Retro Duo Portable - RDP 2 in 1 Portable System

[nusilver]

-Some of my games have wavy lines through them like there's major sych issues. I thought this might have been caused by something loose internally, but its not something that happens across the board. For example, it occurs with the Super GameBoy every single time I've tried it, but it does not have this issue with Donkey Kong Country 2.

-The same deal as the Supaboy, the RDP doesn't seem to properly reconize sweeping diagonal dpad inputs in shumps. In fact, testing it with Zelda, pressing down right actually began to give me the opposite input of up left! What in the hell?!


Hey there. Have you tried using headphones? Does this make the wavy lines go away? And can you explain what exactly you're doing in shmups with the d-pad? I had a youtube user email me about the Pokefami DX and specifically tested diagonals with R-Type III and Gradius 3; I rolled around in several directions and things seemed great to me.

[Choses]

The controllers it comes with are excellent, easily the best clone controllers I've ever used. They feel light, yet solidly built and capable of taking some punishment.

They are great. Well, one of mine is great. The other doesn't register down-right diagonals. I'll open it up to check the problem. Other than that, they are great controllers. They feel good in my hands and are very responsive. Almost as good as using original SNES controllers.


The Supaboy buzz is nonexistent in most games, but you can still faintly hear it in certain games like Super Mario World. What is present is barely audible, unlike the Supaboy's which becomes difficult to ignore even after several minutes of gameplay

-Some of my games have wavy lines through them like there's major sych issues. I thought this might have been caused by something loose internally, but its not something that happens across the board. For example, it occurs with the Super GameBoy every single time I've tried it, but it does not have this issue with Donkey Kong Country 2.

I do hear a buzz, and a high-pitched sound, but I don't know if it was worse with the Supaboy as I didn't try it. What I don't like is that the buzz and high-pitched sound are still present when I listen through headphones. As for the screen, I don't see any wavy lines, it's all good.


-The same deal as the Supaboy, the RDP doesn't seem to properly reconize sweeping diagonal dpad inputs in shumps. In fact, testing it with Zelda, pressing down right actually began to give me the opposite input of up left! What in the hell?!

I tried Gradius I & III, and Zelda ALttP. Moving diagonaly is not always easy, and it will sometimes move in the opposite direction like you said. I don't really like the Dpad, and the ABXY buttons are too far from each other. I will mostly play with the controllers !

From all the games I tested, only two didn't work : Kirby Super Star and Super Mario RPG (obviously). I thought the first release of Mario RPG worked on clones ? I do think I have a first release.
Also, the sound when playing NES games is very bad. There's a lot of "grainy" noise.

Overall, I still like my RDP, I always wanted to have a portable SNES and here I have it. It's not perfect, but it's still good.

[nusilver]

Just got an email from Aaron at DC; the red system's been delayed to 2/28. It was supposed to ship tomorrow.

On one hand - bummer! On the other, I can afford other things right now instead. Sorry I won't be able to compare notes with you guys yet!

[Culex4096]

Mine should be here tomorrow... seeing as how I exchanged the Supaboy for it I'll try to compare the two a little bit. Shame though, it sounds as though the RDP isn't as good as it was supposed to be. Maybe I'll get the Pokefami next?

[TonyTheTiger]

Just got my RetroDuo today. I'm full of piss and vinegar as it's not all I had hoped for, but thankfully it is a step up from the Supaboy in many regards. The audio for my unit seems as near to perfect as its gonna get. It is MUCH better than the Supaboy.

But I'm curious if Choses can help verify some of my findings.

I'll need time to work on a full review but here's my findings so far:

The controllers it comes with are excellent, easily the best clone controllers I've ever used. They feel light, yet solidly built and capable of taking some punishment.

Castlevania III does NOT work. There are severe problems with the audio until the titlescreen, the intro is filled with graphical garbage/glitches, and then the game crashes when actual gameplay should begin.

The NES Powerpak does NOT work with the RetroDuo Portable.

As expected, the NOAC seems to be in the NES to SNES cartridge adapter.

The NOAC sound doesn't seem wrong, but it does seem like its being over-amplified. It's been a while since I had a stock RetroDuo, but I think it might be the same issue all over again. I wonder if an audio dampener can be made to correct this?

The Supaboy buzz is nonexistent in most games, but you can still faintly hear it in certain games like Super Mario World. What is present is barely audible, unlike the Supaboy's which becomes difficult to ignore even after several minutes of gameplay

-Some of my games have wavy lines through them like there's major sych issues. I thought this might have been caused by something loose internally, but its not something that happens across the board. For example, it occurs with the Super GameBoy every single time I've tried it, but it does not have this issue with Donkey Kong Country 2.

-The same deal as the Supaboy, the RDP doesn't seem to properly reconize sweeping diagonal dpad inputs in shumps. In fact, testing it with Zelda, pressing down right actually began to give me the opposite input of up left! What in the hell?!

-Like the Supaboy, Composite video output is dark and grainy.

I'll be testing it further and write up a lengthy detailed review of it, but these are my initial findings.

Holy hell. With all that and it's still a step up from the Supaboy? Does the Supaboy give you Hepatitis C or something?

I dunno. This makes the RDP sound awfully bleak. I don't think I can justify the bones on this thing even if I do like the overall design.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

Holy hell. With all that and it's still a step up from the Supaboy? Does the Supaboy give you Hepatitis C or something?

I dunno. This makes the RDP sound awfully bleak. I don't think I can justify the bones on this thing even if I do like the overall design.

I'm pretty easy to please, so if this is better than the Supaboy I'll probably need to add it to my collection.

As far as the Hep C is concerned, I've been using the Supaboy for a day or two with no protection and I'm testing negative.

the Supaboy that I got from Hyperkin as a RMA replacement for my first unit (which was part of the prototype batch) does NOT have any buzzing at all, and honestly, that makes a world of difference for me. I don't think that the D-Pad is as bad as some people who claim that it has issues with diagonals (that may be a case-by-case unit-by-unit issue).

