Best setup?

[j_factor]

What's the best setup for Genesis and Sega CD games?

[Joe Redifer]

Component video and stereo audio. Actualy direct RGB would probably be a bit better than component. J/K

I prefer the looks and functionality of the Model 1 - model 1. The model 2 CD unit and whatever Genesis unit you have will probably have the highest cances of working.

[David J.]

I like the look of the Model 2 console and Model 2 CD the best. However I have a Model 1 console and a Model 2 CD, and it looks kind of funny.

I want to get a model 2 so I can relegate the Model 1 to PBC/Virtua Racing/Backup system duty. They have one or two at the pawnshop but I don't really trust them when it comes to game systems.

[darkwingduck13]

I've got a spiffy, shiny model 1 Genesis with a pretty nice model 2 Sega CD, and I think it works and looks great. I like the look of the Genesis 1 over the Genesis 2, and I like the functionality of the CD 2, so it all works out well for me. :D

[chewy]

Mmmmmmmm, MultiMega! :D

[David J.]

I don't like the Multimega/CDX due to incompatablity with a few games, like the Terminator, which is one of my fav games.

These games don't work on it:
Jurassic Park (works, but takes a VERY LONG TIME to load)
Radical Rex
Terminator
Who Shot Johnny Rock?

[Joe Redifer]

Why won't they work? Does the CDX have a Z80? Terminator is the only semi-decent game on that list, fortunately.

[David J.]

I asked on a message board a long, long time ago. And I was told that there was only one 68000 in the CDX instead of two like a normal Genesis and Sega CD, and as a result those games crash because they are looking for two cpu's, or something like that. Data collision to be exact.

[Joe Redifer]

That is so odd. Those are games that I wouldn't think would use two CPUs. Terminator likely runs off of the Genesis CPU at about 52% power. Jurassic Park probably has the Z80 do EVERYTHING (have you played it? It is AWFUL).

[David J.]

Every revsion of the Genesis 1/2/3, Nomad has some version of a Z80, some are full cpus, or some have features removed.

[Zebbe]

I haven't voted yet, and I don't even have the Mega CD yet, but I'm getting one with a Mega Drive, both model 2, and a 32X. Then I have a model 1 with MSC and a model 2 with 32X and CD. You don't need a lot of extra stuff if you go for a MD2 with 32X/CD.

[j_factor]

Jurassic Park for Sega CD isn't awful at all! :shock:

[Joe Redifer]

Yeah it is. Oh man I almost died when I rented that.

[Dartagnan1083]

Yeah, how unfortunate for us :roll:
;)

[David J.]

I'm looking at buying a Model 1 Sega CD. I saw one at the store, and if it's cheap and working, it'll be mine.

[David J.]

And I bought it, it sure is sexy!

[MegaDrive20XX]

I've always been a fan of the "BATTLESHIP" look. Model 2 with Model 2 Sega CD

[Polterguy]

The model 2 genesis power and reset buttons in my opinion were somewhat poorly designed as over the years, they would wear and become the reason for the unit's failure/demise. I'm a genesis model 1 guy all the way.

[WarmSignal]

I see the logical choice as the CDX. Why anyone would prefer the older, clunkier setups (other than for nostalgia) I can't quite understand.

[WarmSignal]

I don't like the Multimega/CDX due to incompatablity with a few games, like the Terminator, which is one of my fav games.

These games don't work on it:
Jurassic Park (works, but takes a VERY LONG TIME to load)
Radical Rex
Terminator
Who Shot Johnny Rock?

What do you mean they won't work? Why wouldn't they work? Maybe your discs were bad, or your laser is going or something.

Nevermind, I read the response you wrote. I hope that's just a load of bs like the whole "32X don't work with CDX" bit. Otherwise, I'm gonna kick some ass, because I recently ordered some of those games!

[jerry coeurl]

I like the Model 1 Genesis and the Model 2 Sega CD. It looks grrrrreat as long as you have the little plastic foot-thingy so the Genesis doesn't stick out over the edge of the SCD. Which I do.

I feel like I am alone in this, but I really don't like the Model 1 SCD. I like that it fits under the Genesis, but I hate the fact that the system has to be powered on to change games, that always seemed so clunky to me. I really like top-loading CD consoles in general I guess.

[crazyteknohed]

I didn't vote for any as the Wondermega wasn't there :(

[TmEE]

MD1+MCD1 or MD2+MCD2... I prefer audio modded MD2 and MCD2 over anything...

Wondermega has nice sound options, but its overall having quite poor sound on its MD side...

