (11/15) today was the day Nintendo said the cables would ship, but still nothing. Doesn't matter for me yet anyway since I still don't have my console.

In case anybody is interested, my back ordered component cables from Nintendo shipped today.

Mine shipped the 29th, after the order was placed on the 15th. However, I'd recommend against the cheap shipping; they won't arrive until the 6th.

On nintendos website I have a tracking # but UPS doesn't show it as valid. Argh. Its been like this for the past 3 days.

bn.com has them for sale,pre-order, will ship after 12/15

Cables are back in stock at the Nintendo store.

I placed an order yesterday morning as soon as I saw the message that all backorders were now shipping... mine still says backorder, but I'm hoping it ships before they are out of stock again.

Ordered one today. I need two so I'll be happy when I can get the first one in. If its a 3rd party or the Nintendo ones I just want the damn cbales. And Perrin to be fired for once again screwing with consumers. The woman should not be allowed to SPEAK.

Just noticed this on Nintendo's site:

"Due to limited supplies, Wii Component Video Cables orders are limited to one per household. Any duplicate orders will be canceled without notification."

Total bullcrap.

Oh, but on the plus side I did get my Nintendo component cables today. Glad I used 2-day shipping. I can't wait to try it later tonight!

I'm very pleased with the picture via component. Very noticeable improvements. Of course it's not a magic wand that fixes everything that might bug an HD snob, but it's a hell of a lot better than composite.

Cables are back in stock at the Nintendo store.

then for crying out loud why does my order say "preparing order" for 4 days now with a bogus tracking#?!

this sucks!

what time of the day did you guys get an update that they shipped?

it's 3:00 here and if they haven't made it to shipped stage yet, i can't imagine they're going to get picked up today. :(

sorry to whine like a girl, but i'm having a bunch of people over tomorrow night and wanted to get this thing installed in my theater downstairs. to do so, requires component cable.

My order changed around Noon today to shipped. The frustrating thing is that I asked for 2 day shipping but that means it won't be here until Monday - ARGH!@#

whoo hoo!! in stock again. i just placed my order. i can't wait!!! i hate composite!!!

Mine still do not show as shipped yet!!!! grrrrrr :(

"Your package is on time with a scheduled delivery date of 12/07/2006."

...

WTF!

I should just purchase in a store!

mine showed "shipped" on nintendo status yesterday (and a tracking number for 3 days) but it only just now showed up in ups as " In Transit - Rescheduled "
Rescheduled Delivery: 12/04/2006

Sadly, even though I paid for 2day, looks like I won't have it for the weekend, quite sad given my wii arrives tomorrow and I found a copy of zelda today... it would have been too perfect to get everything for the weekend... oh well... only few more days...

For those of you whose cables have shipped, when did you place your order? I placed mine back on the 21st, and it's still "preparing order".

my order was 11/20, nintendo claimed to have shipped it 11/29 but they really shipped it only last night :
REDMOND, WA, US 11/30/2006 7:57 P.M. ORIGIN SCAN

which means even though this was supposed to be here this week and I paid 2nd day expedited shipping, it won't... I guess I should have gone for overnight...

For those of you whose cables have shipped, when did you place your order?
Ordered 11/16 at 2:40am via 2nd day air. They arrived in town today and though I waited most of the day UPS took their sweet time and attempted delivery at 7:15pm when I couldn't be home. Round 2 tomorrow.

I ordered on 11/20. It had a bogus tracking number on it for the last three days and was in preparing order status like others have described.

I got a shipping confirmation last night. UPS said "Billing information recieved".

Something still isn't right though. I'd have expected to see a concrete scan by this morning but nogo.

I guess it gets here when it gets here. :( I'd have liked to have it by the weekend too, but I guess actually having a console when they are in tight supply is good enough.

I placed an order yesterday...Mine says backordered...Does anybody know when they are going to ship the next batch of component cables?

Placed my order on the 20th, billing info sent to UPS last night, received them today. Good thing I stuck with standard shipping. Driving over to Redmond a few days ago might have been faster. :p

Now just waiting on some RCA extensions . :(

Mine shipped today. As stated earlier, I ordered on the 21st of November.

Same here: ordered the 21st, and it finally says status: shipped: 12/1 but the tracking # is still not recognized

I ordered on the 30th and it says shipped today (Dec. 2nd). Tracking number isn't available yet, but I don't expect it to make it in UPS's system 'till Monday night.

...now if I can find a Wii to go with it! :o

I ordered on the 30th and it says shipped today (Dec. 2nd). Tracking number isn't available yet, but I don't expect it to make it in UPS's system 'till Monday night.

...now if I can find a Wii to go with it! :o

I understand. I have some games, extra Nunchuck, remote and components cables, but no Wii. :(

For those in NY, the Nintendo Superstore (Rockefeller Center) had a boatload of Wii's at 12:30pm. No extra remotes though. They also had component cables.

I too have Zelda and Component Cables and no wii :(

I too have Zelda and Component Cables and no wii :(

Keep trying... after about 10 hours into Zelda and just scratching the surface (I just now finally got bombs!), I think this is the best Zelda yet! :cool:

The Component Cables are crucial so text doesn't appear fuzzy on bigger displays, but don't expect sharp graphics. The Wii has a great personality and is fun to be around, but she isn't a looker. ;)

I got these Wii component cables -
http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-10z-77-1-49-en-15-component-70-1rch-43-bs.html

delivered last week. $15 shipped. Looks great on my Samsung plasma and Mitsu RP HDTV