I'll bring it to the next NAVA or Podcast and you can see for yourself.

[nickerous]

Well, none of this sounds very appealing to me. Maybe I'll just stick to the FC 16 Go.

[kedawa]

It's a real shame that all these clone makers can't get it right.
If these were all $25 novelties, I would cut them some slack, but for the price they're charging, I'd rather get a Dingoo or something.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

Alright guys, reply time!



Hey there. Have you tried using headphones? Does this make the wavy lines go away?

When I say wavy sych-loss lines, I'm talking about horizontal lines that go through the entire length of the screen, not just on the edges. They only occur in certain games (Super Mario World, Yoshi's Island, and Super Gameboy confirmed so far). Putting in headphones does absolutely nothing.



And can you explain what exactly you're doing in shmups with the d-pad? I had a youtube user email me about the Pokefami DX and specifically tested diagonals with R-Type III and Gradius 3; I rolled around in several directions and things seemed great to me.

I'm just simply playing it and finding that the dpad just doesn't respond when you roll and shoot. The Supaboy has this issue too, but with the supaboy the controls just simply lock up and refuse to do anything. - on the RDP, they reverse! So for instance, if your flying down right and the controls lock up, you start flying up and to the left even while you hold down the dpad in the complete other direction. The only way to fix this is to let go of the dpad completely and resume. I've confirmed this occurs with Super R-Type, Axelay, UN Squardron and Gokujou Parodius so far. It likely effects ALL shooters, but I haven't been able to confirm this or not. You can just use an SNES controller or one of the two controllers the system comes with to get around this, but just like the Supaboy, this thing is suppose to be portable. Imagine if you couldn't use the dpad on the PSP and instead had to use some sort of controller coming out the USB port or something. It's ridiculous.


That being said, I do really like the shape and form factor of the RDP. its FAR better than either the FC-16 GO or the Supaboy. The stand, the dongle thing to connect controllers, the way cartridges snap into place, it's got a lot of things going for it. Don't take my initial post to reflect my final verdict. I was just giving a breif initial impressions overview of the problems since I had high hopes that this would somehow be problem-free.




They are great. Well, one of mine is great. The other doesn't register down-right diagonals. I'll open it up to check the problem. Other than that, they are great controllers. They feel good in my hands and are very responsive. Almost as good as using original SNES controllers.

Hm. Both of mine work perfectly. They use the same size and style dpad as a real SNES and I think they're comfortable and the shoulder buttons feel really nice. I hope you can get the other controller working. While you have it apart, please take us some pics. I would take mine apart, but since you said that you're going to do that anyway....


I do hear a buzz, and a high-pitched sound, but I don't know if it was worse with the Supaboy as I didn't try it. What I don't like is that the buzz and high-pitched sound are still present when I listen through headphones. As for the screen, I don't see any wavy lines, it's all good.

Try playing Super Mario World, Yoshi's Island or the SuperGameBoy. All three will have very visible problems.



I tried Gradius I & III, and Zelda ALttP. Moving diagonaly is not always easy, and it will sometimes move in the opposite direction like you said. I don't really like the Dpad, and the ABXY buttons are too far from each other. I will mostly play with the controllers !

I'm somewhat morbidly glad to hear that someone else has experienced the same freaky reversal of controls that I have. It's so weird - I am completely at loss to think of any way to explain that. I love the feel of the RDP's built in dpad and the buttons are alright as well, but I wholeheartedly agree that the ABXY buttons are too far apart. Its much more difficult to reach from the Y button to the A button than it should be.


From all the games I tested, only two didn't work : Kirby Super Star and Super Mario RPG (obviously). I thought the first release of Mario RPG worked on clones ? I do think I have a first release.

I'm glad you mentioned that because I forgot to! My made-in-mexico Mario RPG 1.1 WORKS with the RDP! It does NOT work on the SupaBoy, FC-16 GO or the standalone RetroDuo. This, coupled with the fact that the screen doesn't have sych issues, makes me very pleased with the RDP and is a big step in the right direction.


Also, the sound when playing NES games is very bad. There's a lot of "grainy" noise.

For me, this is by far the most disappointing aspect, though I'm hopeful some tech-head amongst us can weasel out a solution. the standalone RetroDuo has a similar audio defect with the NES side, and this can be cleaned up by adding in a simple audio dampener. I'm hoping something similar can be rigged for the RDP. As I said before, the NOAC is in the cartridge adapter.



the Supaboy that I got from Hyperkin as a RMA replacement for my first unit (which was part of the prototype batch) does NOT have any buzzing at all, and honestly, that makes a world of difference for me.

Wow man thats pretty cool. How does it feel to be the ONLY PERSON to have a Supaboy without audio issues?


Well, none of this sounds very appealing to me. Maybe I'll just stick to the FC 16 Go.

As much as I want to, I honestly can't really argue against that. Despite its crazy short battery life and crappy screen, the FC-16 GO has the best sound, the best video output to a tv, awesome wireless controllers and is also the cheapest of the three (four if you count the PokeFami DX)


It's a real shame that all these clone makers can't get it right.
If these were all $25 novelties, I would cut them some slack, but for the price they're charging, I'd rather get a Dingoo or something.

There's no way this would ever happen. the profit margin for these devices is likely extremely low. I seriously doubt Yobo, Hyperkin or RetroBit are making that much money selling these. I'm not trying to defend the companies or anything, but I'm just saying that you are being completely unrealistic if you expect reverse engineered hardware clones to ever be cheap, especially handheld ones.

[TonyTheTiger]

There's no way this would ever happen. the profit margin for these devices is likely extremely low. I seriously doubt Yobo, Hyperkin or RetroBit are making that much money selling these. I'm not trying to defend the companies or anything, but I'm just saying that you are being completely unrealistic if you expect reverse engineered hardware clones to ever be cheap, especially handheld ones.

