Ideal Genesis and Sega CD System Combination?

[tubeway]

I have model 1 and 2 of both the Sega CD and Sega Genesis, as well as a Sega 32X. I'm going to get rid of one of each and need to figure out which.

So, what is the most ideal combination of Genesis and Sega CD units? I'm not talking about aesthetics at all, but functionality and the ability to mod them for all regions.

(Note: I did a few searches, but couldn't find a thread discussing specifically this....)

[Baloo]

Definitely go with the Model 1 of the Sega Genesis, it has the best specs (unless it's the kind that DOESN'T say Hi-Definition Graphics on the top). It outputs great sound compared to the Model 2 (which sounds like shit most of the time) and also better video.

The Sega CD Model 2 is more reliable than the model 1, as although it's still fragile, it doesn't break as easily as the Model 1 Sega CD. I'm not sure if one is better than the other specs-wise.

I'd say go with Model 1 Genesis, Model 2 Sega CD, and the 32x.

[tubeway]

Thanks, Baloo. That sounds pretty solid. I'd like to hear what others think as well.

[Carey85]

Go with the Genesis 2 and CD 2. People make a big fuss about the non-TMSS Genesis 1s being the cock of the walk, but I see no real benefit to owning one. Just get a stereo video cable for your Genny 2 and call it a day.

[aclbandit]

if it's just Genny/CD, the model 2 on model 2 is my preferred setup since its stereo is less stupid to set up and the CD drive is less likely to crap out.

However, since you have a 32x, I prefer my current setup with both model 1 genny and model 1 CD. My only reason for preference of this set is because the 32x looks like a creepy penis on a model 2 genesis, whereas on a model1/model1 setup, it looks like it "belongs there."

So, since you mentioned aesthetics are NOT your deciding factor, I'd say go with the model2/model2 set. I've tried audio output from just about all combos, and the difference, as far as I can tell (and I'm quite an audiophile), is negligible on my sound system.

Genesis is old (at least relative to "new" stuff like PS3/360), and it sounds old, no matter which way you cut it.

[PSony]

You can clearly hear how much better model 1's sound:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFXCnEEAppo

[SegaAges]

genny model 1, scd model 2, and you have to put a 32x on top to finish it off

[Flippy8490]

genny model 1, scd model 2, and you have to put a 32x on top to finish it off

Thats my setup, and its fantastic.

[Breetai]

I'll agree with those who are touting a Genesis model 1 with a Sega CD model 2 for top functionality. Although, since I'm all about aesthetics (and for those viewing this thread who are just curious on people's opinions on this), you can't beat the model 1 setup of both the Genesis and Sega CD!

[Rickstilwell1]

genny model 1, scd model 2, and you have to put a 32x on top to finish it off

I agree, plus if you pop out the 32X at any time you can use the Sega Master System converter on your setup as well, giving you a 4th playable format of games.

[alec006]

Personally I like the look of my tower of Genesis Model 1, CD Model 1, & 32X, but as others have said the model 1 Sega CD is a pain sometimes with its motorised disc tray,that oddly on mine pops out sometimes even when the Genesis doesent switch on the Sega CD...its haunted...anyway,the Model 1 with High Definition graphics really is the absolute best model and if can find one with the bios that doesnt say Produced By Or Under Licence From SEGA, then it's supposed to produce a better video signal ive heard. So yea a model 1 Genesis,with a more relyable model 2 Sega CD and the good oh Mushroom 32X.

[Push Upstairs]

Model 1 Genesis, Model 2 Sega CD, & 32x.

This is what we at Sega-16 call "Super Battleship Formation".

[Pantechnicon]

I'm using a Model 1/Model 1 setup, with a Power Base converter on standby. The Sega CD unit was one I brought back from the dead with a fuse swap. If you've got passable soldering skills and a $1.50 for the fuse then that's all you really need.

I'll confess this is mostly an aesthetic choice. And because I'd rather not deal with the hassle of swapping a 32x and cables in and out of the unit, I've also got a model 2 with 32x strictly dedicated just for 32x play, which admittedly isn't much with my meager collection of 3 or 4 titles, so it only comes out when necessary.

If I can raise an aside question: I'm hearing some comparisons on the sound quality of model 1 versus model 2 Genny/CD setups. How does the elusive Sega CDx compare sound-wise to the more commonly used setups?

[Baloo]

Model 1 Genesis, Model 2 Sega CD, & 32x.

This is what we at Sega-16 call "Super Battleship Formation".

Who are you on Sega-16?




If I can raise an aside question: I'm hearing some comparisons on the sound quality of model 1 versus model 2 Genny/CD setups. How does the elusive Sega CDx compare sound-wise to the more commonly used setups?

I've heard that the CDX doesn't output as good sound as the Model 1 Genesis, but I've never really heard any comparisons.

[AB Positive]

I have a CDX and the sound is good but nothing special. But I'm not an audiophile.

I love the CDX for the small form factor - and works with the PBC and 32X to boot. 32X on a CDX - now you're playing with the weirdest looking toilet ever.

[Emuaust]

the CDx produces clearer model 1 style sound. I have tested both the model 2 and 1 against it.

[Zebbe]

Go with early model 1 Genesis (says High Definition Graphics) and model 1 Sega CD (looks better with the Genesis). Early Genesis has better sound while later ones and model 2 have a distorted sound the console shouldn't be famous for. You can also control Genesis sound effects volume with the volume slider thanks to the headphone jack (obligatory to use for stereo). Just make sure to get a working CD1, it shouldn't break if just being well taken care of.

Other option would be CDX, which also has a good sound.

Get a 32X if you are interested in its library, otherwise just skip it. Make sure to get a working one with all needed cables when getting it.

[-hellvin-]

JVC X Eye. Get rid of everything else and throw away the 32x.

[LiquidPolicenaut]

If we are going with the TRUE ideal setup it would be the Wondermega but, then again, it's only import so scratch that :) Going domestic-wise only, I never did like the Sega CD 2 design so I will recommend what I have and agree with others that the Genesis Model 1 and Sega CD Model 1 are the way to go....

[Push Upstairs]

Who are you on Sega-16?

Rusty.

[Breetai]

If we are going with the TRUE ideal setup it would be the Wondermega....Not it's not. The Wondermega will not play Snatcher.

You need a Genesis/Sega CD (or MD/MCD in PAL countries) setup AND a Japanese Mega Drive/Mega CD setup to play everything.

[Sonicwolf]

JVC X Eye. Get rid of everything else and throw away the 32x.

Pretty sound advice there. I own an X Eye and its awesome. Very convenient and it has a pretty good form factor. A CDX is even better but those things are... pricey.

[Zebbe]

X'Eye doesn't have the great sound of early Model 1 (VA1-4) and CDX.

[BetaWolf47]

The sound and video relies more on the revision than the model type, something which I'm surprised people have failed to mention.

http://www.sega-16.com/forum/showthread.php?t=7796

I'm not much of a bass person, so I prefer the model 2 3/4 motherboard systems the most. Much better than the model 1 VA7 audio.

[LiquidPolicenaut]

X'Eye doesn't have the great sound of Model 1 and CDX.

...and odd how the first version, the JVC/Sega Wondermega, sounds the opposite :)

If we WERE going for any version, I DO prefer my JVC Wondermega but since its an import machine, I guess it doesn't count. On just the domestic front, I am still partial to my Geneis Model 1 and Sega CD Model 1 setup...

On a side not, if you had Genesis with an S-Video mod, it would make the video quality debate moot obviously, however, if you are running your Genesis audio through the Sega CD, does the difference in Genesis model matter than?