[mick_aka]

MD1 + MCD1 + 32X + RGB SCART = TMFW!

[Jesse813]

JVC X'eye

Looks good and you get a Genesis & SEGA CD all in one unit :D

[Christuserloeser]

To answer the initial question: Thing is, if you want decent hardware to play SegaCD games, it doesn't matter whether you're using model#1 or model#2 hardware (the later of which includes anything from Wondermega to LaserActive to CDX). But for optimimum performance on cartridge based games you will need a model #1 with HD logo - as even Wondermega and co. are based on the inferior model #2 sound hardware.


If you definitely can't be bothered to switch between your Mega Drive and your LaserActive, then you will at least be glad to hear that with cartridge based games the difference in sound quality of your Wondermega/X'eye/LaserActive/CDX in comparision to Model #1 hardware isn't really anywhere near as bad as to whatever apocalyptic garbage a real Model #2 Mega Drive / Genesis outputs. It's just not as good.

Think of the difference between your average 128kbps MP3 vs CD, instead of that of a DVD vs an old VHS tape.




MD1+MCD1 or MD2+MCD2... I prefer audio modded MD2 and MCD2 over anything...

Yeah. I really think that that's the best option! - If you prefer MD2+MCD2, send your stuff to TmEE, folks.

[sasuke]

I agree with TMEE's opinion, too. I think they look best when they are an original Genesis/Megadrive and the Sega CD they're designed for. Anything else and it would look awkward.

I chose the MD2+MCD2 one because of this and the CD drive is much more reliable. You can even change music cd's with games that use CDDAs. :)

Also, although I like the design of the model 1's better (Especially the headphone jack), I like the second model because it is much more common, and the "audio quality" is a bit overblown in these forums. ;)

[17daysolderthannes]

I see the logical choice as the CDX. Why anyone would prefer the older, clunkier setups (other than for nostalgia) I can't quite understand.

mostly because CDX's are rare and cost out the ass. The model 1 and especially the model 2 are much more common.

[j_factor]

The CDX also has very weak video hardware -- modding it for s-video usually involves an internal amp mod as well.

[David J.]

What do you mean they won't work? Why wouldn't they work? Maybe your discs were bad, or your laser is going or something.

Nevermind, I read the response you wrote. I hope that's just a load of bs like the whole "32X don't work with CDX" bit. Otherwise, I'm gonna kick some ass, because I recently ordered some of those games!

I don't really know, but that's what I read almost a decade ago... doubt it's really true, but eh, I don't care.

[Christuserloeser]

I like the second model because it is much more common, and the "audio quality" is a bit overblown in these forums. ;)

This is treason! ;) - but then again, you'd only say that if you haven't heard the difference.


Anyway, the question which is the best setup is not a question of taste. It is something that can be determined by research. When you say you agree with TmEE's option, please note that he specifically mentioned his audio modded MD2.

- Throughout the past year or so, TmEE and me did loads and loads of recordings and we reached the conclusion that the early model #1 with High Definition logo and his audio modded MD2 do provide by far the best sound; with only the Nomad coming close. They do sound different due to different mixers (and a different variant of the sound chip), and I guess you could say that this actually could be a matter of taste as to what you'd prefer: TmEE's CCAM sounds a good bit 'cleaner', while I would describe the HD1 model#1 as having more bass (while it in fact actually does lower the higher pitched frequencies, but not at all like regular off-the-shelf model#2 based hardware does).

Although we weren't the first to notice that (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mega_Drive#cite_note-Audio_Mixing_in_model_.232_hardware_revisions-66), we did go the extra mile to include Wondermega and X'eye in our reseach, and I think someone recently contributed with LaserActive recordings, but don't quote me on that.

[kgenthe]

I voted CDX. It's an all-in-one machine that doesn't require two power bricks. I got mine for a reasonable price a decade ago for $70 and it still works great. It's also the smallest option out there. I also like the fact that no one I know has seen or heard of one, good conversation piece;)

I also have a Model 2 Sega CD and Genesis, not nearly as elegant.

[Baloo]

I like the look of the CDX the best. Portable and small and able to fit into small spaces. Also the best working version out of the 3 disc drives.

The Model 1 Genesis and Model 1 Sega CD looks really really nice though. That would be my runner-up right there. I don't like the Sega-CD Model 2 "garbage can" look myself though.

[Black_Tiger]

Model 1/Model 1 looks best, but Multi Mega/CDX is the most convenient.

I'd stick to a MM/CDX if it weren't for the sound issues, so I always use a Hi-Def Genesis and multi-bios Mega-CD 2.

