Poor color output from Macbook compared to ATV

[Lara F]

Just wanted to know if GMA 950 (I have an older mid-97 white model) or the mini-DVI is to blame, or if there's something I'm missing and can hopefully correct. I just had the same file playing on my Macbook hooked up to my HDTV at the same time as the ATV and the difference was striking. The colors were much less vivid on the Macbook. The only difference is that I was using VGA instead of HDMI, but I'd be surprised if that was the main reason.

Thanks for any explanation!

 

[AllieNeko]

The TV settings could be different on the different inputs, or the color profile for the MacBook may not be as good. Try connecting the MacBook to the HDMI input on the TV just to rule out a difference in the inputs' settings, then start playing with color profiles.

 

[nullx86]

Just wanted to know if GMA 950 (I have an older mid-97 white model) or the mini-DVI is to blame, or if there's something I'm missing and can hopefully correct. I just had the same file playing on my Macbook hooked up to my HDTV at the same time as the ATV and the difference was striking. The colors were much less vivid on the Macbook. The only difference is that I was using VGA instead of HDMI, but I'd be surprised if that was the main reason.

Thanks for any explanation!

Your Apple TV actually runs a nvida graphics card (i think its a GeForce 7300, but i cant check, iFixit is down...) so the graphics are going to be better on the ATV. In the same aspect, Macbook screens have been known to have lesser quality screens then the Macbook Pro line, and your color settings may differ on the TV and the Macbook. Personally, I would say its time to trade that macbook for a 13" MBP. Better screen, graphics and overall better performance.

 

[Lara F]

I'm definitely debating that - my Macbook's been having some issues which require logic board replacement, but so far I haven't been able to bring myself to fork over nearly $300 on an old system. OTOH it's not even 3 years old since I got it August 07 and many posters on the Arrandale thread have hung on to G4 PB's. I'm paying the price for having bought near the end of a cycle I think...

Of course then the issue becomes new MBP or fix the Macbook and get a Mini (likely selling the ATV though the 3.01 UI is nice vs. Front Row).

 

[nullx86]

personally, if it was me, i would repair it myself (if it was something that required a soldering iron... or the likes of that, simple fixes ftw) or just put it to pasture and give it a simpler task and get a new MBP. I'd say wait till after the 27th to see what Apple is releasing, since nothing is confirmed, just that something new is coming. Btw, Mac Mini's, 13" MBPs and the baseline 15" MBP (iirc on the 15") have Nvidia 9400m graphics. Now these are certainly better then Intel GMA900 or GMA950, but they are still intergrated. Just a heads up. They run fine for me on my 24" iMac (specs in sig) and I can play source based games (TF2, CS:S, HL2, Ins.) at full res on medium settings, and run full bluray rips with no problem. Just beware the computers with 9400m wont be able to handle crysis, but can handle mostly everything else.