Forgot to mention the footage at the end is from a range of settings and aspect ratios I tried until I settled on the 4:3 1080p settings. It was a fun project and worth it in the end for what I wanted out of it.
An important thing to note with the Retro GEM and part of the controversy with it is that the "shiny" upgrade can be purchased at any time even after the device has been installed. So the basic edition of the GEM theoretically has the capability of doing the shiny upgrade but the extra $70 needs to be paid to "unlock" the capability. Some people may not use the functionality but it's annoying to know that the functionality is there just locked behind a paywall.
@@knightsurdaisn't that what DLC is? Everyone flocks to that. Even MK1 got people paying for fatalities which is just a movie you don't get to interact with
@@alexandersalazar9750 If ppl spend Money on a fatality animation, that's totally there fault. Noone really need this. But having a System Update that makes things alot better and have to pay for it, is more like you have to spend money for a Patch, not for a dlc. At the end it just let it look like, that ppl are forced to pay the 190$, because the basic thing is not the whole package. (and i think even 120$ for the basic is expensive)
Why are people so pissed at this? I love the option for a basic edition. I got it for the PS1 and saved all that money. I’d rather them offer that than pay extra money for stuff I don’t want/need. More options is never a bad thing. If you don’t like it, vote with your wallet.
@@mpowerness92 Simple Answer: It's easy possible to sell it for 120$ but goes the premium price way. It's not like they sell actuall better hardware, only locking what the thing already can, behind a paywall.
I just picked up a PS2, Xbox 360, and Wii with the intention of modding all 3 of them to some extent. Wii Homebrew is well established, and the PS2 and Xbox 360 have been getting a lot of love lately. 6th and 7th gen consoles/games were the best, in my opinion, so wanted a way to play any of those games when I want to. Would love to see you do something like this with the 360.
Waste of time and money for me. The only WiiU games that I care about have all been remastered into Switch games just like all the other WiiU games that were worth anything. Like I said in my original comment, The 6th and 7th Gen console games were my favorite, and I can play all of them on native hardware now. I don't care at all about having a WiiU, so it would be a waste for me. Plus the Wii and has one of if not the most fleshed out Homebrew scene out of any home console. I can even order pizza with it. Lolol
@@itranscendencei7964 lol Wii U modding scene is literally the same thing as the Wii modding the difference is playing Wii games on the Wii U is much much better because of the HDMI output plus there are tons of great Wii and Wii U games that are still not ported to modern platforms so its really handy to have a Wii U cuz its a bang for your buck so its really not about the games you really cared about its about having the best option for these things lol
Almost all of the good Wii u games can be played on the switch and if you break the gamepad Thay are $100 dollar to replace just saying you would seriously just be better off getting Wii for super easy to jailbreak and still pick one up for 40 bucks as well
It should be said that adding an SSD does nothing for load times nor does changing the adapter to sata. The bus speeds remain IDE speed. That said, use whatever drive you’ve got that’ll fit and is compatible.
I don't mind the regular load times for games. But will the SSD speed up the scrolling through OPL? I have a loaded 2 TB HDD that takes forever to search for games. Should I upgrade?
got it so no upgrade either way but im just losing out on the internet stuff I wasnt gonna use anyways. But its still an option because I do have the original one, just found the sata version for cheaper than doing the mod.
I modded a ps2 similar to this. As someone who loves retro gaming i took a lot of joy in learning to mod older consoles. It also helps that my major is computer science.
Great video! I still have a few PS2s left (1 fat and 2 slim I think) but I'll probably never mod them. I went through the trouble of tracking down a PS3 A01 a few years ago. I delidded it, applied new thermal paste and pads and added a +30% fan mod. The fan mod ended up being pointless since the custom firmware allows you to set custom fan curves. That system covers PSX, PS2 and PS3. I have a modded Vita 2000 for PSP and Vita games and a PS5 for PS4 and PS5 games.
Have you tried using GSM to force 480p on the games that are interlace only? It doesn't work with every game, but it does work with some and it can look really nice when it does. Using the "NTSC" option that GSM has also can disable the flicker filter/resolution changes that games not compatible with forced 480p mode may have. FXR smoothing also helps a lot to smooth the edges on the RetroGEM itself.
