Should I get a Genesis model 1 or model 2? [Archive]

Ninjamohawk

03-20-2011, 01:53 PM

I've had a model 3 since it was new but now I want a genuine system that I can one day get a sega cd for, or 32x.

Should I look to get a model 1 or a model 2? I've look for differences but I don't know overall which is better.

Zebbe

03-20-2011, 02:45 PM

Model 1 (early revision that says High Definition Graphics). It has better sound.

josekortez

03-20-2011, 02:48 PM

Oddly enough, I prefer the Majesco model 3 the same way I prefer the slim PS2 to the original. However, the unlicensed Accolade carts don't work on it.

maxlords

03-20-2011, 03:16 PM

Just get a Sega CDX.....good sound, good picture, and it has the CD built in....plus it's wayyyy smaller!

Personally..I like em all, but I have a Model 2, a Model 3, and a CDX hooked up.

fahlim003

03-20-2011, 03:42 PM

Just get a Sega CDX.....good sound, good picture, and it has the CD built in....plus it's wayyyy smaller!
Newer than both models of Sega CD too. Yes, you pay a bit more for the CDX but it's a logical choice if you don't already have a Genesis and would like to get into the CD library. I haven't heard of any compatibility issues with 32X or otherwise, so it should be fine for that too.

geezuzkhrist119

03-20-2011, 04:57 PM

go with the model 1. i personally think the model 1 sega cd is better looking and fits the model 1 gen.

Emuaust

03-20-2011, 05:00 PM

Model 1 (early revision that says High Definition Graphics). It has better sound.

With my extensive testing all Model 1's and CDX/wondermega's have vastly superior sound to the model 2, not just the HD graphics stamped models.

Rev. Link

03-20-2011, 06:10 PM

I would say model 2, since the model 2 Sega CDs seem to be easier to find. Also, the model 2 Sega CD has a flip top lid as opposed to being front loading. Front loaders eventually break down.

Ninjamohawk

03-20-2011, 07:21 PM

Alright well I went ahead and ordered a CDX. Came with a few games too (including sonic CD, my all-time favorite sonic game)

So, hopefully it works! :P I've heard the CD drive can be touchy but any CD drive can be.

Rickstilwell1

03-20-2011, 07:37 PM

I would say model 2, since the model 2 Sega CDs seem to be easier to find. Also, the model 2 Sega CD has a flip top lid as opposed to being front loading. Front loaders eventually break down.

Still you can attach a model 1 Genesis to a model 2 sega CD for the best of both worlds. The base extension is also just there for looks so its not necessary to use it with a model 1 genesis / model 2 sega cd combo. The model 1 Genesis is also better because headphones and power base converter compatibility.

fahlim003

03-20-2011, 07:56 PM

Still you can attach a model 1 Genesis to a model 2 sega CD for the best of both worlds. The base extension is also just there for looks so its not necessary to use it with a model 1 genesis / model 2 sega cd combo. The model 1 Genesis is also better because headphones and power base converter compatibility.

You can still attach a PBC, with a little surgery. There's also the sequel to the PBC - the Master System Converter 2/II, although it is very pricey for what it does. Mind you, there are cheap 3rd party SMS converters too although otherwise yeah, a Model 1 is a good way to go.

Gameguy

03-20-2011, 09:10 PM

You can still attach a PBC, with a little surgery.
Or using a Honey Bee import converter, it's just an extension that works as a straight pass-through. I always prefer the method that causes the least amount of physical damage whenever possible.

Edmond Dantes

03-20-2011, 09:16 PM

I've owned a Model 2 since back when they were the new thing, and I've been perfectly happy with it.

It really doesn't matter much though.

sheath

03-20-2011, 09:53 PM

If given a reasonably priced choice I would always go with an early Genesis 1 while planning on using the headphone jack for audio and a 32X for video. Nothing beats this combo.

Emuaust

03-20-2011, 10:09 PM

as people have said, you could track down one of these, they're not by any means common:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBFKVUkf4YY

One major advantage over the third party adapters is the fact you can easily use the pause button without crashing the game

Ninjamohawk

03-20-2011, 10:40 PM

Well now as long as this CDX works I'll have a Gen 3 to get rid of. Not that there's any demand for it.

PSony

03-21-2011, 03:12 AM

Model 1 High Definition Graphics. It's pure eargasm.