What he's saying is that had these been cheapy novelties then the problems wouldn't be much of an issue but for the price they're actually charging people should be able to expect the hardware to be mostly problem-free. Incompatibility issues with some games aren't even the real problem. But when they're charging nearly $100 for something, there's no excuse for consistent audio problems and reversing controls. I don't mind paying $100 for an SNES portable. But if I'm going to shell that out the thing better work right.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

Wow man thats pretty cool. How does it feel to be the ONLY PERSON to have a Supaboy without audio issues?

Well, the only one in the DP community perhaps, but surely not the only PERSON.

As Tofu stated, they identified and corrected the buzzing issue in production and the batch after the initial run has that corrected. There's probably tons of them in the wild without that issue.

Any post-prototype batch that still buzz was likely based on some mix-up during manufacturing where they used old parts or packed/shipped prototype stock.

Based on reports in these threads that those who sent their units in immediately got buzzers back I waited a good couple of months after the issue was rectified to send my unit in for replacement.

When I did make a move to get my unit replaced, I didn't have any major issues with contacting their customer service department .... so I guess I feel fortunate that I didn't run into any trouble.

Based on reports of high-pitched squealing with the RDP I'm going to similarly wait for a V2 with these as well.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

there is really no buzzing issue with SNES games on the RDP.It sounds pretty much exactly like the FC-16 GO. The issue is in the NES games. I can't put my finger on it exactly - its like there is audio distortion in the square waves. Perhaps this can be corrected, I don't know. It is very disappointing that the NOAC isn't the same one used for the RetroDuo standalone since Castlevania III doesn't work. I can successfully get Akumajou Densetsu to boot without major graphical errors, but the square waves are heavily distorted, and none of the expansion channels the VRC6 provides come through at all.

Oh and while I'm talking about the NES adapter, it does the weirdest thing! For WHATEVER REASON, RetroBit mapped the NES B and A buttons to the SNES B and A buttons!! You might think this makes sense, but no! When Nintendo designed the Super Famicom controller, they deliberately mapped SNES Y to NES B and SNES B to NES A. This was done because early in development, the Super Famicom was originally going to be backwards compatible with the Famicom. Even after the Famicom support was dropped, Nintendo still stuck to the Y and B structure for the vast majority of games starting with Super Mario World.

This choice on Nintendo's part worked out great for clones like the RetroDuo which use SNES controllers to play NES games. On the RD, you just plug in a real SNES controller and away you go, using Y and B.

So yeah, it is extremely odd that RetroBit would have gone out of their way to override that and remap the inputs to B and A on the SNES pad. This makes NES controllers modded to work on the SNES or RetroDuo useless on the RDP since NES B corrisponds to SNES Y, and this adapter leaves Y unmapped.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

there is really no buzzing issue with SNES games on the RDP.It sounds pretty much exactly like the FC-16 GO. The issue is in the NES games. I can't put my finger on it exactly - its like there is audio distortion in the square waves. Perhaps this can be corrected, I don't know. It is very disappointing that the NOAC isn't the same one used for the RetroDuo standalone since Castlevania III doesn't work. I can successfully get Akumajou Densetsu to boot without major graphical errors, but the square waves are heavily distorted, and none of the expansion channels the VRC6 provides come through at all.

Oh and while I'm talking about the NES adapter, it does the weirdest thing! For WHATEVER REASON, RetroBit mapped the NES B and A buttons to the SNES B and A buttons!! You might think this makes sense, but no! When Nintendo designed the Super Famicom controller, they deliberately mapped SNES Y to NES B and SNES B to NES A. This was done because early in development, the Super Famicom was originally going to be backwards compatible with the Famicom. Even after the Famicom support was dropped, Nintendo still stuck to the Y and B structure for the vast majority of games starting with Super Mario World.

This choice on Nintendo's part worked out great for clones like the RetroDuo which use SNES controllers to play NES games. On the RD, you just plug in a real SNES controller and away you go, using Y and B.

So yeah, it is extremely odd that RetroBit would have gone out of their way to override that and remap the inputs to B and A on the SNES pad. This makes NES controllers modded to work on the SNES or RetroDuo useless on the RDP since NES B corrisponds to SNES Y, and this adapter leaves Y unmapped.

So, I take it that the RDP uses actual SNES controller inputs, or does it use proprietary controllers that you opened and did wire traces to the button maps?

Actually, I see that the unit has a mini USB controller adapter.

So, does this effect using REAL SNES pads on SNES games, or just real SNES pads on NES games where the Y doesn't function?

[Choses]

Try playing Super Mario World, Yoshi's Island or the SuperGameBoy. All three will have very visible problems.

I tried Super Mario World and Yoshi's Island, and the screen was perfect. I wonder why your RDP has a problem with that.

[Culex4096]

I got my RDP today, turned it on and almost immediately boxed it back up. A lit green pixel was dead center and so I decided to return it and get a new one. I played around with it briefly and was impressed by SNES compatibility. Also, the controller attachment is very very tight. And like Satoshi Matrix has been saying though, the NES sound is weird. Not bad, but weird. However, the one thing I noticed is that my screen was not as crisp as my Supaboy screen..... and yes I removed the plastic screen protector XD. Overall, I'm waiting for a new one now I suppose.

Oh, and Genesis games seem to play pretty well too with the Retrogen. Not great because it is a rather cheap GOAC, but the adapter works just as well as it does on my SNES.

[kedawa]

What he's saying is that had these been cheapy novelties then the problems wouldn't be much of an issue but for the price they're actually charging people should be able to expect the hardware to be mostly problem-free. Incompatibility issues with some games aren't even the real problem. But when they're charging nearly $100 for something, there's no excuse for consistent audio problems and reversing controls. I don't mind paying $100 for an SNES portable. But if I'm going to shell that out the thing better work right.