The HDR mode is there specifically for models that support BFI to get around the limitations of sample-and-hold displays compared to a CRT. Often this makes the image quite dark and you can get around this using HDR modes.
@@X2Brute sorry it probably wouldn't end well because they don't have a full screen option :/ a homebrewed Wii with an N64 emulator makes a good replacement tho :)
I've done the install a few times now. Using the RePS2 opens up the option to power the PS2 through USB-PD and it works great! Grab the 12v cable from adafruit, get a 12v usb pd charger like the ugreen ones, and now it's powered by USB-C. I've tested it for hours without issue with the Retro Gem. Hope that helps!
I've had the memory card sd card reader on my ps2 slim for about a year but the game compatibility is a bit of a bummer. Might have to set up my fat ps2 with a hdd
Makes me look forward to acquiring a PS2 soon just to do this simple mod to play all the great games I played once again. The PS2 was & still is a juggernaut console in 2024 to have in your collection as a gamer
From a hardware standpoint I would disagree. The PS2 was not that easy to develop for, especially compared to the PS1. From a features and game support standpoint it was GOAT.
Game developement is a much more costly process now. Better art/graphics mean more money. There is a greater risk if the game fails. We arent ever going back to the days of the Ps2 with its huge library.
Super cool all around... In terms of shell I'd totally get a 100% transparent one cuz I've always loved that look... I have a PS2 Fat that's softmodded for loading games only as well as I use component cables from HDRetroVision. It looks really good, but yeah having HDMI would make it easier to capture and stream from than using a RetroTink family linedoubler. Great video.
And i just picked up a used 30001 for $20. It boots games right up (no fussing like with an old worn out optical drives like to do). I do plan on getting an old network adapter and converting it to SATA as i do have a 2TB 2.5" SSD sitting around, and putting all my games onto the SSD to save what life the optical drive does have.
And i U use s retrotink aproach, you maintain the ahbility to plug into vrt if u want to or if u find a crt for light guns or just cvhange mind about getitng crt
Some items to note when someone doing this research: -[1]- 3rd party external power supplies have an extremely wide range of quality. So picking up something like the Triad Magnetics brand or Meanwell to pair with the poorly named RePS2 PSU (it's not a PSU in itself) is a good idea. Cheaping out here comes with risks *This is not a requirement an all PS2 models -[2]- The Noctua fan "upgrade" (not mentioned here but used here) is usually a 12v version. The creator of this only uses the 12v Noctua fans in the kits. The PS2 only puts out 7v to the fan. So the 12v fan is not spinning at the same RPM it is designed to. It would probably be better to use the 5v version with a resistor to drop the PS2's 7v down so the Noctua fan is operating at the voltage it was designed for
The point of those old consoles is to remind us of our childhood memories. While it would of been nice to have all of those features back in the day I don't need them to enjoy the PS2 now. But it is nice to see the PS2 still lives. 😎👍💯
I'm just about to resurrect my Slim. Just trying to figure out the HDMI thing. Looking at the Rad2x as I'm located in the UK now and it seems quite straightforward (but my Slim is NTSC since I lived in that region all my life until now). Didn't know about the 8Bitdo adapter, thanks. Was thinking of getting a PS4 controller to use with my Xperia phone, but being able to use it with PS2 is even better, as I'll get more use out of it.
rad2x is horrible. Get good quality component cables (either first party or HD Retrovision or decent third party ones) and a portta component to HDMI scaler. Really good quality for the amount of money you're paying which won't be much compared to other options.
Do you by chance have a video that goes through all the upgrades you did and how to do it? I have a PS2 Fat edition and want to get into this upgrading trend to enjoy my old games from childhood again and for my kids
scph 50000 is basically silent, fan also wouldn't look ugly like the noctua fan. I bought the fan and added it to my older console and it's basically whisper quiet. If you're gonna go the hdd route you can use exfat nowadays too makes it easier to copy games over
This thing is awesome! Congrats on the build! I feel like an epic custom shell would be really cool eventually. Hey have you tried building the ultimate Dreamcast?
