How to Connect the Wii to a VCR Using AV Cables

Wii & Wii mini

In this article, you'll learn how to connect the Wii to a VCR, DVD-R, cable box, or satellite box using AV Cables.

Some DVD Recorders also have DVR (i.e. TiVo) functionality. The DVR system will digitize the input signal a delay of up to one second, and can make playing a video game extremely difficult.
In order to connect a video game system through a device such as a VCR, DVR, cable or satellite box, it must have Video and Audio inputs. While most VCRs and VCR/DVD combos have these inputs, other devices typically have outputs which will not work for playing your Wii console. Please verify that the device you are attempting to use has these inputs.

Complete these steps

Make sure that the VCR is properly connected to the TV.
Turn on the TV and VCR and set the TV to the appropriate channel to view a movie (typically channel 3 or 4). If the VCR is connected via AV cables, the TV may need to be on the proper Input Select.
Place the VCR in VCR mode by either playing a movie and stopping it (but not turning the VCR off) or by pressing the TV/VCR button.
Insert the AV Multi Out plug of the Wii AV Cable into the AV Multi Out connector on the back of the console.
Insert the colored connectors on the Wii AV Cable into the input connectors on the VCR. Make sure you are plugging the connectors into the holes labeled Input or In. Holes labeled Output or Out will not work.
- The Wii console supports Dolby Pro Logic II for simulated surround sound. You can set up this feature if you have a surround sound stereo.
Once the cables are inserted and the Wii is powered on, put the TV on the channel used to watch movies (usually channel 3 or 4). Put a video tape into the VCR and play the movie. When the movie appears, press stop (do not power off the VCR!).
Find the Input Select for the VCR to view the game. This is usually a button on the original remote control labeled Input Select, AUX, Input, EXT, Line In, or a high or low channel.