I forgot to mention the High Definition Graphics Model ONE I used in the video is also the Non-TMSS model which is compatible with more games including early imports and unlicensed games. Info from Straypixels: So if your Sega Genesis, when booting a game, does NOT display “Produced by or under license of Sega Enterprises Ltd.” you have a non-TMSS unit.
I don't want to potentially sound like a jerk, because the video was informative. Sorry for the text wall. If the shell gap left by the EXT. removal on a textless system is to the right of the AV/RF/DC inputs, that's indeed a VA7. Now, if on the left, it's a 6.x, which is just as good as a late HD Graphics console. Additionally, the very early ones (JP launch/first couple revisions including the US launch) have bad crackling and distortion on games with loud audio. TMSS was baked into every licensed game from the start (JP launch titles are a mess though), just proper output wasn't implemented until later. It has nothing to do with region locks. Only imported games from before late '92~early '93 will work that way anyhow. Most published afterwards will have soft region locks that require a mod. I can't run Streets of Rage 2 on my pre-TMSS Japanese model 1, for example. The Genesis 3 was actually manufactured by Sega, albeit in Korea. While Majesco did manufacture game re-releases, the system itself was Sega-made. You'd have to open it to really tell, though.
@@8-Bit_Flashback I'm a bit obsessed with this stuff. Helps to have several variants of this beast for testing too; especially if I want to make homebrews work on real hardware.
Great Video! I was lucky enough to own the 1989 HI-Def Graphic, No TMSS, 2 tone logo Genesis made in Japan. ( most were made in Taiwan) I was also lucky enough to work for Sega in the late 80’s in South San Francisco. By working there I was able to get the phone modem. Still have it to this day. We use to play Cyberball on the modem.
About Genesis One without "High Definition Graphics" inscription - have one of those myself, but WITH "EXT" port on the back and VA-5 mainboard inside, wich is one of best sounding Genesis mainboards.
As a kid, I had a model 1 Sega Genesis. I'm pretty sure it was the first variant because I remember it had the high definition graphics logo on the top. I also like that the Sega Genesis Mini is based on that model Genesis.
HD Retrovision cables have really amazed me and have breathed new life into my retro consoles when connected to a nice CRT such as my 27" JVC i'Art. Great video!
I’m sticking with model 2. Looks the best, didn’t need to deal with the bs for add ons and I personally believe it looks the best on crts. The sound may not be as good to some people but I still like it.
I like the cosmetics of the Model 2 as well even tho my 1st Genesis was the model 1. IMO Get the triple bypass and use HD Retrovision cables and you'll love your model 2 even more!
@@dwightdixon8508 I’ve been wanting to get the hd retrovision cables for a while, it’s definitely something on my radar. I wasn’t aware of the triple bypass option that’s something I’m going to look into, thanks for that suggestion
I younger brother used to own the Model 1 Genesis but I was a Nintendo fanboy. Never really got into that system until I got older and now I believe it is as great as the Super Nintendo. I'll own the model 1 sometime soon. My model 2's sound output is at best a 3 out of 5.
IMO Keep your model 2 and have the triple bypass installed (also use HD Retrovision component cables). It will cut out a lot of time trying to get a good working and best variant of the model 1, maybe less $$$ too and will be better pretty much in every way. Just a suggestion
These videos are great. I had no idea the amount of support there was for the Genesis still. That power supply for all 3 systems is like a gift from god
That motion blur you are talking about is actually present in the games mostly in 2D platformers. Its harder to see it on a CRTV but its there. The reason why you see it less on the hd retrovision cables is because most take that image coming from the hd retrovision cables and set there TV to 4:3 ratio which gives you the best picture similar to a CRTV size, the motion blur is still there but not as noticeable. The Hyperkin cables can give you that same similar image. Similar to a CRTV size, but you have to have it set to 16:9 on the Hyperkin box then adjust your TV to 4:3 ratio which will give you less motion blur like the Retrovision cables. So for anyone using RGB route the best way is to have your TV format set to 4:3 not normal. The best way to test is if you have a good CRTV what your CRTV is showing is what you want your Flatscreen showing. Yes some of the picture is missing but that was missing also when looking at the same game on a CRTV.
So I have a high definition model 1 that sounds just as good as my launch model 1. Could there be some model 1 variations that still keep the good sound chips inside?
Fun fact, for the Genesis Mini, (I'm from the UK by the way) I've actually replace my PAL Mega Drive Mini with a USA Genesis Mini, I actually got the US one from Santa Claus in 2020, want to know why I changed it? Because the game 'Sonic Spinball' actually plays the European version but modified to play in 60HZ, you may be thinking, not bad, but your wrong, the music was optimized for PAL releases so it plays faster on the PAL Mini and USA Minis set to German or Italian (not English, French or Spanish or even Japanese versions if set to Japanese, Chinese or Korean). Japanese version did play in standard music and game speed 60HZ on PAL Mega Drive Minis, but some text is in Japanese. In addition, 5 other games 'Landstalker: Treasures Of King Nole', 'Light Crusader', 'Beyond Oasis' aka 'The Story Of Thor', 'Castlevania: Bloodlines' aka 'Castlevania: The New Generation' aka 'Vampire Killer' and 'Contra: Hard Corps' aka 'Probotector' all play PAL versions in 60HZ when set to English, but will play US versions when set to either Chinese or Korean. European Mega Drive Mini sucks, USA Genesis Mini cool, Japanese and Asian Mega Drive Minis cool but different games on both models (meaning not just US/PAL systems, but even JP and Asian systems are different to each other, example: 'Sonic The Hedgehog' [the first game] is available on US/PAL and Asian systems but not Japanese systems).
If anyone is interested in modding the Insurrection Industries Triple bypass mod is the best thing for any model Genesis. Couple that with HD Retrovision cables and you're set!
If the power input Jack is on the corner at back of the console, it will have the best sound regardless of weather it has high definition graphics on it. The poor sounding model ones have the power input Jack a couple inches away from the corner more towards the middle. The difference is visible on the model ones you have in this video and would be even more obvious when the power cables are in.
I don't understand what you mean by this.... "A couple inches away from the corner more towards the middle"? The middle of what? Edit: nevermind, I figured it out by looking at mine and comparing it to others online. Mine has the power input on the corner. Can you tell me why this makes a difference though? Thanks.
Because these where released at around the same time or shortly after the launch consoles with the only difference being cosmetic and the region lock, before Sega started revising the boards and components inside the consoles. The ones with the power barrel away from the corner had internal changes to the board, so they could make them for a lower cost presumably. Which pretty much all console makers do to this day, although they seem more careful not to impact performance these days.