I also just recently finished my PS2 build. Exchanged the IDE connector on my original PS2 Network Adapter so that I could use a 2 TB Samsung SSD which work flawlessly. Bought the 8BitDo retroreceiver as well and using a Dualsense PS5 controller. I have the PS2 connected to the MX8000 B&O tv via a Scart cable I bought from Retro Gaming Cable in the UK. Only thing I’m considering is exchanging the case but I think the OG black case looks great.
Literally just sent my ps2 out to get the upgrade done. I understand why everyone is upset about the shiny upgrade, 1080p should be the in the regular standard edition. If youre charging $125 for the part, and it requires labor of someone who is extremely skilled with soldering(I have my J-standard and I don’t even want to do it) it’s roughly $225-260. I had the 3900 series so I needed to mod my power supply, so I paid $300 total. So you’re paying $300 to get a modernized ps2 to have 720p. It’s upsetting but the positive I see with it is I can pay later on to get the shiny edition and I don’t have to worry about doing this whole process over for an upgrade.
I agree have a steam deck myself amazing resolutions but how accurate is the emulation? any tearing or glitching? I think that’s only thing with real hardware is 100% true.
Noctua fans are awesome! I used a bunch of them in upgrading my 3D printers and now they are almost silent. Also I upgraded the motherboards that contain the motor drivers and it is so quiet
One PS2 mod I've been thinking about is relocating the CMOS battery so that in 20 more years when it dies again I don't have to fully disassemble the system to change it.
all this stuff is so cool but as a general person most people wont have time or money to do all this compared to just emulation that gives you a better picture.
I remember having to sit on the floor in front of an older "big screen" playing Playstation, and the image from the TV would have a dark shade on certain parts from viewing up... oh the days of past 😅
Very nice modifications. Thank you. I will save this video to maybe take the same route one day. 😊 The only thing still bothering me is that OPL is still very incomplete game-compatibility-wise and complicated to set up. For gamecube and dreamcast, the available ODEs do a much more accurate job in my opinion. Anyways, very good video. Keep up your great work. 😊
@adamantium1983 actually it does, see below as it it copied from their compatibility list. Sony Playstation 2 Fat Models GH-019 (SCPH-3900X) *Requires RePS2 PSU or (SCPH-5000X PSU + SCPH-5000X Metal Shield). GH-022 (SCPH-3900X) *Requires RePS2 PSU or (SCPH-5000X PSU + SCPH-5000X Metal Shield). GH-023 (SCPH-5000X) GH-026 (SCPH-5000X)
I think I missed you mentioning something about the latency of changing resolution outputs on-the-fly. e.g. Gran Turismo 4 switching from 1080i from 480i when jumping into a race--plus on the PS1 side, the well-known issue of opening and closing the menu during gameplay in Chrono Cross etc.
With the adapter does the sensitive keystroke on R2 and L2 still work? (using PS4 controller) I bought recently the predecessor of this adapter and it doesn’t work for R2 & L2. My adapter is the blue retro and I haven’t updated the firmware yet
7:10 The Fat PS2 DOES NOT use a figure 8 power cable. Please do not use it. The figure 8 (C7) cord is a non-polarized cord and the PS2 requires a polarized (C7P) cord. I'm not sure if the PS2's PSU can handle polarity switching but I would not recommend trying. EDIT: This seem to only apply to North American models
That's the first time I have EVER heard that, though I looked at some pictures and you seem to be right I never knew this C7P connector ever existed However there's a catch and simply put not all Phat models have this limitation it's clear that some models have a standard C7 plug at the back Can't tell if the one in this video is either though.
@@CarbonPantheryeah, from a cursory research, it seem that only North American models ever used the C7P connector. From what I can tell, only the JPN and PAL models use the non-polarized C7 "Figure 8" connector.
