Some people who purchased the GamesCare SCART and YPbPr component video switches were having issues with certain audio sounds sounding like they were “clipping”, or getting distorted. The problem has been determined and if your switch is having the issue, there’s a few options. First, if you purchased it from VGP, you can send it back to have the fix applied. You can also attempt the fix yourself, or have a modder do it for you. All switches sold from this point on will be sold with the fix implemented, so this won’t be an issue any longer. Also, GamesCare posted a firmware update for the SCART switch that includes some fixes and additions; Check the VGP post for details and more info on the fix below:
VGP Post: https://videogameperfection.com/2025/02/17/fixing-gamescare-switch/
SCART Switch VGP: https://retrorgb.link/gamescare82scartuk
YPbPr VGP: https://retrorgb.link/gamescare6componenteu
GamesCare Brazil: https://gamescare.com.br/
Firmware v2.1: https://www.retrorgb.com/assets/gcswitch-firmware-v2.1.zip
I think the most important thing to note before reading further, is there is not a safety issue with either switch. This is an audio quality issue and if you don’t have the problem (or have it rare enough to not care), then you can just continue using it as-is and never worry about damaged equipment.
Next, the fix requires you to install a buck converter, as well as lift some pins and swap out a small, surface-mounted component. So, while it’s not what I’d call “hard”, it’s definitely not for beginners either. Also, you’ll want to pay close attention to which mods are needed for either switch, as the fix isn’t the same on both. And note that if you bought a SCART Expansion, you’ll need to perform a mod on that, as well as the main unit. The above VGP post details what you’ll need, including pictures and links to the exact parts to buy.
Lastly, the switch firmware update isn’t related to the audio fix at all, however there’s some fixes and features added. I offered to host the update file here on RetroRGB to make things easier, but if you’re reading this far after the post went public, you might want to check their website to see if there’s a newer one. Here’s the full list of changes to the previous firmware:
- User selectable pin 16 signal voltage – Allows for full compatibility with older CRT TVs that require appropriate signal voltage on SCART pin 16
- Faster start up time
- Automatic over-the-air updates for any future firmware
- LCD Menu allowing configuration of advanced features without the need for a Wi-FI connection