I've owned CDX, Nomad and Model 2 before but they don't sound as good.

And of course Model 3 is the most bare-bones with mono sound. Still better than any clone system though.

Ninjamohawk

03-21-2011, 05:08 AM

Since I'm a big RPG'er I'll probably want some sort of backup ram cart.

Shame they cost so much. !! Jeez!! Some people want $80 for one. We sold them at TRU *new* for $50 and I thought that was a lot.

I'll bet I can't find cheaper 3rd party ones either.

Anyone know if the backup ram cart uses a battery or is it flash (like it should be)? If it's a battery I may as well assume I'll have to replace it right off the go.

On a related note: is the internal memory of the CDX a battery? Probably have to replace that too.

theclaw

03-21-2011, 06:34 AM

BTW, yes. SMS games do work on CDX. In case this topic didn't already imply it well enough.

DuckTalesNES

03-21-2011, 01:50 PM

I like the JVC X'eye

Ninjamohawk

03-21-2011, 01:53 PM

BTW, yes. SMS games do work on CDX. In case this topic didn't already imply it well enough.

Can you use any pass through device or do you need the power base converter?

theclaw

03-21-2011, 02:55 PM

Not sure, I never owned the first model power base converter. Sega's Genesis 2 type converter is fine.

Emuaust

03-21-2011, 03:37 PM

any pass through cart be it an official PBC or third party will work with the CDX

Greg2600

03-21-2011, 07:38 PM

Not sure but I think the 32X doesn't fit too well on a CDX, although it works. If you only care about being able to play games you like/want to play, cheapest approach is probably a model 2 and model 2 CD. Model 2 has stereo sound without going through the headphone port, and looks better IMO alongside a model 2 CD. Model 1 CD is more expensive, slower, and prone more to breakage. Also, 32X cable to model 2 is easier to find than model 1, though gametrog.com sells direct replacements.

Steve W

03-21-2011, 07:51 PM

Yeah, I personally would have selected a Model 1 myself. Better sound, it can fit the SMS adapter, and easy hook-up to a 32X and Sega CD. And here's another issue I'm sure very few people (like me) will have an issue with, the VictorMaxx Stuntmaster VR Helmet designed for the Genesis and SNES only hooks up to the Model 1. Not that there are a lot of games that would qualify as being 'virtual reality' in the Genny library.

kedawa

03-22-2011, 08:59 PM

Lanzo

03-22-2011, 09:18 PM

Are there any differences or variations among the 'High Definition Graphics' models?
My friend has one with a different style RF jack (not RCA), and I was wondering what else may be different with it.

I'm pretty sure there are 4 different Model 1's, 2 of which say HD graphics. I don't know the difference though, just that the HD graphics ones are the best.

To OP, I would try for an HD model 1. And if you don't mind spending money get a cdx.

Greg2600

03-22-2011, 10:51 PM

Model 1 had an actual RCA jack for RF, and then the big connector for AV (mono). Model 2 I don't think has an RF jack, so technically you had to have a special RF that used the same connector as the stereo AV jack.

I would simply shoot for a Model 1 that says High Definition on it, the ones that didn't came later, and were not not as good in quality. They work fine of course, and you will be fine with either.

Robocop2

03-22-2011, 11:13 PM

The High Definition Graphics model is broken down into two different units. The earliest ones will play basically any game and the later ones were equipped with TMSS (Think NES10 style hardware lockout for unlicensed games) So basically not all releases will play in later model HDG units, mostly the early Accolade releases though I've heard a few of the early EA releases had trouble in them as well specifically Populous and Crazy Golf. Myself I prefer the earliest model as it was the one I owned back then.

Here's a great article about all the different models and the pros/cons of each:
http://www.sega-16.com/forum/showpost.php?p=161951&postcount=1

Purkeynator

03-22-2011, 11:50 PM

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

PSony

03-23-2011, 05:18 AM

You can get around the TMSS lockout by using a Game Genie.

I just use my Model 1 HDG (non-TMSS) for convenience.

Coptur

03-23-2011, 02:41 PM

I've had trouble with both systems. I'd recommend either one, just get one that WORKS.

Ninjamohawk

03-23-2011, 06:49 PM

I've personally had more trouble with Saturns not working or having flaky AV/RF connections.

Cafeman

03-28-2011, 09:06 PM

This is just my experience, but I recently repurchased a model 1 (doesn't say HD graphics on it) and ...