[jerry coeurl]

I really don't like the way the CDX looks, mainly because I hate the CD player buttons on the front of the console, they just look so stupid and out of place to me.

[kool kitty89]

I really don't like the way the CDX looks, mainly because I hate the CD player buttons on the front of the console, they just look so stupid and out of place to me.

It was kind of a silly idea to add the portable cd player utility to it, it was too expensive, heavy (for a portable CD player) and had a mediocre battery life. (not to mention the audio quality wasnt that great for a CD player)

Had Sega just went with a compact MD+CD combo, it probably would have cost significantly less and been more sucessful. (given the compact and consolidated motherboard and overall smaller unit, it should have been quite a bit cheaper to produce than the MD and CD seperately)

The locking spindle is certainly a nice feature, and it does have a sleek look to it.

[Chilly Willy]

I don't like the Sega-CD Model 2 "garbage can" look myself though.

I'm looking at mine... I don't see it. In what way does the MD2 CD resemble a garbage can? :confused:

[nissling]

Model 1 cart system, model 1 CD.

Even if I have a Sega CD 2, I like the first model better. But of course I have a Mega Drive/Genesis 1 and not model 2. :)

[TmEE]

I voted CDX. It's an all-in-one machine that doesn't require two power bricks.

Well, by putting one small wire into a MCD, you will only need single AC brick to power everything.... you will have to find a more powerful brick though as the MD1 or MD2 stock brick is barely enough.

[sasuke]

This is treason! ;) - but then again, you'd only say that if you haven't heard the difference.


Anyway, the question which is the best setup is not a question of taste. It is something that can be determined by research. When you say you agree with TmEE's option, please note that he specifically mentioned his audio modded MD2.

- Throughout the past year or so, TmEE and me did loads and loads of recordings and we reached the conclusion that the early model #1 with High Definition logo and his audio modded MD2 do provide by far the best sound; with only the Nomad coming close. They do sound different due to different mixers (and a different variant of the sound chip), and I guess you could say that this actually could be a matter of taste as to what you'd prefer: TmEE's CCAM sounds a good bit 'cleaner', while I would describe the HD1 model#1 as having more bass (while it in fact actually does lower the higher pitched frequencies, but not at all like regular off-the-shelf model#2 based hardware does).

Although we weren't the first to notice that (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mega_Drive#cite_note-Audio_Mixing_in_model_.232_hardware_revisions-66), we did go the extra mile to include Wondermega and X'eye in our reseach, and I think someone recently contributed with LaserActive recordings, but don't quote me on that.

Sorry :D.
Anyway I knew about this mod, and I might try that once I have someone to help me with it (or if I can afford shipping to Estonia :D). I just don't like the "tone" of the wikipedia article, as it sounds like the early models are the only ones worth buying. :) Anyway after hearing the "source," I do like the sound of the Old model, but I like the modded newer one's sound better, and I do not mind the unmodded one, either.

[17daysolderthannes]

Sorry :D.
Anyway I knew about this mod, and I might try that once I have someone to help me with it (or if I can afford shipping to Estonia :D). I just don't like the "tone" of the wikipedia article, as it sounds like the early models are the only ones worth buying. :) Anyway after hearing the "source," I do like the sound of the Old model, but I like the modded newer one's sound better, and I do not mind the unmodded one, either.

what are you talking about? the high def model one IS the only one worth buying, especially since they sell for $20 complete on eBay easily. Shit, I have one of the best condition high def model 1s in America and it came with everything and an extra controller for $20 shipped. Most people don't know about the hardware revisions, so they don't bid more for better ones.

[Baloo]

I'm looking at mine... I don't see it. In what way does the MD2 CD resemble a garbage can? :confused:

Well, open it up and then look at it.

[jerry coeurl]

I'm looking at mine right now, I don't see the garbage can either.

[Iron Lizard]

Oh I'll find a way to shove some trash in there!! :)

[WarmSignal]

what are you talking about? the high def model one IS the only one worth buying, especially since they sell for $20 complete on eBay easily. Shit, I have one of the best condition high def model 1s in America and it came with everything and an extra controller for $20 shipped. Most people don't know about the hardware revisions, so they don't bid more for better ones.

I suppose you're right, I didn't think "high def" was even relevant to anything in 1992. I don't know anything about the revisions, but then again it doesn't really matter to me.

[Baloo]

I suppose you're right, I didn't think "high def" was even relevant to anything in 1992. I don't know anything about the revisions, but then again it doesn't really matter to me.

