A gaming enthusiast and YouTuber has rescued a legendary CRT television from destruction in Japan. The monumental effort to transport the iconic 200-kilogram device to the United States highlights the growing appreciation for retro gaming hardware.
By Sadie Watkins
Retro Revival: The Rise of CRTs in Gaming
While most households have replaced bulky CRTs with sleek, high-definition flat screens, these older televisions are experiencing a resurgence among retro gaming fans. Praised for their low input lag and compatibility with classic light gun games like Duck Hunt for the NES, CRTs are increasingly seen as collector’s items. Enthusiasts value these nostalgic devices for the authentic gaming experience they provide. Some CRT models have become especially coveted, fetching high prices in niche markets. Among these, the Sony KX-45ED1, also known as the PVM-4300, holds a legendary status.
The Legendary Sony KX-45ED1
Manufactured in the 1980s, the Sony KX-45ED1 is an extraordinary CRT television with a 45-inch screen—double the size of most CRTs of its time. Originally priced at $40,000 (equivalent to $100,000 today), it was never a mainstream product, adding to its mystique. Few people have ever seen this behemoth outside of myths and collector stories. Determined to own this iconic TV, YouTuber Shank Mods began an intensive search in 2022. His journey, documented in a recently released video, highlights the lengths to which gaming enthusiasts will go to preserve such rare devices.
A Race Against Time in Japan
Shank Mods’ quest began with a tip about a KX-45ED1 potentially still existing in Japan. A 7-year-old blog post featured a photo of the television in an Osaka noodle restaurant. Working with a Japanese YouTuber, Shank Mods discovered that the restaurant was slated for demolition within days. Acting quickly, the pair contacted the owner, who agreed to part with the TV under one condition: Shank Mods would cover the transport costs.
Transporting a 200-Kilogram Treasure
Weighing in at 200 kilograms (plus a 78-kilogram stand), the TV posed significant logistical challenges. Shank Mods secured the help of a shipping company to transport the device to the United States. With costs rivaling that of a used car, the endeavor was only made possible through sponsorship.
Today, the rescued KX-45ED1 serves as both a relic of gaming history and a testament to the dedication of retro gaming fans.
Based on content from www.futurezone.at and own research.