The best Sega Genesis is the first Model 1's with the words "High Definition Graphics" written around the ring. They have the best picture and sound quality out of all of them. Unfortunately, that is the way of the tech world. As a console sells the parts used to make them become cheaper. That's when slim models hit that use cheaper parts. It was done back then as it is today. This is but one reason I am an early adopter of all things console gaming.
Any revision of the model 1 prior to VA7 has good audio, and you can always tell VA7 in a US Genesis by the position of the power jack and the lack of even a space for the EXT port. I have a VA6 that has a blank where the EXT port normally is. On Japanese consoles it's a little different because Japanese model 1 mega drives never had an RF modulator, and so the power jack and multi-out are in a similar position to the US VA7. However I have not found any instances of a Japanese VA6 missing the EXT port. If you open the console up, a VA7 is always obvious because it will only have one voltage regulator instead of two, and it's missing the massive 64-pin DIP version of the CPU. It should be easy to tell even without removing the RF shield.
7:25 I know I sound like a caveman, but I think that the batmobile looked better in composite, the blur actually made it look more like a smooth image than sharp pixel art.
The Best is the MD2 with VA4 motherboard. Stereo sound and audio quality same level as MD1. Other MD2 models are crap. But this one is holy grail and got one
It might sound weird, but I actually prefer the look of composite. The fuzziness kind of hides the pixelation and makes everything look a lot smoother.
Or just hunt down a late model 2 3/4 board revision aka VA3/ VA4 these already have great picture and stereo sound identical to a HDG model 1. I know I own both and cannot tell the difference both are hooked up with composite
@@mattmaverick703 but if you're using an HDMI adapter such as RADX, does the picture quality for composite still matter? In other words, will using RAD2X with any model 2 give the same picture quality?
@@ultraspinalki11 I own a High quality television it will take the composite on my Genesis and configure it to look HD . I also have my PS2 hooked up composite with S-Video and it looks great
I also love the 3-btn controller when the 6 is not needed. I hope someone begins to sell a 3d printed d-pad for it though that is softer and much closer to the 6btn and saturn dpads which were less harsh on the thumbs compared to the 3 btn's dpad.
They actually made 3 buttons controllers with the dpad of the 6 button--I'm guessing they hit the market right before the 6 buttons did, so they were mixing parts. I had one, but accidentally threw it out (yea, i blew it lol). Go to 11:15 in the video and watch him push the dpad. See how easily it moves? That's it!
@@RaGeNyC I have one like that one, and I'd say its dpad is better than the one I got with my Genesis (red accents; stiffer dpad). The dpad wasn't as good as the 6 btn from what I remember (loaned the 6btn to a friend at the time and never got it back so I can't say for sure). From what I remember, the 6btn's dpad was /is same as the one I now use on a Saturn pad I bought a couple years back. The Saturn dpad is a tad softer and looser than the white accented 3btn I still have bought sometime after getting the console w/red accented pad (which I prefer to the white accents of the later units). I think the Switch's genesis pad is probably a more updated dpad like the 6btn and Saturn but couldn't know unless I had it in hand. If not, perhaps the 2 USB controllers that came with the original Sega Genesis Mini feature the superior dpads?
@@linuxlover_8436 The red accents controller is the original, and has the worst dpad. Ridiculously stiff. There are actually two types of 3 button controllers with white accents. One that's slightly better than the red 3 button (this is the most common 3 button controller), and then the one the dude is using in the video above, which is the one you have. It's much harder to come by. It sucks, because there's no easy way to identify one on ebay--Matte finish with texture is tricky to notice if the seller doesn't take close-up pics. Yea, the 6button and Saturn seem to be identical dpads. Yep, I'm thinking any of the current Genesis controllers will have the better dpads. I bought a Retro-Bit (i think. it was one of the popular new companies selling retro) 3button and it had the kickass dpad. The buttons were a little close together though (similar to the 6button) and the buttons were "clicky", which drove me crazy...So i sold it. I'm using an original Genesis console, so I can't use usb. Eh, my ebay hunt continues.
HD Retrovision was working (still-working on??) the HDMIzer which was to allow dithering w/much of the RGB crispness so transparencies are still noticeable like the waterfalls in Sonic 1. I do hope they release it as I have yet to find a way to combine shaders/filters in RetroArch to get the best of both worlds.
You mentioned that the Genesis 3 outputs native rgb. I thought the Genesis 3 only supports composite video and to get RGB you need to do an internal mod or install the triple bypass?
The model 3 has RGB but only mono audio. I have heard that might be a few revisions of model 3 that dont have RGB but those might just be clone consoles of the model 3 clone console lol. The footage I showed in video of the model 3 shows that it does indeed have RGB output.
Great video! I have two model 1 systems, an original launch model and one that I picked up on eBay. They appear identical to each other, even on the inside. My original will play pal master system games through a master base converter, but the other will not. I find all the different revisions to be so interesting, thanks for the video.
Question: I've got a Model 1 with a 32X attached. Based on the image at 10:59 it does not look like I need to buy the Model 1 adapter cable offered by Retrovision. Am I right on this? The adapter is $11 and I'd rather put that dough toward a wireless Genesis controller. Note: In addition to my "Tower of Power" I also own a (much smaller) Genesis 3. Good to hear that it has good graphicss and booming sound with the HD Retrovision cables. Thanks for covering all the Genesis models. Cheers!
another option to consider for those that want to streamline is purchasing a megasd by terraonion or a mega everdrive pro by krikzz which are flash/rom carts that have the sega cd hardware built-in afaik. one still has to use a 32x on top if they want to play those games since they both don't contain the 32x hardware
There's another version of the model 1 Sega Genesis that was released between the High Definition Graphics and pre Model 2 design, it looks identical to the High Definition graphics one but it doesn't say that also the EXT port is missing but the spot is still there just a blank spot.
Master good morning, I have a Japanese mega drive that has two slots for cartridge 😳, one in the normal place and one right in front lying forward and hidden under the housing, I can't find any other like it, have you come across this model? On the board it is defined like this MD - 1095 G -1.5 ARG02
How would the retrovision cables look on a CRT? I prefer how the composite looks on the lcd because it blends together the pixels to make them look closer to how they looked on a crt, however on a CRT the image would be blended by default.
When I got my Genesis Model 2, I got one of those that the audio was bad, but it was modded to have the one from the 1st Model 1 consoles (well, more exactly, I won one from a Canada youtube user that offer it as a challenge in the Mega Man games around 2012 and he knew about the audio issue and fixed it himself before sending it to me to Mexico), and is one of my favorite retro-consoles (maybe more than the N64 for example, and tied with the NES and SNES).