@@christophervanzetta yeah and good PS3 controllers are frustrating to find...then they're sorta annoying to charge when you do manage yo get a halfway decent one. I'm probably gonna get a Retro Fighter ps2 controller
I've been trying to get mine working for a while. I'm not what's going on but I got it to boot FHDB from an SD, got a new laser installed, the laser kernal installed, and now I have a fuzzy picture, and black screen issues.
@spawn wave, I've been following your PS2 projects for some time. Amaizing. I also done the Gamecube full mods (except the HDMI. I use the Prism HDMI adapter). I hope to see mor eof the Original Xbox. Struggling with 1TB SSD upgrade without adding modchip. Thanks.
Correct me if I'm wrong but wouldn't having higher refresh rate OLED displays (like let's say 240Hz/360Hz) come somewhat close to the motion performance that CRT's offer?
I have a question... If a person were to mod up a ps2 like this.... Which "generation" would be best? I have 30001, 39001, and 50001/N. All in really great condition and clean clean. Just tossing the idea around. Do you have a list of parts and costs for everything done to this machine?
Are you using the i-link port or is there another reason you did not go the slim route with IDE resurrector to micro SD + Methylene (internal bluetooth mod) + Retro Gem? You can hide interlacing with a scanline generator. Also, I woul like to know how that 8bitdo reciver handles Ridge Racer V. Dose the analog work in that game? Also, can you get 5,1 over HDMI on DVD movies and games that support it?
I’m not asking you to do this cuz I know nothing exists… But My favourite handheld system is the 3DS, and I wish it would get all the nice stuff things the gba or the others gbs have. HDMI output for each screen, bluetooth adapters for audio and controllers, Replacement oled screens, new metallic shells, modded shells for even bigger screens and buttons, usb c ports for charging, better batteries, mods to make it into a home console without screens, etc, etc…
speaking of wired controllers being too short, I built a set of N64 controller extensions into my coffee table because I needed wired controllers for Pokemon Stadium Transfer Paks
Im in the middle of figuring out the video situation for mine. Tried the level hike and its ok but thought the MClassic would help smooth that out and it hasnt, component is also ok but my tv is way too big for that so now gonna try the kaico adapter which is component out in HDMI -> mClassic -> TV . once i have that working the way I want, Im gonna get the HDD situation sorted. Great work!
@spawnwave Can you try to find a Sony Bravia PS2 Built in TV would love that you could compare the image quality i have one of those but never seen it compared if MODS are better or worse than Sony's implementation
I have a phat soft modded ps2 with 2tb ssd with like 500 games on it. And I still run it old school hooked up to a nice little tube TV. It's an awesome setup I would recommend to anyone who loves ps2...
Wait, does the 8bitdo adapter support the pressure sensitive buttons? Do those work with a PS4 controller? Because I know for a fact that the new Retro Fighters PlayStation controller has pressure sensitive buttons. So unless the PS4 controller and the 8bitdo adapter support that functionality, then you will be missing out on a key feature when it comes to playing racing games and shooting games like Metal Gear Solid 2.
With the trouble you have to go through to install this I'm good. I got one of those cheap 12 dollar hdmi converter for my ps2 and it works just fine. I like that my ps2 fat is a complete unit. Don't need blocks and special cables or any of that.
This is a pretty cool looking mod but the issue that I'm having with it is if your ps2 had an issue and stops working for whatever reason. Like say the video is broken which is a tougher fix. Now you need to remove the very expensive mod and hopefully not ruin something in the process. I feel like for that price point you could pay a little more and get a retrotink.
I’m 43 and I still sit in the floor while playing Xbox series and ps5. I spent the first 20+ years of my life sitting in the floor so it’s weird for me to sit across the room on the couch
Gamepad is one of the more overlooked aspect that make a game feel old or obsolete. I buyed that same 8Bit adapter last month and it feel so much BETTER to use my DualShock 4 with PS2 games. Also that GEM looks like way to much trouble, isn't better to just use a line duplicater from the Component/RGB cable, seems like a same result but easier solution to me... In my case i have been thinking on get a old CRT, but i not sure.
I always wanted a backwards compatible ps3 to play my ps2 games on. How does a modified ps2 compare to one? Im sure the ps2 mods probably produce a better image, but how big of a gap is it?
