Perifractic's VIC-II² – C64 PAL/NTSC Switch

Q: Which is better; NTSC or PAL?
A: Both!

This source-and-build-it-yourself kit for old 1982+ breadbin Commodore 64 computers designed by Perifractic's Retro Recipes and 1STAGE will allow your C64 to switch between PAL (Europe/Australia) and NTSC (North America) video output modes, to maximise the best-of-both-worlds in software compatibility, picture quality, nostalgia, speed, resolution, and more. It packs LumaFix64 on board to improve the C64's notorious vertical image banding too.

Important system requirements:

1. Only compatible with ASSY 250407 / 250425 / 250466 breadbin C64 motherboards (you'll find this number printed on the motherboard).

2. Not compatible with slimline C64C cases or the SX-64 or C128 - this only fits 'breadbin' original C64 style cases due to the lower C64C keyboard. Sorry there is not enough demand for other models to justify the cost of designing adaptations.

3. Your monitor must support both PAL & NTSC or you will see a black & white image, or no image at all - please check its specs before ordering (if yours doesn't most "upscaler" devices will, such as the XRGB Mini found in my recommended tech tools)

4. You'll need a 6567 (NTSC) plus a 6569 (PAL) VIC-II chip; any "R"evision will work. eBay recommended (see below).

5. Requires soldering experience. Parts may differ slightly from those shown.

6. This product design is provided 'not-for-profit' and without warranty. However you can post technical support requests at the official forum thread where the community and developers can respond.

Get your VIC-II² parts

First, get your 2 video chips:

Note: You will have one of these already in your C64, so just order the one you don't have already, to make a pair.

1. Order a tested NTSC VIC-II chip from eBay
2. Order a tested PAL VIC-II chip from eBay

Next, order the VIC-II² switcher parts:

1. Get these components from Amazon
2. And the rest from Mouser
3. Order a PCB from PCBWayyy for your ASSY 250407 or 250425/250466 motherboard
4. Optional: Download EAGLE PCB files & schematic from ЯR

When the parts arrive, build your VIC-II²:

1. Watch video guide above
2. Carefully follow build instructions from ЯR

Polite Disclaimer:

If you opt to order, build and install the VIC-II² in the notoriously sensitive and unpredictable (yet lovable) vintage Commodore 64s, you do so entirely at your own risk. We cannot be held responsible for any damage or faults caused to your C64, components, yourself, or otherwise, by incorrect or even correct use of this 'not-for-profit' hobbyist do-it-yourself design - which is offered here without warranty or support due to the cost that would have added. The installation process is intended only for users highly competent with electronics engineering and soldering. Thank you. Above all else we hope you enjoy bringing VIC-II the future!