Great video loads of good stuff. You forgot to mention that the will play a cart without any mods since those were locked in the other consoles do to the shape of the cart.
Also, you'll be blown away by the results of using the Retrovision cables/SCART through an OSSC. Pixel perfect display, mask the borders of the image... Basically looks like emulation in terms of clarity with none of the bugs due to it being OG hardware.
It’s always better to play these types of games on a CRT though. That’ll look better than pixel perfect(also pixel perfect can make the image looked squished as CRT pixels are more like rectangles)
IMO the best Sega Genesis model will be the model that looks best to you then get the “Triple Bypass” mod done. Looks and sounds better than the Model 1 HD. It’s incredible!
En su tiempo tuve el modelo 2 y 3 cuando fue pequeño . Grandes recuerdos , muchas horas de diversión en familia y solo. Con mi hermano rompíamos las adaptadores de pared de tanto jugar .
It's a shame you didn't also include the Mega Drive Rad2X cable. I've got one coming later this month, after I got one for my SNES/N64/GC I knew that I had to get one for my Mega Drive as well!
The most common VA0, VA1 and VA1.8 revisions of the model 2 all have really clean RGB out, but usually crap composite (most of them have the samsung encoder) and the audio quality varies from okay to awful depending on which op-amp chips they have. But these are so common that there are tons of mods to improve the audio. The model 1 VA7 has the same bad audio but with an added crappy headphone amp circuit and also worse RGB. I think any revision of model 2 is preferable to a VA7.
You should have included the sound quality through the Sega CD audio outputs. My Megadrive 2 has the usual poor sound through the tv, but sounds pretty decent when hooked up to my hi fi through my Mega CD2.
These things are built like tanks. Both of my Saturns I've had since '97 are working great still too with lots of use, with the exception that the cart slot is finicky. Really the first and only major durability "problem" with Sega hardware going back to the SMS was the disc drive on the Dreamcast, even if it wasn't broken it sure sounded broken.
I don't know about built like tanks, I've gone through three SG models recently because there's always an issue, either sound or graphics, not to mention when I purchased a different model, I have to replace the cables as well. I like SG but their hardware is really shoddy. Now SNES, that was built like a tank. I've owned over 5 of these in my lifetime and have never had any problems with any of them.
I have sega model 3 and after not using it for about two or three months I wanted to play it again but A,B,C,X,Y,Z and the start button aren't working on BOTH OF MY CONTROLLERS!!!! only movement keys are working I don't know how to fix it
I managed to score a Sega genesis model 1 2nd edition in box (sonic pack-in edition) and imma just say, while he DOES make a good point on which genesis is better, that’s no reason to sell your Sega genesis. All that matters is the sentimental value that it gives you.
I never throttle the system’s volume slider, it’s going peak badly. Go 75% and then adjust it on your receiver or TV. Or am I doing it wrong? Great video btw!
I use a HD retrovision and a retrotink with my super famicom, and it’s amazing. Researching Japan mega drives now and will be buying a retrovision cable for it for sure!
Opinions will vary on which one is the best. Here is some info from a forum: TMSS Model- Higher video/audio quality due to higher quality capacitors. Downside being some games locked out... Non-TMSS model: Will play all games, Dry capacitors can lead to rainbow banding and other picture quality issues.
@@8-Bit_Flashback - Compatibility is most important to me if playing on actual hardware, I would rather sacrifice some degree of audio/video quality than have some of my unlicensed/import titles simply not run at all...
@@8-Bit_Flashback - Yup, that's the best one if you ask me...I also prefer the 6-button controller both for compatibility with fighting games and because I have smaller hands.
Hello! I'm living in France and i'd like to find and import a High Definition Graphics Model 1 NTFS. Do you know a website where I can find one at good price ?
If you are going for NTSC sega because of 60Hz, go ahead. If you go for NTSC because of Hi Def Graphics sound and overall quality - do not bother. Best NTSC HI DEF genesis is on par with any PAL MK1 megadrive, we simply did not get these weaker versions in EU. All this "best Sega model" thing applies only to Genesis.
@@lauraiss1027 Did Euro-PALand not get the VA7 revision? Interesting. OP should probably pick up a PAL system and have it modded, then. The power supply voltage wouldn't be an issue, either.
@@ZonicMirage I have not checked what particular revisions I have, but I have two NTSC MK1s and had one MK2 and also I own 2 PAL MK1 and 1MK2 and it is like night and day. While living in EU I still mostly play my NTSC HI-DEF MK1s because of aforementioned 60Hz, but even compared to my MK2 pal system, image quality is horrible - it is dark and has the most pronounced jailbars. Also I was very disappointed that after installing triple bypass V2 mod in my MK2 PAL, it changed literally nothing. As far as sound goes I am not an expert and can not comment because my hearing is not that fine tuned. But as for image, it is zero changes. PAL Mage Drives are already as good as they can be picture-wise so there is no point in installing RGB bypass. Since I never paid much attention to revision numbers, it sure is possible that there is some not so common MD model that has inferior graphics like worst models of Genesis has but I have never seen one and I've seen many. But yeah, it still leaves you with 50Hz which sucks imo.
@@lauraiss1027 Unfortunately, Sega was very inconsistent with build quality across regions. I have a Japanese VA4 and a US VA6. The 4 has brighter output. My two US MD2s have two very different video encoders, where the worse of the two actually has the best RGB output.
The best model was the imported Japanese version which I had back in the day. The sound was by far superior compared to the US/Euro versions that followed
I think the second version of the model 2 is probably the best (the version with the smaller 3/4th's motherboard). If your using an HD retrovision cable, avoid insignia brand TV's. It seems to be incompatible with them.
The "Best" Sega Genesis is the Model 1 1601 with a VA-5/VA-6 motherboard with the ext port and has the High Definition Graphics on top. The other motherboards aren't bad, just has worse caps.
eh, I'd say the best model is the one you own if you have a model 1 or 2 because there's not a lot of difference there. Especially with the right video cables. Audio wise, we know that both systems can deliver stereo audio though the model 1 requires jumping through hoops in order to do this. You'd probably be hard pressed to notice a big difference in sound between a model 1 and 2 so that's why I conclude it shouldn't make a difference to most people. If you want the best Audio out of a Sega Genesis PERIOD, the answer is the Mega SG as that has an additional settings to mess around with low pass filter and other settings to correct sound sampling (very cool). I own the model 2 and honestly don't see a need to go out and get a model 1 for anything other than pure aesthetic looks (especially with a model 2 sega cd attached).