Forgot to mention the footage at the end is from a range of settings and aspect ratios I tried until I settled on the 4:3 1080p settings. It was a fun project and worth it in the end for what I wanted out of it.
Do you do services in installing? I have pixelfx. I don't have the power adapter
You got it standing up, but you didn't twist the ps symbol on the disc drive??
Wipe the case down with Armour All.
what kind of input lag were you getting on that ps4 controller?
An important thing to note with the Retro GEM and part of the controversy with it is that the "shiny" upgrade can be purchased at any time even after the device has been installed. So the basic edition of the GEM theoretically has the capability of doing the shiny upgrade but the extra $70 needs to be paid to "unlock" the capability.
Some people may not use the functionality but it's annoying to know that the functionality is there just locked behind a paywall.
So its kind of just...$70 for a software update? thats kinda shitty :/
@@knightsurdaisn't that what DLC is? Everyone flocks to that. Even MK1 got people paying for fatalities which is just a movie you don't get to interact with
@@alexandersalazar9750 If ppl spend Money on a fatality animation, that's totally there fault. Noone really need this.
But having a System Update that makes things alot better and have to pay for it, is more like you have to spend money for a Patch, not for a dlc.
At the end it just let it look like, that ppl are forced to pay the 190$, because the basic thing is not the whole package. (and i think even 120$ for the basic is expensive)
Why are people so pissed at this? I love the option for a basic edition. I got it for the PS1 and saved all that money. I’d rather them offer that than pay extra money for stuff I don’t want/need. More options is never a bad thing. If you don’t like it, vote with your wallet.
@@mpowerness92 Simple Answer: It's easy possible to sell it for 120$ but goes the premium price way. It's not like they sell actuall better hardware, only locking what the thing already can, behind a paywall.
Amazing Job! This is an example that the PS2 is more alive than ever!
I just picked up a PS2, Xbox 360, and Wii with the intention of modding all 3 of them to some extent. Wii Homebrew is well established, and the PS2 and Xbox 360 have been getting a lot of love lately. 6th and 7th gen consoles/games were the best, in my opinion, so wanted a way to play any of those games when I want to. Would love to see you do something like this with the 360.
Get a wii u tho
Can play gamecube and wii games on it as well more bang for your buck
Waste of time and money for me. The only WiiU games that I care about have all been remastered into Switch games just like all the other WiiU games that were worth anything. Like I said in my original comment, The 6th and 7th Gen console games were my favorite, and I can play all of them on native hardware now. I don't care at all about having a WiiU, so it would be a waste for me. Plus the Wii and has one of if not the most fleshed out Homebrew scene out of any home console. I can even order pizza with it. Lolol
@@itranscendencei7964 lol Wii U modding scene is literally the same thing as the Wii modding the difference is playing Wii games on the Wii U is much much better because of the HDMI output plus there are tons of great Wii and Wii U games that are still not ported to modern platforms so its really handy to have a Wii U cuz its a bang for your buck
so its really not about the games you really cared about its about having the best option for these things lol
Almost all of the good Wii u games can be played on the switch and if you break the gamepad Thay are $100 dollar to replace just saying you would seriously just be better off getting Wii for super easy to jailbreak and still pick one up for 40 bucks as well
Agreed. That's why I got the Wii. :)
It should be said that adding an SSD does nothing for load times nor does changing the adapter to sata. The bus speeds remain IDE speed. That said, use whatever drive you’ve got that’ll fit and is compatible.
Should last longer though? less moving parts
I don't mind the regular load times for games. But will the SSD speed up the scrolling through OPL? I have a loaded 2 TB HDD that takes forever to search for games. Should I upgrade?
@@no5544true. Spinning platers don’t have the longevity of SSD’s so you’re essentially throwing money away
And quiet little spinning drive tells you if the imaginary big disc is spinning
got it so no upgrade either way but im just losing out on the internet stuff I wasnt gonna use anyways. But its still an option because I do have the original one, just found the sata version for cheaper than doing the mod.
the HDR is just to fight back the darkening effect that the scan lines cause, it's just to take advantage of the increase brightness HDR mode provides
I modded a ps2 similar to this. As someone who loves retro gaming i took a lot of joy in learning to mod older consoles. It also helps that my major is computer science.