Exactly.
The problems present in these clones are inexcusable for a finished product at that price point.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

So, I take it that the RDP uses actual SNES controller inputs, or does it use proprietary controllers that you opened and did wire traces to the button maps?

Uhhh what? the RDP uses a bridge connector that allows you to use any 7-pin SNES controller with it. The Controllers it comes with are standard 7-pin SNES style controllers that work with anything that has a SNES connection.




Actually, I see that the unit has a mini USB controller adapter.

Not quite. Its a proprietary connector slightly different from USB. It allows you to use any two 7-pin SNES controllers.




So, does this effect using REAL SNES pads on SNES games, or just real SNES pads on NES games where the Y doesn't function?

No; NES B and A being mapped the SNES B and A only affects the NES adapter. In SNES mode, all of the standart SNES buttons are mapped correctly. This is only an NES issue.


I tried Super Mario World and Yoshi's Island, and the screen was perfect. I wonder why your RDP has a problem with that.

I've since discovered you have to really force your cartridges into position before hitting the power switch. I find it helps to physically hold the game cartridge in place when I power it on to ensure the wavy line issues don't occur. I'll explain what I mean when I do a video review this weekend.



Exactly.
The problems present in these clones are inexcusable for a finished product at that price point.

This is just the nature of clones from China. The parts supplies DO NOT CARE. Yelling at Hyperkin/Retrobit/Yobo or whatever is somewhat of a wasted effort. You really should be yelling at Shenzhen Qi Sheng Long as they're the ones who actually produce 90% of all these clones.

[Akito01]

You must defeat Shenzhen Qi Sheng Long to stand a chance!

[Leo_A]

It's still ultimately their fault. If they can't get decent suppliers, they shouldn't be doing this in the first place. It's no excuse.

[MarioMania]

Looks like if I have the Money, I'll get the Supaboy with the RetroGen Adapter..

I'm just waiting for Satoshi_Matrix review this weekend

[TonyTheTiger]

It's still ultimately their fault. If they can't get decent suppliers, they shouldn't be doing this in the first place. It's no excuse.

Or at least be more up front about it. I mean, I get it. Clones have problems. Anybody that adamant about perfection should use original hardware. Fair enough. But I've read a bunch of old threads and it seems like a game. Some new clone comes out, the sellers paint it as superior to the competition, they're light on the actual details until release, the potential buyers get excited, then people actually get the thing and notice problems. Is there really ANY reason why people weren't allowed to know about the controller actually reversing itself until after they bought the thing?

[Culex4096]

Looks like if I have the Money, I'll get the Supaboy with the RetroGen Adapter..

I'm just waiting for Satoshi_Matrix review this weekend

Yeah, I love Satoshi Matrix's reviews...... hopefully he'll do a video review like he did with the Supaboy *wink* *wink*

[csgx1]

I'm just simply playing it and finding that the dpad just doesn't respond when you roll and shoot. The Supaboy has this issue too, but with the supaboy the controls just simply lock up and refuse to do anything. - on the RDP, they reverse! So for instance, if your flying down right and the controls lock up, you start flying up and to the left even while you hold down the dpad in the complete other direction. The only way to fix this is to let go of the dpad completely and resume. I've confirmed this occurs with Super R-Type, Axelay, UN Squardron and Gokujou Parodius so far. It likely effects ALL shooters, but I haven't been able to confirm this or not. You can just use an SNES controller or one of the two controllers the system comes with to get around this, but just like the Supaboy, this thing is suppose to be portable. Imagine if you couldn't use the dpad on the PSP and instead had to use some sort of controller coming out the USB port or something. It's ridiculous.




The dpad problem sounds like a major issue and possibly a deal breaker for me since I usually only focus on shooters and fighting games. I saw your excellent review on the Supaboy which was the main reason why I held off on the Supaboy. I would imagine that there are issues with the Street Fighter controls on the RDP as well? Do certain moves or combos lock up or can't easily be performed? Maybe you could possibly elaborate more on the Street Fighter control problem if you have the time.

I'm really looking forward to your RDP review.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

You must defeat Shenzhen Qi Sheng Long to stand a chance!

lol truer words have never been spoken.


Looks like if I have the Money, I'll get the Supaboy with the RetroGen Adapter..

I'm just waiting for Satoshi_Matrix review this weekend


Yeah, I love Satoshi Matrix's reviews...... hopefully he'll do a video review like he did with the Supaboy *wink* *wink*

Thanks for your support guys! I actually want to make this my 500th Subscriber Special - As of this post, I'm currently setting at 492 subscribers. I'd like to actually make that number 500 before posting the full video review filled with many things I've only scratched the surface on here.

So as much as I hate shameless self promition.....time for some shameless self premotion! If you guys haven't yet, please subscribe to my channel. I post tech reviews all the time showing off unusual controllers, adapters and hardware. If you want the scoop on weird imported Japanese controllers or want more info on a particular Famiclone, this is the place for you.

http://www.youtube.com/user/SatoshiMatrix1



Or at least be more up front about it. I mean, I get it. Clones have problems. Anybody that adamant about perfection should use original hardware. Fair enough. But I've read a bunch of old threads and it seems like a game. Some new clone comes out, the sellers paint it as superior to the competition, they're light on the actual details until release, the potential buyers get excited, then people actually get the thing and notice problems. Is there really ANY reason why people weren't allowed to know about the controller actually reversing itself until after they bought the thing?

As much as it sucks, it sort of makes sense from a marketing point of view. They make a product and want to hide its flaws to the consumer. Its up to consumer reports to reveal the truth. Think of really anything - videogames, movies, whatever. The developers come out with the game or film and they don't tell you what they produced is a pile of garbage even if that IS the case. It's up to reviewers to do that. I'm saying its right, but its not like clone makers are special or unique in any way. Just saying.