Its crazy that the rgb cable for the genesis costs 150 dollars lol. They cant be thaaat expensive to make.. sucks, i want one, but could buy all 3 of the genesis models and some games for that price lol
I have 4 Genesis consoles. 1 HD Graphics model 1.... 1 non HD model 1, and 2 model 2's. My favorite to use is the non HD model 1. So one of my favorite games is Hellfire. It has a dope soundtrack. But the soundtrack slows down to a crawl on 2 out of my 4 Genesis consoles. Gameplay is unaffected....but the music is butchered. The reason is that only the HD Model 1 and one of the model 2's have the necessary sound chip that thegame uses. I went to a buddy who had around 12 Genesis consoles for sale. We hooked up each one to get the console we needed. I had no intention of buying another model 2..... but since it miraculously had the chip too.... I took the model 2 aswell as the HD. Everything is fine with the model 2 when I play it. It's the HD model 1 that concerns me. So the extra soundchip and better overall audio is cool and all...... but I noticed that the console gets really fuckin hot in an hour or so. If you touch the power supply its burning hot and the console itself runs hot too. When I pull the games out, they are hot too. Not as hot as the console or power supply. But noticeable when I touch the game. Now I read this is totally normal.... but I don't want to take the chance with frying a good OEM power supply and potentially wrecking a game or EverDrive because of excess heat over time. This power supply is 36 years old. Maybe it could run that hot for 10 years straight when it was new. I just don't trust it now. Nor do I trust my games being exposed to the level of heat the original model 1 produces. So I play the non HD model 1 instead. The games come out cool to the touch. The console doesn't get hot. And the power supply just gets warm instead of burning hot. I bring out the original model 2 only to play Hellfire. My 2nd model 2 also has the slower soundtrack because it lacks the chip.... so that one just sits as a back up to the back up to the back in case anything happens. I figured it was the extra sound chip that causes the crazy heat. But the model 2 I have that also has that chip does not get nearly as hot as that original HD Genesis.
Too bad you can't buy the HD Retrovision cables. They have been out of stock for a long ass time and don't seem like they company is every going to be making more.
video on model 2 is better than model 1, i have 2 models 2s though and one of the model 2s have better video than the varient with the smaller motherboard
Too bad you didn't test every console with composite and component. Gen 1 non-HD has so much better colors on composite than component. The background walls are orange instead of dull brown, and the grass is bright neon green instead of dull green. Gen 1 HD component has almost as good of colors as the Gen 1 non-HD composite. Slightly washed out in comparison, but still way better than the Gen 1 non-HD component. Gen 3 component I would say has the best color and overall picture quality compared to the rest you showed. It looks like the vibrance was turned up like you can do in some PC graphics settings. Model 2 component looks just like Model 1 non-HD component, washed out and dark colors compared to the rest. Too bad we couldn't see Model 2 composite (if that is even an option?) Overall I'm tempted to buy the Model 3 from ebay since the prices are pretty low for those and imo it had the best picture quality of all the ones you showed, plus it has good sound. The only issue is my Trinitron TV only has composite so I don't know how it would look on there. I might go for the Gen 1 non-HD since that has great picture too, only ever so slightly worse than Model 3, and it still has the good sound, and also has composite. (Although idk what outputs it supports without the retrovision cables)
I forgot to mention the High Definition Graphics Model ONE I used in the video is also the Non-TMSS model which is compatible with more games including early imports and unlicensed games. Info from Straypixels: So if your Sega Genesis, when booting a game, does NOT display “Produced by or under license of Sega Enterprises Ltd.” you have a non-TMSS unit.
I don't want to potentially sound like a jerk, because the video was informative. Sorry for the text wall.
If the shell gap left by the EXT. removal on a textless system is to the right of the AV/RF/DC inputs, that's indeed a VA7. Now, if on the left, it's a 6.x, which is just as good as a late HD Graphics console. Additionally, the very early ones (JP launch/first couple revisions including the US launch) have bad crackling and distortion on games with loud audio.
TMSS was baked into every licensed game from the start (JP launch titles are a mess though), just proper output wasn't implemented until later. It has nothing to do with region locks. Only imported games from before late '92~early '93 will work that way anyhow. Most published afterwards will have soft region locks that require a mod. I can't run Streets of Rage 2 on my pre-TMSS Japanese model 1, for example.
The Genesis 3 was actually manufactured by Sega, albeit in Korea. While Majesco did manufacture game re-releases, the system itself was Sega-made. You'd have to open it to really tell, though.
@@ZonicMirage all good. Nothing wrong with more info.
@@8-Bit_Flashback I'm a bit obsessed with this stuff. Helps to have several variants of this beast for testing too; especially if I want to make homebrews work on real hardware.
@@ZonicMirage Do you have any links to the articles for the Sega Genesis model 3 being manufactured by Sega?
@@8-Bit_Flashback Sega Retro does have photos of the board and even a patent form filed by Sega. It's otherwise opening mine and assumptions. I just figure Sega made the parts and shipped to Majesco as a kit for assembly. It even says "assembled in Mexico" on its back label, which I think is way different from "made". The board itself has "© Sega 1998" and "made in Korea" etched on. At least the first run of it has a giant Sega logo printed just under the cart connector.
Great Video! I was lucky enough to own the 1989 HI-Def Graphic, No TMSS, 2 tone logo Genesis made in Japan. ( most were made in Taiwan) I was also lucky enough to work for Sega in the late 80’s in South San Francisco. By working there I was able to get the phone modem. Still have it to this day. We use to play Cyberball on the modem.
Thats awesome. I guess thats the pioneer Genesis. I have the model 1 non TMSS too but I think mines the Taiwan model.
About Genesis One without "High Definition Graphics" inscription - have one of those myself, but WITH "EXT" port on the back and VA-5 mainboard inside, wich is one of best sounding Genesis mainboards.
As a kid, I had a model 1 Sega Genesis. I'm pretty sure it was the first variant because I remember it had the high definition graphics logo on the top. I also like that the Sega Genesis Mini is based on that model Genesis.
HD Retrovision cables have really amazed me and have breathed new life into my retro consoles when connected to a nice CRT such as my 27" JVC i'Art. Great video!
Thanks man
I like my CRT, but I really need one with component input.
I’m sticking with model 2. Looks the best, didn’t need to deal with the bs for add ons and I personally believe it looks the best on crts. The sound may not be as good to some people but I still like it.
Thats cool
I like the cosmetics of the Model 2 as well even tho my 1st Genesis was the model 1. IMO Get the triple bypass and use HD Retrovision cables and you'll love your model 2 even more!
