Aspect ratio switcher?
 

I operate a Canon XH A1, which of course can't output letterboxed 4:3 SD video. And of course, I have a sweet little Sony 13" Sony CRT field monitor that I can't use, because it stretches my 16:9 image into a 4:3 image, making monitoring useless.

Is there a cheap device out there that will convert a 16:9 signal into a 4:3 letterbox signal, so that I may use my free monitor?

Thanks for any suggestions.

What kind of monitor do you have? Analog? Isn't it possible to "squash" the image into 16:9 proportion using the vertical size control? On some models these controls might be inside the case and you will need to open it up (DANGER - high voltage stored in condensers can zap you even when it is unplugged!)

With Sony TV's you can enter a "secret code" using the remote control to enter service mode and adjust all kinds of parameters, including this. I used it to turn my Sony WEGA 4:3 TV into a 16:9 monitor a number of years ago. Try googling with some terms like "sony service mode 16:9" for info on this.

No vertical size control on this thing. Any more suggestions anyone?