Also remember that my comments about the dpad only applies to the build-in dpad. The Supaboy has the same issues with its built in dpad but in its case the controls just freeze until you release the dpad. The RDP allows you to use the dongle and attach real controllers or the excellent included ones to play your games on the go. The sytem comes with a nice little stand that allows it to be set up on a table or desk or whatever and you can play with the controller. It might not be ideal for a portable device but its serviceable.


The dpad problem sounds like a major issue and possibly a deal breaker for me since I usually only focus on shooters and fighting games. I saw your excellent review on the Supaboy which was the main reason why I held off on the Supaboy. I would imagine that there are issues with the Street Fighter controls on the RDP as well? Do certain moves or combos lock up or can't easily be performed? Maybe you could possibly elaborate more on the Street Fighter control problem if you have the time.

I'm really looking forward to your RDP review.

Again keep in mind my comments about the dpad only are about the system's built-in dad. It does come with a controlelr adapter to use real SNES controllers as well as two of its own controllers which are absolutely fantastic. Not enough things can be said about the included controllers. But if you are concerned about Fighters, don't worry. Super Street Fighter II plays perfect on the RDP. The dpad is very quick and responsive. My problems with the dpad going haywire only seem to affect shumps. On the RDP controls I can fire off hidokens, cannon drills and shoryukens as easy as pie.

Thank you for your support! I'll have a review up as soon as I hit 500 subs. Only eight to go!


Big announcement!

With the help of Ace and my good friend Emiliano, I've discovered that you CAN get Castlevania III to work on the RDP! It involves wiring a NAND gate or a NOT gate (I used a NOT gate) across pins 65 and 58 invert the A13 output. All you need to do is wire a NAND or NOT gate between these two pins and then apply 5v and a source of ground. In my case, I stole 5v from pin 36 and ground from pin 72. Wired it all up and sure enough, completely playable CV3! The audio is still messed up for it and certain other games, so there still needs to be some sort of fix for that.

I should also mention that audio issues for NES games are NOT universal. Some NES games sound completely fine when you play them on the RDP through the build-in speakers. For example, Megaman 2, Megaman 3, Castlevania 1, Metroid, and even Action 52 all sound completely normal. Its only when you plug in headphones that nasty things start to occur with the audio.

Anyway that'll be it for now! Again, please keep an eye on my youtube channel as I'll have new stuff coming tomorrow.

While I think of it, one more question for Oldskoolfool if he's lurking -

What the heck happened to the announced NES retroport with AV output? I want to be able to use the NES thing on my SNES without the aid of the TriStar!

[TonyTheTiger]

As much as it sucks, it sort of makes sense from a marketing point of view. They make a product and want to hide its flaws to the consumer.

Of course I understand that. Except what happens is that you lose people's goodwill after a while. You keep it up and nobody is going to trust you when you're trying to sell your third or fourth product and everybody starts doing what Frankie said and wait for a fixed revision. So just do it right the first time and be done with it.

[Culex4096]

What the heck happened to the announced NES retroport with AV output? I want to be able to use the NES thing on my SNES without the aid of the TriStar!

I look for the Retroport everyday on almost every site that comes to mind and I've seen and heard nothing...... however yesterday I noticed on Innex's website that it's on sale on Innex's site, but only for wholesalers. I would expect it to be out in a week or two :(. Oh, and I would subscribe to your channel, but I subscribed a few weeks ago XD.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

got a link? I'd like to check that out myself.

[Culex4096]

got a link? I'd like to check that out myself.

http://www.innexinc.com/product_detail.php?prod_id=RB-NES-6072&frm_search=retroport&btn_search=Search&page_num=0

Here ya go.

[nusilver]

Looks like if I have the Money, I'll get the Supaboy with the RetroGen Adapter..

I'm just waiting for Satoshi_Matrix review this weekend

Just remember that the Supaboy didn't display anything on its built in screen with the Japanese version of these adapters, so it's not likely it will do that with the US versions either.

[Culex4096]

Just remember that the Supaboy didn't display anything on its built in screen with the Japanese version of these adapters, so it's not likely it will do that with the US versions either.

I can confirm that the Supaboy doesn't display anything on the screen when using the Retrogen.... the audio you can hear though, but what's the point of that.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

The same is true with the NES adapter that the RDP comes with. You can put it into an SNES and sound will be output through the tv and controls are mapped to the SNES pad, but you won't able to see anything. Hence the "only compatible with RDP crap they put on the back. I wonder if this can be modified?

[MarioMania]

I tried Gradius I & III, and Zelda ALttP. Moving diagonaly is not always easy, and it will sometimes move in the opposite direction like you said. I don't really like the Dpad, and the ABXY buttons are too far from each other. I will mostly play with the controllers !

That really turns me off

How about games like Street Fighter 2 Turbo??

[nusilver]

You know, I think I am going to cancel my RDP pre-order. Honestly, the only reason I had it ordered to begin with was that I wanted to compare it to the Pokefami DX, and possibly swap out the screens because of my 1 stuck pixel...but I don't even notice it while I'm playing, so I guess, what's the point?

I've been sampling shmups all morning - Gradius III, R-Type 3, and Rendering Ranger. Zero problems with diagonals. Here's a short video demonstrating this. Note my 7-year-old nephew is recording for me and provides brief narration. (also my 9 year old nephew is playing Kingdom Hearts BBS, so that is why you're hearing "huh! ha! huh! ha!")

Satoshi_Matrix, I'll get the Sonic video recorded tomorrow when I'm not babysitting.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHwq3jdC3Mc

[Satoshi_Matrix]

I dont have Street Fighter II Turbo, but I do have Super Street Fighter II. It plays perfectly fine with the built in dpad. Fighting games are a non-issue.