@@dwightdixon8508 I’ve been wanting to get the hd retrovision cables for a while, it’s definitely something on my radar. I wasn’t aware of the triple bypass option that’s something I’m going to look into, thanks for that suggestion
Well that's the one my mom bought for me back in 93. 😆😆😆
The sound quality actually depends on the game some games sound better on model 1, some games sound better on model 2.
I younger brother used to own the Model 1 Genesis but I was a Nintendo fanboy. Never really got into that system until I got older and now I believe it is as great as the Super Nintendo. I'll own the model 1 sometime soon. My model 2's sound output is at best a 3 out of 5.
IMO Keep your model 2 and have the triple bypass installed (also use HD Retrovision component cables). It will cut out a lot of time trying to get a good working and best variant of the model 1, maybe less $$$ too and will be better pretty much in every way. Just a suggestion
These videos are great. I had no idea the amount of support there was for the Genesis still. That power supply for all 3 systems is like a gift from god
Over 40 million were sold worldwide if you count Nomads and variants.
What’s the deal with why the power supply is so great?
That motion blur you are talking about is actually present in the games mostly in 2D platformers. Its harder to see it on a CRTV but its there. The reason why you see it less on the hd retrovision cables is because most take that image coming from the hd retrovision cables and set there TV to 4:3 ratio which gives you the best picture similar to a CRTV size, the motion blur is still there but not as noticeable. The Hyperkin cables can give you that same similar image. Similar to a CRTV size, but you have to have it set to 16:9 on the Hyperkin box then adjust your TV to 4:3 ratio which will give you less motion blur like the Retrovision cables. So for anyone using RGB route the best way is to have your TV format set to 4:3 not normal. The best way to test is if you have a good CRTV what your CRTV is showing is what you want your Flatscreen showing. Yes some of the picture is missing but that was missing also when looking at the same game on a CRTV.
So I have a high definition model 1 that sounds just as good as my launch model 1. Could there be some model 1 variations that still keep the good sound chips inside?
Mod 1 av6 Superior Sound with or without high-definition on it. Mod 3 output best video picture and av4 mod 2 for majesco. And RGB looks crispy
Va3 best overall
@@rustymixer2886 it good but AV6 clear & loud
@@guy6411 I dont like va6 sound quality compare to va3 but va6 video better
@@rustymixer2886 av4
@@guy6411 yup thats a rare one, only had 1 ever most boards are va5 instead va4
Fun fact, for the Genesis Mini, (I'm from the UK by the way) I've actually replace my PAL Mega Drive Mini with a USA Genesis Mini, I actually got the US one from Santa Claus in 2020, want to know why I changed it?
Because the game 'Sonic Spinball' actually plays the European version but modified to play in 60HZ, you may be thinking, not bad, but your wrong, the music was optimized for PAL releases so it plays faster on the PAL Mini and USA Minis set to German or Italian (not English, French or Spanish or even Japanese versions if set to Japanese, Chinese or Korean). Japanese version did play in standard music and game speed 60HZ on PAL Mega Drive Minis, but some text is in Japanese.
In addition, 5 other games 'Landstalker: Treasures Of King Nole', 'Light Crusader', 'Beyond Oasis' aka 'The Story Of Thor', 'Castlevania: Bloodlines' aka 'Castlevania: The New Generation' aka 'Vampire Killer' and 'Contra: Hard Corps' aka 'Probotector' all play PAL versions in 60HZ when set to English, but will play US versions when set to either Chinese or Korean.
European Mega Drive Mini sucks, USA Genesis Mini cool, Japanese and Asian Mega Drive Minis cool but different games on both models (meaning not just US/PAL systems, but even JP and Asian systems are different to each other, example: 'Sonic The Hedgehog' [the first game] is available on US/PAL and Asian systems but not Japanese systems).
*I have the Mega Drive Mini 2 and is the best mini out there!* 💡
If anyone is interested in modding the Insurrection Industries Triple bypass mod is the best thing for any model Genesis. Couple that with HD Retrovision cables and you're set!
If the power input Jack is on the corner at back of the console, it will have the best sound regardless of weather it has high definition graphics on it. The poor sounding model ones have the power input Jack a couple inches away from the corner more towards the middle. The difference is visible on the model ones you have in this video and would be even more obvious when the power cables are in.
I don't understand what you mean by this.... "A couple inches away from the corner more towards the middle"? The middle of what?
Edit: nevermind, I figured it out by looking at mine and comparing it to others online. Mine has the power input on the corner. Can you tell me why this makes a difference though? Thanks.
Because these where released at around the same time or shortly after the launch consoles with the only difference being cosmetic and the region lock, before Sega started revising the boards and components inside the consoles. The ones with the power barrel away from the corner had internal changes to the board, so they could make them for a lower cost presumably. Which pretty much all console makers do to this day, although they seem more careful not to impact performance these days.
The best Sega Genesis is the first Model 1's with the words "High Definition Graphics" written around the ring. They have the best picture and sound quality out of all of them. Unfortunately, that is the way of the tech world. As a console sells the parts used to make them become cheaper. That's when slim models hit that use cheaper parts. It was done back then as it is today. This is but one reason I am an early adopter of all things console gaming.
Any revision of the model 1 prior to VA7 has good audio, and you can always tell VA7 in a US Genesis by the position of the power jack and the lack of even a space for the EXT port. I have a VA6 that has a blank where the EXT port normally is.
On Japanese consoles it's a little different because Japanese model 1 mega drives never had an RF modulator, and so the power jack and multi-out are in a similar position to the US VA7. However I have not found any instances of a Japanese VA6 missing the EXT port.
If you open the console up, a VA7 is always obvious because it will only have one voltage regulator instead of two, and it's missing the massive 64-pin DIP version of the CPU. It should be easy to tell even without removing the RF shield.
11:15, there are 4 different 3 button controllers too, the newest ones have 6 button dpad ;)
7:25 I know I sound like a caveman, but I think that the batmobile looked better in composite, the blur actually made it look more like a smooth image than sharp pixel art.
The Best is the MD2 with VA4 motherboard. Stereo sound and audio quality same level as MD1. Other MD2 models are crap. But this one is holy grail and got one
VA6 Superior Sound. VA4 Superior picture and mod 3
I've a VA3 with one of those awful Samsung video encoders. Fortunately, seems like tapping RGB bypasses the noise. Looks great then.
I also like the Gen2 VA4. These are 3/4 boards and are by Majesco. I have two complete in box.
10:36 it adds hiss because of no transformers inside, hollow and light compared to oem power supplies
I love how the hi definition model 1 Sega genesis sounds
Yes i have it too and with good headphones plugged in the headphone jack its incredible ! Street Of Rage 2 is Sick ! :0)
*and some say and Stereo Sound on later units!*
It might sound weird, but I actually prefer the look of composite. The fuzziness kind of hides the pixelation and makes everything look a lot smoother.
