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I'm all about mixing the old with the new, and CRT TVs are my latest obsession. If you're like me, loving the glow of retro technology, then you'll get a kick out of this.
Here's how you can turn those vintage screens into an epic art installation:
Hunt down some CRT TVs – garage sales, Facebook Marketplace, you name it. Look for ones that have a (yellow) composite input.
Now, here's a pro tip: Grab some steel shelving designed for garage storage. Not only does it give you a sturdy multi-tiered wall, but it's also collapses flat for (relatively) easy transport.
Connect all those beautiful CRTs to something like the Extron MAV, which are plentiful on eBay. Matrix switchers like these can route any video input to any output. It's basically an all-in-one switcher and splitter.
Like I do in the video, you also might want to build a portable case for your matrix switcher that also includes a power conditioner, so that you can easily power your array of CRTs.
A USB to RS232 adapter does the trick. It's the bridge between your computer and that wall of vintage tech goodness.
AVsync.LIVE Matrix is the remote control for the whole setup. Just connect your computer to the matrix switcher using the USB to RS232 adapter.
Save and play around with presets, and become the master of your video routing with a few keyboard taps. It's free to use, and doesn't even require a download.
To understand how it all fits together, study this infographic. Using this setup, you can send multiple outputs and control the video routing patterns of the TVs from one computer. And with the ethernet adapters, you can send those signals 100ft+.
If you're not convinced it's worth it, I invite you to watch this video to change your mind.
Total damage: $250-1500
So there you have it. A step-by-step guide to building your very own wall of retro-futuristic nostalgia. Have fun with it, experiment, and prove to your friends it's not all just about 4K. Let's keep the CRT love alive! Please message me on Instagram if you have any questions.