[nusilver]

FYI, I've cancelled my pre-order for this. Sorry I won't be able to make any direct comparisons between this and the PDX, but I've spent several hundreds dollars on games in the past week and am planning on picking up an FDS next week...so this has to go on the back burner for now.
Still looking forward to Satoshi_Matrix's review!

[Culex4096]

FYI, I've cancelled my pre-order for this. Sorry I won't be able to make any direct comparisons between this and the PDX, but I've spent several hundreds dollars on games in the past week and am planning on picking up an FDS next week...so this has to go on the back burner for now.
Still looking forward to Satoshi_Matrix's review!

Yeah, don't feel pressured into getting the RDP, the PDX seems to be as good if not better than it anyway. No point in wasting the money on it.

[Culex4096]

Also, I believe that some unknown forces don't want me to have a RDP. My first one was defective and so I returned it and I was supposed to get my replacement today and despite Fedex claiming that they have delivered the package almost 8 hours ago, I don't have it. Why, gaming gods, why?

[Culex4096]

Also, I believe that some unknown forces don't want me to have a RDP. My first one was defective and so I returned it and I was supposed to get my replacement today and despite Fedex claiming that they have delivered the package almost 8 hours ago, I don't have it. Why, gaming gods, why?

Nevermind I got it...... but it's defective. Screen flickers when volume is too high and the Retroport and Retrogen only play audio, no video thru the screen. F***....... now I have to get another one........ again!!!

[thegamezmaster]

Sorry if this has been asked but I couldn't find. Does the RetroGen adapter work on a FC 16 Go? Can anyone confirm? Thanks!

[Satoshi_Matrix]

Yes, it works, but it doesn't output video to anything but the RDP. So you can use the FC-16 GO's controls and you'll get sound output, but no video signal. Same with the Supaboy.

[Cryog]

Review in Japanese.

Retro Duo Portable 開封＆プレイレビュー(unboxing&review)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=spoQeJ38frY

The RDP and the pokeFAMI DX are twin sisters.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

Well, they're sisters for sure, but not twins. The RDP hardware is slightly different and in a different shell. Also it comes with an NES NOAC adapter and two of the best clone controllers the world has ever seen. Check out my four part video review on youtube to learn more.

[Cryog]

I saw your videos, Satoshi_Matrix. Great review. But I stand in my comment. They have the same hardware but with a different shell. But the RDP includes 2 controls and the NES adapter. And the PokeFAMI DX adapters work perfectly in the RDP.

[Ace]

Cryog, you're *almost* correct. The PokeFami DX and the RetroDuo Portable do share the same motherboard design, but it seems the RetroDuo Portable has a newer revision of the PokeFami DX's motherboard with the volume slider directly on the motherboard rather than on the top of the case. It's a bit hard to see because there's only a small segment of the PokeFami DX's motherboard shown, but if you compare what you can see of its motherboard:

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b296/nusilver/Pokefami%20DX%20Guts/91b16d14.jpg

To the same spot on the RetroDuo Portable:

http://oi39.tinypic.com/2uzwcpw.jpg

You'll see they share the same motherboard design.

Also, remind me if there's visible interference on the RetroDuo Portable's screen depending on how far up you turn up the volume slider? Nusilver posted this on the BenHeck forums: http://forums.benheck.com/viewtopic.php?p=457956#p457956

From what he says, it seems the PokeFami DX has the audio circuitry located directly under the screen (a VERY bad place to put audio circuitry, if you ask me). Is the audio circuitry on the RetroDuo Portable located in the same place? If it is, you may be able to eliminate the interference by putting a small shield between the screen and the audio circuitry. What you may be able to do is to take an RF shield, cut it up to size, solder it to Ground, then cover the cut up shield in some non-conductive material. If that doesn't work, I'm not sure what else can be done to fix this issue unless I get a RetroDuo Portable for myself (I might get one soon, though).

[Cryog]

Ace, thank you for the pictures and the info. :cool:

[zin0099]

just got my retrogen adapter ran it on my retroduo 2.0 and love it! i only have 3 games but they worked

games:
x-men 3 clone wars
road rash 2
strider 2/strider returns journey from the darkness

going to get the retroport just for fun and possible get rid of retron3!

[Satoshi_Matrix]

which model RetorN3 do you have? If you're looking to get rid of it, pm me. I'm looking for a new one myself.

[zin0099]

on the back of mine it says retron3 tri-system
hyperkin
item #M05488-RD
made in china

if i sell it to u how would we do this over paypal? or i sell it on ebay when u are on?

[Ace]

I apologize for butting in, but from what the sticker on the bottom of your RetroN3 says, Zin, it's a Version 2. Absolutely horrible compared to the Version 1. The only things better about the Version 2 have to do with the NES side's compatibility and sound (volume level only, not the overall sound, which is a bit worse as the DPCM is weird and WAY too loud), but the Genesis side is unchanged and the Super NES side has unbearably distorted sound.

[zin0099]

wow i didn't know there was even a version 2 but yeah my retroduo 2.0 works much better and now with the addon with retrogen adapter i would say hyperkin model sucks not to say that hyperkin is complete trash i like there stuff but they can't beat retro-bit

[zin0099]

I apologize for butting in, but from what the sticker on the bottom of your RetroN3 says, Zin, it's a Version 2. Absolutely horrible compared to the Version 1. The only things better about the Version 2 have to do with the NES side's compatibility and sound (volume level only, not the overall sound, which is a bit worse as the DPCM is weird and WAY too loud), but the Genesis side is unchanged and the Super NES side has unbearably distorted sound.

oh yeah i wouldn't say it's an inprovement cuss my super mario bros./duct hunt/world class track meet doesn't work unless u really play with the cartridge which is really funny to me that the retroduo 2.0 plays it just fine with no hassle, just plug and play!

[Old_Skool_Fool]

You must defeat Shenzhen Qi Sheng Long to stand a chance!

Hahaha, that's great!