Probably not, but when a console is revised or changed it's almost always to cut costs (or it's some special edition of the console like the Pikachu N64 or the Hello Kitty Dreamcast), so in general logic terms even you could deduce that the "Hi-Definition Graphics" Model 1's are the best version of the console.

[Chilly Willy]

Well, open it up and then look at it.

And? It looks like 99% of all portable CD players ever made. Certainly doesn't look like a trashcan - well not any kind I've ever seen. Maybe they just happen to have a trashcan where you live that looks that way.

To me, it looks like a portable CD player stuck to the side of the MD2, and both stuck on top of a base meant to hold the two flat. It's actually a very nice design. I like it better (slightly) than the MD1 MD+CD.

[WarmSignal]

http://www.freeimagehosting.net/uploads/09a129a475.gif

http://www.freeimagehosting.net/uploads/571b8d91f7.jpg

I must say, the resemblance is striking...

[Baloo]

http://www.freeimagehosting.net/uploads/09a129a475.gif

http://www.freeimagehosting.net/uploads/571b8d91f7.jpg

I must say, the resemblance is striking...

Someone agrees with me at least.

[Chilly Willy]

http://www.freeimagehosting.net/uploads/09a129a475.gif

http://www.freeimagehosting.net/uploads/571b8d91f7.jpg

I must say, the resemblance is striking...

Okay, that is WEIRD. Never seen a trashcan like that before. Nothing even close. I'd almost swear someone made that AFTER looking at the SEGA CD as an homage. :huh:

[17daysolderthannes]

http://www.freeimagehosting.net/uploads/09a129a475.gif

http://www.freeimagehosting.net/uploads/571b8d91f7.jpg

I must say, the resemblance is striking...

I also like to put my Model 2 on a pedestal to worship it, as seen in picture 2.

[mick_aka]

I like to throw banana peel and shitty diapers into mine.

[WarmSignal]

I like to throw banana peel and shitty diapers into mine.

One of the FMV titles, I presume.

[Melf]

http://www.freeimagehosting.net/uploads/09a129a475.gif

http://www.freeimagehosting.net/uploads/571b8d91f7.jpg

I must say, the resemblance is striking...

It'd be cool if that trash can had a little Sonic wagging his finger at you if you tried to toss in recycables. :p

[Christuserloeser]

Anyway I knew about this mod, and I might try that once I have someone to help me with it (or if I can afford shipping to Estonia :D). I just don't like the "tone" of the wikipedia article, as it sounds like the early models are the only ones worth buying. :) Anyway after hearing the "source," I do like the sound of the Old model, but I like the modded newer one's sound better, and I do not mind the unmodded one, either.

I think that the track that was chosen to demonstrate the difference is a bit of an unlucky choice. It's a very dry, cold and metallic sounding track with sparse intrumentation.

The comparisions we did, we did with various tracks, mainly Streets of Rage 2, Golden Axe, Ristar, and such. The difference to an unmodded model#2 is much more noticable with these tracks. Also, the sound quality of the model#2s does vary greatly. Some might sound exactly as acceptable as Wondermega/X'eye/LaserActive/CDX, others do sound awfully distorted. In the end you never can be sure what to expect, which makes it such a bad choice.

[mick_aka]

One of the FMV titles, I presume.

One of the better ones.

[Chilly Willy]

I have to admit, those are cool trashcans! Where do I find them? I could put that in the game room next to the SEGA. :D

[WarmSignal]

I have to admit, those are cool trashcans! Where do I find them? I could put that in the game room next to the SEGA. :D

One you can find on Ebay listed as "broken Sega CD" for relatively cheap.

The other is actually touchless, meaning it swings open with a sensor when you get ready to toss something in it. It's actually quite nice, but it is a bit pricey.

http://www.amazon.com/Infrared-Trash-Can-Touchless-7-9-Gallon-Steel-Stainless/dp/B000IF97LK/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1239516397&sr=8-4

[Chilly Willy]

One you can find on Ebay listed as "broken Sega CD" for relatively cheap.

The other is actually touchless, meaning it swings open with a sensor when you get ready to toss something in it. It's actually quite nice, but it is a bit pricey.

http://www.amazon.com/Infrared-Trash-Can-Touchless-7-9-Gallon-Steel-Stainless/dp/B000IF97LK/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1239516397&sr=8-4

That's pretty nifty all right, but also pricey. I'll have to pinch some pennies and keep an eye on eBay in the meantime. :D

[Sudo]

Model 1/Model 1 will always be my favorite combo.