Visuals: Model 1 I must use RF. But its just as good as my Genesis model 2's true composite connection. Was surprising to me.

Audio: Model 1 I would output from the headphone jack normally (true and great stereo separation). My model 2 has a stereo AV cable - but it outputs in mono x2. It took me a while to realize this. I've read other comments online where people claimed this as well. Why would it be stereo-capable, and I had to find and buy the stereo sound cable - yet it isn't in true stereo!? Also, the model 1's sound (even without the sega cd) is much louder and seems to have more presence than the drabbier sound of my model 2 - so I believe all model 1's have the better sound circuitry.

My current connection however is model 1 genny and sega cd hooked up together; I use 1/8 inch mixing cable between the two, and output directly from the Sega CD to my stereo. Great sound.

Hwj_Chim

03-28-2011, 10:25 PM

This is just my experience, but I recently repurchased a model 1 (doesn't say HD graphics on it) and ...

Visuals: Model 1 I must use RF. But its just as good as my Genesis model 2's true composite connection. Was surprising to me.
My current connection however is model 1 genny and sega cd hooked up together; I use 1/8 inch mixing cable between the two, and output directly from the Sega CD to my stereo. Great sound.

Just use a genesis 1 av cable with the Sega cd sound and you can the best of both worlds ;)
http://www.wwgaming.com/games-images/genesis-1-av-cable.jpg

Gameguy

03-28-2011, 11:56 PM

My model 2 has a stereo AV cable - but it outputs in mono x2. It took me a while to realize this. I've read other comments online where people claimed this as well. Why would it be stereo-capable, and I had to find and buy the stereo sound cable - yet it isn't in true stereo!?
Are you using an official Sega stereo cable or an aftermarket stereo cable? Some of the aftermarket ones just split the mono output instead of having true stereo.

Cafeman

03-29-2011, 04:56 PM

Are you using an official Sega stereo cable or an aftermarket stereo cable? Some of the aftermarket ones just split the mono output instead of having true stereo.

That describes what I'm getting. Must not be an official one - I bought it used of course.

Cafeman

03-29-2011, 04:56 PM

Just use a genesis 1 av cable with the Sega cd sound and you can the best of both worlds ;)
http://www.wwgaming.com/games-images/genesis-1-av-cable.jpg

Yep, I need one of those! Don't have one.

Einzelherz

03-29-2011, 09:55 PM

Is the only way to get stereo out of a model one to use the headphone jack?

kedawa

03-29-2011, 10:47 PM

Yep, unless you want to modify it.

DogP

04-01-2011, 01:17 AM

This thread has been very informative to me, except I used to think I knew what I wanted... now I don't :P . I currently have a Genesis 1 High Definition Graphics with a 32x (but no Genesis 1 cable yet), which I thought I wanted to upgrade to a Genesis 2 (for the stereo output on the back, and sleeker design w/ 32X and Model 2 CD). But now I see that the Genesis 2 sound kinda sucks. So, I guess I've got some questions.

First, if I keep the Genesis 1 w/ 32X, I still use the AV cable out of the 32X to the TV, right? That means that I'll have stereo output, except the cable feeding into it is Mono (Model 1 AV output). To get stereo, I assume I'd have to hack the linking cable to bring the stereo from the headphone jack?

Also, is there any trick to making the Model 2 CD work w/ the Model 1 Genesis? Especially in getting the best sound out of it (stereo, w/ stereo from Genesis/32X as well)? I like the look of the Model 1 CD w/ the Model 1 Genesis (tray loading systems look nice), but the Genesis 1 w/ 32X, Model 1 Sega CD, plus a Sonic and Knuckles+Sonic cart is WAY too tall... and lets hope I don't want to cheat w/ a Game Genie ;) .

Thanks,
DogP

Richter Belmount

04-01-2011, 01:50 AM

Model 3

kedawa

04-01-2011, 09:45 PM

What happens if you just use the audio from the headphone port?

grolt

04-03-2011, 12:04 AM

What happens if you just use the audio from the headphone port?

You die.

This has been a very informative thread though, thanks guys. I've always had a third party AV cable for the Model 1 with the red and white audio outputs that I just assumed were stereo. I know better now, and my Model 1 from back in the day that's still kicking is the High Definition model, so I'm good to go now through the headphone jack.