Great video! I still have a few PS2s left (1 fat and 2 slim I think) but I'll probably never mod them. I went through the trouble of tracking down a PS3 A01 a few years ago. I delidded it, applied new thermal paste and pads and added a +30% fan mod. The fan mod ended up being pointless since the custom firmware allows you to set custom fan curves. That system covers PSX, PS2 and PS3. I have a modded Vita 2000 for PSP and Vita games and a PS5 for PS4 and PS5 games.
Every time I see the fat ps2 I’m overwhelmed with nostalgia.
Still to this day the greatest console of all time.
same
I will PAY REAL MONEY for a video showing how to do all this.
Have you tried using GSM to force 480p on the games that are interlace only? It doesn't work with every game, but it does work with some and it can look really nice when it does. Using the "NTSC" option that GSM has also can disable the flicker filter/resolution changes that games not compatible with forced 480p mode may have. FXR smoothing also helps a lot to smooth the edges on the RetroGEM itself.
The HDR mode is there specifically for models that support BFI to get around the limitations of sample-and-hold displays compared to a CRT. Often this makes the image quite dark and you can get around this using HDR modes.
You should do a series where you optimise modern systems for crt displays. 😁
I think that'd be really cool too!
Why would anyone want a CRT?
I wanna play Nintendo Switch Online N64 on my CRT!
@@X2Brute sorry it probably wouldn't end well because they don't have a full screen option :/ a homebrewed Wii with an N64 emulator makes a good replacement tho :)
I've done the install a few times now. Using the RePS2 opens up the option to power the PS2 through USB-PD and it works great! Grab the 12v cable from adafruit, get a 12v usb pd charger like the ugreen ones, and now it's powered by USB-C. I've tested it for hours without issue with the Retro Gem. Hope that helps!
I've had the memory card sd card reader on my ps2 slim for about a year but the game compatibility is a bit of a bummer. Might have to set up my fat ps2 with a hdd
Makes me look forward to acquiring a PS2 soon just to do this simple mod to play all the great games I played once again. The PS2 was & still is a juggernaut console in 2024 to have in your collection as a gamer
PS2 was Sony at their absolute best, I'd take it over a PS5 any day of the week.
From a hardware standpoint I would disagree. The PS2 was not that easy to develop for, especially compared to the PS1. From a features and game support standpoint it was GOAT.
No reason my PS5 doesn't run PS2 discs it's gross
They had a better quantity of first party output then, but the games from today are still just as good quality wise.
Game developement is a much more costly process now. Better art/graphics mean more money. There is a greater risk if the game fails. We arent ever going back to the days of the Ps2 with its huge library.
@@alexanderjones3830it was harder to develop for but it was extremely powerful if they used all the power
Super cool all around... In terms of shell I'd totally get a 100% transparent one cuz I've always loved that look... I have a PS2 Fat that's softmodded for loading games only as well as I use component cables from HDRetroVision. It looks really good, but yeah having HDMI would make it easier to capture and stream from than using a RetroTink family linedoubler. Great video.
And i just picked up a used 30001 for $20. It boots games right up (no fussing like with an old worn out optical drives like to do). I do plan on getting an old network adapter and converting it to SATA as i do have a 2TB 2.5" SSD sitting around, and putting all my games onto the SSD to save what life the optical drive does have.
And i U use s retrotink aproach, you maintain the ahbility to plug into vrt if u want to or if u find a crt for light guns or just cvhange mind about getitng crt
In a lot of ways, classic gaming is the future. when I think about my gaming lately, I find that I lean more toward older gen gaming.
You should be using a DualShock 3 for the pressure sensitive buttons.
He is using the DS4, which is better
@@jvinsnes DS4 doesn't have analog buttons tho. So for example you wouldn't be able to control throttle in gran turismo
I can learn how to build my own ultimate PS2.