Hey everyone, it's been awhile and been pretty busy and last I tried stopping by, it seemed DP was down due to some intergalactic net criminals..lol



Anyways, just wanted everyone to know about the newest Super UFO 8 Pro (http://www.dascheap.com/snes-adapter-super-ufo-pro-8.html) device out now here (Compatible with the RDP), and honestly wanted somebody's help regarding the in-depth compatibility/review (This thing seems pretty badass!) And will work with the RDP!.


I think Satoshi did a bang up job on the in-depth RDP review, so if you PM me and I'll hit you back with some delicious details, and and awesome kickback for it.


Also in the meantime, I just wanted everyone to know about the new Free Giveaways Das Cheap (http://www.dascheap.com/free-giveaways.html) that are open to everyone (no purchase necessary) and can find out the details above!

[Satoshi_Matrix]

Sure, I'll hear you out. PM'd.

[Purkeynator]

Sure, I'll hear you out. PM'd.

I wouldn't do business with Satoshi_Matrix. He ripped me off $42 and still refuses to pay up.

[Old_Skool_Fool]

For all those looking to get their hands on a RDP!!


Das Cheap has their online giveaways (http://www.dascheap.com/free-giveaways.html) this week for the Retro Duo Portable.


Plus, a handful of Japanese Super Famicom games with it as well.


So if you were looking to get one for the big fat price of Nothing! Now here's your chance!

[nickerous]

Soooo, has anyone tried v2.0 of this handheld? I see auctions for a new version on ebay and wanted to see if the screen and dpad issues were fixed, as the seller is claiming...

[nickerous]

I got version 2 today and after playing with it for a bit, I can safely say that the D-pad is very responsive. I had no trouble with lag or stickiness. The buttons feel like they are just the right distance apart and the screen is awesome. Never had v1 of the RDP, but v2 blows the FC 16 Go out of the water. No comparison. I haven't tried any of the special chip games, but plan on doing that later tonight.

The only two negatives are the shoulder buttons are a bit awkward at first. Nothing I can't get used to though. The other negative is the NES portal. I only tried Mega Man 2 and couldn't get it to work. I'm not against the idea of a two in one portable, but this makes me think of the Game Axe and playing NES games with a famicom adapter. It's not THAT bad, but it feels the same to me. I still have the Game Axe, but never play it. Personally, I like the FC Mobile 2 for my NES portable needs, but I can see how having two for 1 price would be appealing. If I did not have the FC mobile 2, I would make do with this portal.

[Akito01]

Thanks very much for the feedback. I'm VERY close to ordering one of these myself as well, though in a month when the WiiU comes out, I'm debating on shelling out the hundred bucks for it. I generally liked my SupaBoy, but the D pad and especially the shoulder buttons response isn't great on that machine.

I always thought the implementation of NES compatibility on this device was a bit ridiculous, and if it is the same as the RetroPort adapter, then that would also be a bummer because that thing was not awesome.

Given that the FC Mobile II uses AA batteries, I'd really like to see a proper refresh on the portable NES idea. I didn't have an issue with it at the time it came out, but now the FC Mobile II's screen looks super super tiny (playing NES games on the 3DS XL will do that).

[Ace]

I got version 2 today and after playing with it for a bit, I can safely say that the D-pad is very responsive. I had no trouble with lag or stickiness. The buttons feel like they are just the right distance apart and the screen is awesome. Never had v1 of the RDP, but v2 blows the FC 16 Go out of the water. No comparison. I haven't tried any of the special chip games, but plan on doing that later tonight.

Can you press the D-pad down in its entirety or is there a peg to prevent that. I know on the RetroDuo Portable v1.0, the D-pad can be pressed in its entirety, so I'm wondering if the same can be done with the RetroDuo Portable v2.0.

What I'm wondering, too, is if the RetroPort's NOAC has changed at all. The NOAC used in the RetroDuo Portable v1.0's RetroPort was inferior to the RetroDuo home console, so I'd be curious to know if RetroBit brought the RetroPort up to the RetroDuo home system's NES accuracy (murdered by missing components) and compatibility.

[nickerous]

They fixed the dpad registering all directions when pressed in the center, if that's what you are talking about. As for the NES port, I haven't messed with that much. Were there any games that would not work with v1?

[kedawa]

How can I tell one version from the other?
A local shop has some in, but nothing on the package says "v2.0".

[nickerous]

Here's a link to the amazon page for v2. The box art is different.

http://www.amazon.com/NES-SNES-RetroDuo-Portable-Handheld-Console/dp/B009SE735Y/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1352334043&sr=8-2&keywords=Rdp+v2

[kedawa]

So it doesn't come with the extra controllers?

[nickerous]

Nope, just the system, av cable, ac charger, the nes portal, and a manual.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

They fixed the dpad registering all directions when pressed in the center, if that's what you are talking about. As for the NES port, I haven't messed with that much. Were there any games that would not work with v1?

Oh man, that's some good news there.

I find that the SuperUFO Pro 8 SD flash cart works really well with the SupaBoy, so I'm in no rush to get another SNES/NES portable, but for those in the market for one, that D-Pad thing sounded like the biggest issue with the otherwise excellent Retro Duo Portable.

Really happy to hear that they cleared that up.

Has anybody tried the SuperUFO Pro 8 with the Retro Duo Portable?

[nickerous]

Pretty sure I'm going to buy a flash cart next. Debating on getting the UFO now or wait for the SD2snes or powerpak. I have the money for the UFO now, but may save up for one of the others...the big plus for the UFO is that I could backup my original cart saves.

[kedawa]

I wish someone would design a high quality SFC/SNES clone with an SD slot built in.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

I wish someone would design a high quality SFC/SNES clone with an SD slot built in.

Well, while they don't have an SNES cartridge slot proper, there are plenty of good emulation-centric Linux and Android based portables coming out of China and elsewhere that have SD slots and play SNES games just fine.