It’s a good thing the Triple Bypass mod can make a Model 2 sound just as good as a HDG Model 1.
Or just hunt down a late model 2 3/4 board revision aka VA3/ VA4 these already have great picture and stereo sound identical to a HDG model 1. I know I own both and cannot tell the difference both are hooked up with composite
@@mattmaverick703 but if you're using an HDMI adapter such as RADX, does the picture quality for composite still matter?
In other words, will using RAD2X with any model 2 give the same picture quality?
@@ultraspinalki11 I own a High quality television it will take the composite on my Genesis and configure it to look HD . I also have my PS2 hooked up composite with S-Video and it looks great
I also love the 3-btn controller when the 6 is not needed. I hope someone begins to sell a 3d printed d-pad for it though that is softer and much closer to the 6btn and saturn dpads which were less harsh on the thumbs compared to the 3 btn's dpad.
They actually made 3 buttons controllers with the dpad of the 6 button--I'm guessing they hit the market right before the 6 buttons did, so they were mixing parts. I had one, but accidentally threw it out (yea, i blew it lol). Go to 11:15 in the video and watch him push the dpad. See how easily it moves? That's it!
@@RaGeNyC I have one like that one, and I'd say its dpad is better than the one I got with my Genesis (red accents; stiffer dpad). The dpad wasn't as good as the 6 btn from what I remember (loaned the 6btn to a friend at the time and never got it back so I can't say for sure). From what I remember, the 6btn's dpad was /is same as the one I now use on a Saturn pad I bought a couple years back. The Saturn dpad is a tad softer and looser than the white accented 3btn I still have bought sometime after getting the console w/red accented pad (which I prefer to the white accents of the later units). I think the Switch's genesis pad is probably a more updated dpad like the 6btn and Saturn but couldn't know unless I had it in hand. If not, perhaps the 2 USB controllers that came with the original Sega Genesis Mini feature the superior dpads?
@@linuxlover_8436 The red accents controller is the original, and has the worst dpad. Ridiculously stiff. There are actually two types of 3 button controllers with white accents. One that's slightly better than the red 3 button (this is the most common 3 button controller), and then the one the dude is using in the video above, which is the one you have. It's much harder to come by. It sucks, because there's no easy way to identify one on ebay--Matte finish with texture is tricky to notice if the seller doesn't take close-up pics. Yea, the 6button and Saturn seem to be identical dpads. Yep, I'm thinking any of the current Genesis controllers will have the better dpads. I bought a Retro-Bit (i think. it was one of the popular new companies selling retro) 3button and it had the kickass dpad. The buttons were a little close together though (similar to the 6button) and the buttons were "clicky", which drove me crazy...So i sold it. I'm using an original Genesis console, so I can't use usb. Eh, my ebay hunt continues.
The sega genesis model 1 1601 whit high definition graphics is the best for me. I`m still use in year 2021
awesome
Va3 model 1
*The final model says High Definition Stereo Sound And I think that s the best version* 💡
HD Retrovision was working (still-working on??) the HDMIzer which was to allow dithering w/much of the RGB crispness so transparencies are still noticeable like the waterfalls in Sonic 1. I do hope they release it as I have yet to find a way to combine shaders/filters in RetroArch to get the best of both worlds.
Sounds cool
You mentioned that the Genesis 3 outputs native rgb. I thought the Genesis 3 only supports composite video and to get RGB you need to do an internal mod or install the triple bypass?
The model 3 has RGB but only mono audio. I have heard that might be a few revisions of model 3 that dont have RGB but those might just be clone consoles of the model 3 clone console lol. The footage I showed in video of the model 3 shows that it does indeed have RGB output.
@@8-Bit_Flashback ha nice. Thanks for the reply. Have a good one!
Great video! I have two model 1 systems, an original launch model and one that I picked up on eBay. They appear identical to each other, even on the inside. My original will play pal master system games through a master base converter, but the other will not. I find all the different revisions to be so interesting, thanks for the video.
Thank you
Question: I've got a Model 1 with a 32X attached. Based on the image at 10:59 it does not look like I need to buy the Model 1 adapter cable offered by Retrovision. Am I right on this? The adapter is $11 and I'd rather put that dough toward a wireless Genesis controller. Note: In addition to my "Tower of Power" I also own a (much smaller) Genesis 3. Good to hear that it has good graphicss and booming sound with the HD Retrovision cables. Thanks for covering all the Genesis models. Cheers!
Hello. I have a tower of power video that covers this in detail.
@@8-Bit_Flashback Just watched it. Perfect! Thank you. Subscribed!
@@redfanrod awesome!
another option to consider for those that want to streamline is purchasing a megasd by terraonion or a mega everdrive pro by krikzz which are flash/rom carts that have the sega cd hardware built-in afaik. one still has to use a 32x on top if they want to play those games since they both don't contain the 32x hardware
Your Genesis 3 is a VA2 that’s why it doesn’t play virtua racing. However the genesis 3 VA1 plays it. I have both revisions . Cool video 😀
VA0 launch model imho is the best model.
There's another version of the model 1 Sega Genesis that was released between the High Definition Graphics and pre Model 2 design, it looks identical to the High Definition graphics one but it doesn't say that also the EXT port is missing but the spot is still there just a blank spot.
Master good morning, I have a Japanese mega drive that has two slots for cartridge 😳, one in the normal place and one right in front lying forward and hidden under the housing, I can't find any other like it, have you come across this model? On the board it is defined like this MD - 1095 G -1.5 ARG02
It's a bootleg, no official Sega console ever had two cartridge ports.
How would the retrovision cables look on a CRT? I prefer how the composite looks on the lcd because it blends together the pixels to make them look closer to how they looked on a crt, however on a CRT the image would be blended by default.
Thanks for that amazing test❤
Love the intro music.. from "Legendary Axe" 😊
I dont my the sound quality i like MD2 looks more than MD1. Also stereo output with RGB-S to tv at same time rocks.
When I got my Genesis Model 2, I got one of those that the audio was bad, but it was modded to have the one from the 1st Model 1 consoles (well, more exactly, I won one from a Canada youtube user that offer it as a challenge in the Mega Man games around 2012 and he knew about the audio issue and fixed it himself before sending it to me to Mexico), and is one of my favorite retro-consoles (maybe more than the N64 for example, and tied with the NES and SNES).
You can just get the RGB Triple Bypass mod for your model 2...it sounds better and looks better than a stock model 1.
Still have my model 1 from 1989.
I would have love to see the CDX compare to this. Good video.