Some items to note when someone doing this research:
-[1]- 3rd party external power supplies have an extremely wide range of quality. So picking up something like the Triad Magnetics brand or Meanwell to pair with the poorly named RePS2 PSU (it's not a PSU in itself) is a good idea. Cheaping out here comes with risks *This is not a requirement an all PS2 models
-[2]- The Noctua fan "upgrade" (not mentioned here but used here) is usually a 12v version. The creator of this only uses the 12v Noctua fans in the kits. The PS2 only puts out 7v to the fan. So the 12v fan is not spinning at the same RPM it is designed to. It would probably be better to use the 5v version with a resistor to drop the PS2's 7v down so the Noctua fan is operating at the voltage it was designed for
You can also still play online. Socom II will never die. Gran Turismo 4 (online beta) and Killzone are pretty active too
Hey Jon, how come you don't post links to the products you used for this mod?
Love these type of videos!!!
The point of those old consoles is to remind us of our childhood memories. While it would of been nice to have all of those features back in the day I don't need them to enjoy the PS2 now. But it is nice to see the PS2 still lives. 😎👍💯
Based purist, respect.
I'm just about to resurrect my Slim. Just trying to figure out the HDMI thing. Looking at the Rad2x as I'm located in the UK now and it seems quite straightforward (but my Slim is NTSC since I lived in that region all my life until now).
Didn't know about the 8Bitdo adapter, thanks. Was thinking of getting a PS4 controller to use with my Xperia phone, but being able to use it with PS2 is even better, as I'll get more use out of it.
rad2x is horrible. Get good quality component cables (either first party or HD Retrovision or decent third party ones) and a portta component to HDMI scaler. Really good quality for the amount of money you're paying which won't be much compared to other options.
Do you by chance have a video that goes through all the upgrades you did and how to do it? I have a PS2 Fat edition and want to get into this upgrading trend to enjoy my old games from childhood again and for my kids
7:02 People keep talking about the PS2 slim's external adapter but the 9000 series has it internally, it's a brilliant design
This 👆
I’m the only one who likes that it’s external. Keeps the system cool imo
scph 50000 is basically silent, fan also wouldn't look ugly like the noctua fan. I bought the fan and added it to my older console and it's basically whisper quiet. If you're gonna go the hdd route you can use exfat nowadays too makes it easier to copy games over
This thing is awesome! Congrats on the build! I feel like an epic custom shell would be really cool eventually. Hey have you tried building the ultimate Dreamcast?
Recommend the GBS-Control or Gbsc if you cant solder or find a modder. Easy set up @1080p with the Ps2.
Great and classic idea renewing the ps2, It looked good, Thank you
I also just recently finished my PS2 build. Exchanged the IDE connector on my original PS2 Network Adapter so that I could use a 2 TB Samsung SSD which work flawlessly. Bought the 8BitDo retroreceiver as well and using a Dualsense PS5 controller. I have the PS2 connected to the MX8000 B&O tv via a Scart cable I bought from Retro Gaming Cable in the UK. Only thing I’m considering is exchanging the case but I think the OG black case looks great.
Literally just sent my ps2 out to get the upgrade done. I understand why everyone is upset about the shiny upgrade, 1080p should be the in the regular standard edition. If youre charging $125 for the part, and it requires labor of someone who is extremely skilled with soldering(I have my J-standard and I don’t even want to do it) it’s roughly $225-260. I had the 3900 series so I needed to mod my power supply, so I paid $300 total. So you’re paying $300 to get a modernized ps2 to have 720p. It’s upsetting but the positive I see with it is I can pay later on to get the shiny edition and I don’t have to worry about doing this whole process over for an upgrade.
Who did the work?
Why don't you use something like T-cut or some othe kind of scratch remover to buff out those scratches to the case.
Very cool project , but hard to justify when I have a steam deck that emulates ps2 games at 3x resolution and works flawlessly even on a tv !!
This. 😎👍
Even my Galaxy S23 Ultra offers a better experience for PS2 emulation vs the native PS2 hardware.
I agree have a steam deck myself amazing resolutions but how accurate is the emulation? any tearing or glitching? I think that’s only thing with real hardware is 100% true.