Dingoo, Wiz, Pandora, Yinlips to name a few.

[nusilver]

Hey all, long time no talkie. I ordered a RDP 2.0 when I heard the screen was sharper - had it shipped overnight (thanks for the Amazon link above!) and will receive it tomorrow. I'll be able to compare it to my Pokefami DX - can't wait to see the new unit!

[Bazoo]

Cool, nusilver! This product seemed neat on conception but ultimately I held off for the revision due to the inconsistencies in the D-Pad. If you could, when you receive it, answer if 2.0 has:

--A better D-Pad? (Most Important)
--Retained quality of pack-in controllers?
--A/V Out that is packed in has better quality? (least important of the three)

Thanks!

[nusilver]

Cool, nusilver! This product seemed neat on conception but ultimately I held off for the revision due to the inconsistencies in the D-Pad. If you could, when you receive it, could answer if 2.0 has:

--A better D-Pad? (Most Important)
--Retained quality of pack-in controllers?
--A/V Out that is packed in has better quality? (least of the three)

Thanks!

Happy to! It's out for delivery now.

I can answer # 2 now - the unit I ordered was the "core" version, and doesn't come with the pack-in controllers. I don't know if there's a non-core version - I'm staying the heck away from dascheap, but maybe they have a non-core variant?

[nusilver]

screen is much sharper: it appears to show every pixel. also, much cooler image - maniac mansion splash screen shows bright orange on my pokefami DX, but deep red here.
no dead pixels.
face buttons are closer together.
d-pad is the same size and shape as a real SNES controller, but pretty stiff. needs breaking in.
yoshi's island does not work. loads nintendo logo, then black screen.
super mario rpg works.

gotta go. looks like i'll have to do another in-depth video review like i did with the pokefami dx, but from first impressions, i'm very, very happy with it (mostly because of the screen), yoshi's island aside.

[nusilver]

screen is much sharper: it appears to show every pixel. also, much cooler image - maniac mansion splash screen shows bright orange on my pokefami DX, but deep red here.
no dead pixels.
face buttons are closer together.
d-pad is the same size and shape as a real SNES controller, but pretty stiff. needs breaking in.
yoshi's island does not work. loads nintendo logo, then black screen.
super mario rpg works.

gotta go. looks like i'll have to do another in-depth video review like i did with the pokefami dx, but from first impressions, i'm very, very happy with it (mostly because of the screen), yoshi's island aside.

Forgot to mention the sound - there are pluses and minuses here. The MAJOR plus is that the screen doesn't distort due to the sound - no matter how loud you turn the volume up. On the flip side, the speakers are tinny and the left one already sounds like it's blown. At mid volume, things are fine, and I'm still most likely to play with headphones anyway - but at least that horrible feedback in the picture is gone. I can't overstate how happy that makes me. More to come, but the next couple of weeks are pretty busy. Keep bugging me with questions and I'll do my best to answer 'em!

p.s. Apple headphones still don't work here - just like my Pokefami DX.
p.p.s. the "RDP-only" Retroport works fine with the Pokefami DX. :)

[nusilver]

Forgot to mention the sound - there are pluses and minuses here. The MAJOR plus is that the screen doesn't distort due to the sound - no matter how loud you turn the volume up. On the flip side, the speakers are tinny and the left one already sounds like it's blown. At mid volume, things are fine, and I'm still most likely to play with headphones anyway - but at least that horrible feedback in the picture is gone. I can't overstate how happy that makes me. More to come, but the next couple of weeks are pretty busy. Keep bugging me with questions and I'll do my best to answer 'em!

p.s. Apple headphones still don't work here - just like my Pokefami DX.
p.p.s. the "RDP-only" Retroport works fine with the Pokefami DX. :)

More impressions of the 2.0. All negative:

1) The speakers are definitely CRAP compared to the Pokefami DX/RDP 1.0. They're half as loud, and tinny no matter how loudly you turn them up. I believe they may be blown - I will probably swap them with the speakers on my PFDX but I need to get out the soldering iron, and I'm not in love with the idea as I'm not super confident with that yet.

2) Compatibility is much WORSE than on the Pokefami DX/RDP 1.0. On the PFDX, I was able to get Kirby Super Star to boot one out of every 20-30 times. Here, it boots every time. great. However - Illusion of Gaia, Mega Man X2, Mega Man X3, Yoshi's Island, and Starfox 2 - none of these work here. They all work fine on the other unit. Is there an FX chip in Gaia that I'm unaware of?

Overall, I'm torn. I LOVE the screen - finally, somebody got the screen perfect on a portable SNES. But the sound kills me and the compatibility - specifically, not being able to play Yoshi's Island on the go - is a huge bummer. Video review will come next month some time.

[nusilver]

More impressions of the 2.0. All negative:

1) The speakers are definitely CRAP compared to the Pokefami DX/RDP 1.0. They're half as loud, and tinny no matter how loudly you turn them up. I believe they may be blown - I will probably swap them with the speakers on my PFDX but I need to get out the soldering iron, and I'm not in love with the idea as I'm not super confident with that yet.

2) Compatibility is much WORSE than on the Pokefami DX/RDP 1.0. On the PFDX, I was able to get Kirby Super Star to boot one out of every 20-30 times. Here, it boots every time. great. However - Illusion of Gaia, Mega Man X2, Mega Man X3, Yoshi's Island, and Starfox 2 - none of these work here. They all work fine on the other unit. Is there an FX chip in Gaia that I'm unaware of?

Overall, I'm torn. I LOVE the screen - finally, somebody got the screen perfect on a portable SNES. But the sound kills me and the compatibility - specifically, not being able to play Yoshi's Island on the go - is a huge bummer. Video review will come next month some time.

Quick update: I got Yoshi's Island and Illusion of Gaia working. Clean contacts is the key! Though in the process, the RDP erased my Yoshi's Island save. Not happy about this!