Would you buy a model 2 and do a triple bypass?
you need to show all of the VA versions and the Xeye and CDX
was retrovision component for md1 also work for neo geo aes ?
was this cable compatible also for neo geo aes? plan to buy one with adapter for md1
Great video loads of good stuff. You forgot to mention that the will play a cart without any mods since those were locked in the other consoles do to the shape of the cart.
Thanks. Its a Non TMSS model 1 thats capable of playing early megadrive and genesis games that do not contain the TMSS code implemented in the games.
Also, you'll be blown away by the results of using the Retrovision cables/SCART through an OSSC. Pixel perfect display, mask the borders of the image... Basically looks like emulation in terms of clarity with none of the bugs due to it being OG hardware.
It’s always better to play these types of games on a CRT though. That’ll look better than pixel perfect(also pixel perfect can make the image looked squished as CRT pixels are more like rectangles)
IMO the best Sega Genesis model will be the model that looks best to you then get the “Triple Bypass” mod done. Looks and sounds better than the Model 1 HD. It’s incredible!
Majesco actually took over a little before the model 3, some later model 2s are Majesco.
You got a subscriber for this video. Thanks
En su tiempo tuve el modelo 2 y 3 cuando fue pequeño . Grandes recuerdos , muchas horas de diversión en familia y solo. Con mi hermano rompíamos las adaptadores de pared de tanto jugar .
It's a shame you didn't also include the Mega Drive Rad2X cable. I've got one coming later this month, after I got one for my SNES/N64/GC I knew that I had to get one for my Mega Drive as well!
The most common VA0, VA1 and VA1.8 revisions of the model 2 all have really clean RGB out, but usually crap composite (most of them have the samsung encoder) and the audio quality varies from okay to awful depending on which op-amp chips they have. But these are so common that there are tons of mods to improve the audio.
The model 1 VA7 has the same bad audio but with an added crappy headphone amp circuit and also worse RGB. I think any revision of model 2 is preferable to a VA7.
Thanks for making this
You should have included the sound quality through the Sega CD audio outputs. My Megadrive 2 has the usual poor sound through the tv, but sounds pretty decent when hooked up to my hi fi through my Mega CD2.
I have a video for tower of power coming up that will cover just that
@@8-Bit_Flashback Awesome.
These things are built like tanks. Both of my Saturns I've had since '97 are working great still too with lots of use, with the exception that the cart slot is finicky. Really the first and only major durability "problem" with Sega hardware going back to the SMS was the disc drive on the Dreamcast, even if it wasn't broken it sure sounded broken.
I don't know about built like tanks, I've gone through three SG models recently because there's always an issue, either sound or graphics, not to mention when I purchased a different model, I have to replace the cables as well. I like SG but their hardware is really shoddy. Now SNES, that was built like a tank. I've owned over 5 of these in my lifetime and have never had any problems with any of them.
I've heard that the genesis model 2 MK-1451 is supposed to be the rare model of the model 2s? Any truth to this?
I have sega model 3 and after not using it for about two or three months I wanted to play it again but A,B,C,X,Y,Z and the start button aren't working on BOTH OF MY CONTROLLERS!!!! only movement keys are working I don't know how to fix it
IT'S CALLED THE MEGA DRIVE!!!!!
I managed to score a Sega genesis model 1 2nd edition in box (sonic pack-in edition) and imma just say, while he DOES make a good point on which genesis is better, that’s no reason to sell your Sega genesis. All that matters is the sentimental value that it gives you.
I never throttle the system’s volume slider, it’s going peak badly. Go 75% and then adjust it on your receiver or TV. Or am I doing it wrong? Great video btw!
*the sound is still bad dude! You NEED the original GENESIS or 3 and can turn the slider to the MAX and have clean crisp sound!* 💡
Do you use the HD Retrovision cables by themselves, or with a scaler like the RetroTink?
Just the cables
@@8-Bit_Flashback I'm guessing you don't play on an HD television?
I use a HD retrovision and a retrotink with my super famicom, and it’s amazing. Researching Japan mega drives now and will be buying a retrovision cable for it for sure!
Great video, very good 👍
Thanks
Explain the unreleased 32X games and boxes.
Interesting. And it has been a longtime.
I get busy sometimes lol
@@8-Bit_Flashback Same here: I've been doing other stuff myself.
@@ElricSowrd cool
Sega Millennium/2000
Good video!
Great video I love Sega mega drive / Genesis
Thank you
Sega Mega Drive 1 PAL rev. 6.5 is by far the best revision ever.
Wouldn't that be the release version of Model 1 because it can run the old, unlicensed cardboard box EA titles and pretty much any import cart?
Opinions will vary on which one is the best. Here is some info from a forum:
TMSS Model- Higher video/audio quality due to higher quality capacitors. Downside being some games locked out...
Non-TMSS model: Will play all games, Dry capacitors can lead to rainbow banding and other picture quality issues.
@@8-Bit_Flashback - Compatibility is most important to me if playing on actual hardware, I would rather sacrifice some degree of audio/video quality than have some of my unlicensed/import titles simply not run at all...
@@JohnnyProctor9 cool. well with all that being said the one I used in the video just happens to be the Non-TMSS lol
@@8-Bit_Flashback - Yup, that's the best one if you ask me...I also prefer the 6-button controller both for compatibility with fighting games and because I have smaller hands.
@@JohnnyProctor9 Cool.
The best Sega Genesis model is the high definition graphics system it has the Yamaha sound board
I'd like to try that HD retrovision cable, but I just can't justify $70.
Hello!
I'm living in France and i'd like to find and import a High Definition Graphics Model 1 NTFS. Do you know a website where I can find one at good price ?
Ebay is the best for me or dig through a genesis collection at a local retro game shop.
If you are going for NTSC sega because of 60Hz, go ahead. If you go for NTSC because of Hi Def Graphics sound and overall quality - do not bother. Best NTSC HI DEF genesis is on par with any PAL MK1 megadrive, we simply did not get these weaker versions in EU. All this "best Sega model" thing applies only to Genesis.
@@lauraiss1027 Did Euro-PALand not get the VA7 revision? Interesting. OP should probably pick up a PAL system and have it modded, then. The power supply voltage wouldn't be an issue, either.
