I'm looking for a new AV switcher--one that has at least four inputs and supports composite and s-video. It would be great if one supports component as well. I truly am interested in a switch that converts signals to composite, s-video, or component, as this is what my current model does. I have a thrift shop-purchased switcher that I have been using for a while now. However, two of the inputs are now flaky, not showing video or distorting video and sound. The inputs show corrosion when I open up the box and cleaning the nooks and crannies is difficult and did nothing to help. The unique part about the box is that it converts all signals to composite or s-video, depending on which cable you plugged into the output port. The device I am using is a Radio Shack 15-1977 four port AV selector. There is a non-powered version which has one output port - model 15-1976. Has anyone tried this model? The reason the 15-1977 is powered is most likely because it splits the signal to two output ports and may boost the signal. The main reason for not getting the same box is that I noticed this switcher drops all the color levels down, making the image look muted instead of like a videogame. It also darkens the image and adds a weird smoothing effect.
