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Inyx13
Newbie

how do I connect Roku to an old tv using an HDMI Modulator RF Converter RCA Coaxial

Long story short. Trying to add a Roku Express to a 1987 RCA TV.

I know the TV works, I've used it for playing dvds.

I know the Roku Express works, I took it into another room and hooked it up to a newer TV and it setup beautifully. Wi-fi, channel selection, live TV listings etc. No issues.

I bought an: HDMI Modulator RF Converter RCA Coaxial Composite VHF UHF SDR Demodulator Adapter w/Antenna in/Out & Channel Switch for Roku Fire Stick Cable Box HD Digital AV Component Video to Analog NTSC Coax TV. (Amazon description/product title)

Tried to loop the Roku through the converter to the TV, and no picture, no sound except static.

Any suggestions?

I really don't want to get rid of the TV and replace it with a newer type.

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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2 REPLIES 2
jontalk
Roku Guru

Re: how do I connect Roku to an old tv using an HDMI Modulator RF Converter RCA Coaxial

@Inyx13No offense but WHY would you want to watch UHD content on a TV with 420p resolution? As to the answer I have no idea since I've never heard of this kind of converter..Regardless I'd say its time to upgrade and Black Friday deals are crazy..saw a 75" for $398 today 🙂 Happy Holidays too

Power User (film maker)
Mill Valley, CA

Jonathan
Roku Ultra 4800R; LG OLED55B7A, ONKYO TX-NR636, Panasonic Blu Ray, Definitive Studio Monitor 450 (L/R), Definitive LCR 2000 (center), Definitive 10" sub-woofer, Definitive surrounds. Motorola MB8600 modem. Asus RT-AX68U WiFi 6 router. Western Digital Power Line network adapters
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atc98092
Community Streaming Expert

Re: how do I connect Roku to an old tv using an HDMI Modulator RF Converter RCA Coaxial

It appears to be hit or miss if an HDMI-Analog converter works with a Roku. Some have been successful, while others have the same issues you're having. So, it's possible another converter would work.

That said, depending on the size of your TV screen, I would really suggest replacing the TV.

  • First, your TV is analog only, so won't receive any TV station broadcasting today, since they are now all digital.
  • Second, your TV is only standard definition, while the vast majority of content available today is HD (720p minimum).
  • Third, your TV is the old 4:3 aspect ratio, while almost all content created since the 60s (not counting broadcast TV programs until the early '00s) is in some version of widescreen aspect ratio.
  • Finally, TVs really don't cost a lot today. A TV set from the 80s is likely no larger than 26". You can buy a brand new 40" 1080p set at Best Buy for $100, or a 32" 720p set from Amazon for $70, and you're spending $25 or more just for a converter that may or may not work. 
Dan

Roku Community Streaming Expert

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