@@ZonicMirage I have not checked what particular revisions I have, but I have two NTSC MK1s and had one MK2 and also I own 2 PAL MK1 and 1MK2 and it is like night and day. While living in EU I still mostly play my NTSC HI-DEF MK1s because of aforementioned 60Hz, but even compared to my MK2 pal system, image quality is horrible - it is dark and has the most pronounced jailbars. Also I was very disappointed that after installing triple bypass V2 mod in my MK2 PAL, it changed literally nothing. As far as sound goes I am not an expert and can not comment because my hearing is not that fine tuned. But as for image, it is zero changes. PAL Mage Drives are already as good as they can be picture-wise so there is no point in installing RGB bypass. Since I never paid much attention to revision numbers, it sure is possible that there is some not so common MD model that has inferior graphics like worst models of Genesis has but I have never seen one and I've seen many. But yeah, it still leaves you with 50Hz which sucks imo.
@@lauraiss1027 Unfortunately, Sega was very inconsistent with build quality across regions. I have a Japanese VA4 and a US VA6. The 4 has brighter output. My two US MD2s have two very different video encoders, where the worse of the two actually has the best RGB output.
The high definition graphics system is the best it has the Yamaha sound chip
*Erm ........ the final Model 1 sez High Definition and Stereo Sound has the best sound chip dude!* 😂
The best model was the imported Japanese version which I had back in the day.
The sound was by far superior compared to the US/Euro versions that followed
What about cdx. That's a grail item for me
Retro Game Supply is from France actually.
Just picked a model 3 and wow it’s so much smaller than I expected gaha
I think the second version of the model 2 is probably the best (the version with the smaller 3/4th's motherboard). If your using an HD retrovision cable, avoid insignia brand TV's. It seems to be incompatible with them.
The "Best" Sega Genesis is the Model 1 1601 with a VA-5/VA-6 motherboard with the ext port and has the High Definition Graphics on top. The other motherboards aren't bad, just has worse caps.
I'm sticking with hyperkin mega retro hd & srt3 by retro but for now.
eh, I'd say the best model is the one you own if you have a model 1 or 2 because there's not a lot of difference there. Especially with the right video cables.
Audio wise, we know that both systems can deliver stereo audio though the model 1 requires jumping through hoops in order to do this. You'd probably be hard pressed to notice a big difference in sound between a model 1 and 2 so that's why I conclude it shouldn't make a difference to most people. If you want the best Audio out of a Sega Genesis PERIOD, the answer is the Mega SG as that has an additional settings to mess around with low pass filter and other settings to correct sound sampling (very cool). I own the model 2 and honestly don't see a need to go out and get a model 1 for anything other than pure aesthetic looks (especially with a model 2 sega cd attached).
Model 1 va3
in graphics terms, 3, 2, 1 ?
*BINGO!*
VA4 Triple Bypass modded Model 2 sounds the best to me.
Whys this cable nearly $100 tho
I got a model 2 with a better sound chip for $50 😁
Sega genesis mod 2 va4 & sega genesis 3. Video clip sony cxa1645
Its crazy that the rgb cable for the genesis costs 150 dollars lol. They cant be thaaat expensive to make.. sucks, i want one, but could buy all 3 of the genesis models and some games for that price lol
*getting the best picture and stereo sound is worth it dude! Plus if you use it everyday ya almost got ya moneys worth!* 💡
I LOVE RETRO
I have 4 Genesis consoles. 1 HD Graphics model 1.... 1 non HD model 1, and 2 model 2's.
My favorite to use is the non HD model 1.
So one of my favorite games is Hellfire. It has a dope soundtrack. But the soundtrack slows down to a crawl on 2 out of my 4 Genesis consoles. Gameplay is unaffected....but the music is butchered. The reason is that only the HD Model 1 and one of the model 2's have the necessary sound chip that thegame uses.
I went to a buddy who had around 12 Genesis consoles for sale. We hooked up each one to get the console we needed. I had no intention of buying another model 2..... but since it miraculously had the chip too.... I took the model 2 aswell as the HD.
Everything is fine with the model 2 when I play it.
It's the HD model 1 that concerns me. So the extra soundchip and better overall audio is cool and all...... but I noticed that the console gets really fuckin hot in an hour or so. If you touch the power supply its burning hot and the console itself runs hot too. When I pull the games out, they are hot too. Not as hot as the console or power supply. But noticeable when I touch the game.
Now I read this is totally normal.... but I don't want to take the chance with frying a good OEM power supply and potentially wrecking a game or EverDrive because of excess heat over time.
This power supply is 36 years old. Maybe it could run that hot for 10 years straight when it was new. I just don't trust it now. Nor do I trust my games being exposed to the level of heat the original model 1 produces.
So I play the non HD model 1 instead. The games come out cool to the touch. The console doesn't get hot. And the power supply just gets warm instead of burning hot. I bring out the original model 2 only to play Hellfire. My 2nd model 2 also has the slower soundtrack because it lacks the chip.... so that one just sits as a back up to the back up to the back in case anything happens.
I figured it was the extra sound chip that causes the crazy heat. But the model 2 I have that also has that chip does not get nearly as hot as that original HD Genesis.
My 32x hates my model 1 for some unknown reason so model 2 it is
The Hyperkin HDTV cable sucks. It don't works on european model 1 (1600-xx) version.
2:25 neptune mini
I have a model 2 and it has decent sound but the composite video is extremely bad.
*yeah it stinks! Get a RGB cable dude and ya get the best picture dude* 💡
Too bad you can't buy the HD Retrovision cables. They have been out of stock for a long ass time and don't seem like they company is every going to be making more.
video on model 2 is better than model 1, i have 2 models 2s though and one of the model 2s have better video than the varient with the smaller motherboard
The best Sega Genesis is the laptop I'm watching this video on.
I had model 1 and 2 didn’t give a shit when I was growing up about sound all I cared about was mortal kombat getting them fatlity scenes
Too bad you didn't test every console with composite and component.
Gen 1 non-HD has so much better colors on composite than component. The background walls are orange instead of dull brown, and the grass is bright neon green instead of dull green.
Gen 1 HD component has almost as good of colors as the Gen 1 non-HD composite. Slightly washed out in comparison, but still way better than the Gen 1 non-HD component.
Gen 3 component I would say has the best color and overall picture quality compared to the rest you showed. It looks like the vibrance was turned up like you can do in some PC graphics settings.
Model 2 component looks just like Model 1 non-HD component, washed out and dark colors compared to the rest. Too bad we couldn't see Model 2 composite (if that is even an option?)
Overall I'm tempted to buy the Model 3 from ebay since the prices are pretty low for those and imo it had the best picture quality of all the ones you showed, plus it has good sound. The only issue is my Trinitron TV only has composite so I don't know how it would look on there. I might go for the Gen 1 non-HD since that has great picture too, only ever so slightly worse than Model 3, and it still has the good sound, and also has composite. (Although idk what outputs it supports without the retrovision cables)
Model 1 is best belive me. Better