The SSD also runs cooler, so it's just better in general. That's the beauty of SATA SSDs.
The cord not reaching the couch is partly why I still now play 5 feet from the screen in a chair
easily one of the strongest hardware for its time 🎉 pure nostalgia
Retroitink 5x pro or higher is the best for PS2 if u got the cash.
Quality, easy to watch video. I am also thinking about modding a PS2.
were you playing the arcade version of tekken 5? noticed that insert coin in the gameplay.
Noctua fans are awesome! I used a bunch of them in upgrading my 3D printers and now they are almost silent. Also I upgraded the motherboards that contain the motor drivers and it is so quiet
One PS2 mod I've been thinking about is relocating the CMOS battery so that in 20 more years when it dies again I don't have to fully disassemble the system to change it.
all this stuff is so cool but as a general person most people wont have time or money to do all this compared to just emulation that gives you a better picture.
I loved the Logitech wireless PS2 controller. Had one for the Xbox, too.
I remember having to sit on the floor in front of an older "big screen" playing Playstation, and the image from the TV would have a dark shade on certain parts from viewing up... oh the days of past 😅
Can you tell us more about your Hexagon shaped lights behind you ? Do they plug togheter ot are they all indepnednant ?
Very nice modifications. Thank you. I will save this video to maybe take the same route one day. 😊 The only thing still bothering me is that OPL is still very incomplete game-compatibility-wise and complicated to set up. For gamecube and dreamcast, the available ODEs do a much more accurate job in my opinion. Anyways, very good video. Keep up your great work. 😊
This is my dream version of the PS2. I'm really looking forward to be able to afford it. :)
Does the 8bitdo adapter take analog trigger inputs and translate them into pressure sensitive? Can't imagine playing GT4 without them.
Have you messed around with emulating ps2 on the xbox series systems? It's been amazing so far, but modding a ps2 sounds fun.
I've looked into it a bit myself. Interesting stuff for sure. Definitely an option I've considered.
@@ModeSOLOgaming it's definitely worth it! Ive been having a blast with it
In order to maintain the internal power supply and still be able to install a retrogem, a SCPH-5000X PSU is required.
So if I upgraded the power supply I could install the Retrogem on my 30001?
@@adamantium1983 according to the official install instructions, yes
Thank you. Their site didn’t state that
@adamantium1983 actually it does, see below as it it copied from their compatibility list.
Sony Playstation 2
Fat Models
GH-019 (SCPH-3900X) *Requires RePS2 PSU or (SCPH-5000X PSU + SCPH-5000X Metal Shield).
GH-022 (SCPH-3900X) *Requires RePS2 PSU or (SCPH-5000X PSU + SCPH-5000X Metal Shield).
GH-023 (SCPH-5000X)
GH-026 (SCPH-5000X)
I don’t have a 3900x I have a 3000x. I did get into their discord Q&A and it is something they are working on.
I think I missed you mentioning something about the latency of changing resolution outputs on-the-fly. e.g. Gran Turismo 4 switching from 1080i from 480i when jumping into a race--plus on the PS1 side, the well-known issue of opening and closing the menu during gameplay in Chrono Cross etc.
With the adapter does the sensitive keystroke on R2 and L2 still work? (using PS4 controller)
I bought recently the predecessor of this adapter and it doesn’t work for R2 & L2.
My adapter is the blue retro and I haven’t updated the firmware yet
😎 Tech Wave 🌊
haven't seen a PS2 in years
You fuckin blind bro?
7:10 The Fat PS2 DOES NOT use a figure 8 power cable. Please do not use it. The figure 8 (C7) cord is a non-polarized cord and the PS2 requires a polarized (C7P) cord.
I'm not sure if the PS2's PSU can handle polarity switching but I would not recommend trying.
EDIT: This seem to only apply to North American models
That's the first time I have EVER heard that, though I looked at some pictures and you seem to be right I never knew this C7P connector ever existed
However there's a catch and simply put not all Phat models have this limitation it's clear that some models have a standard C7 plug at the back
Can't tell if the one in this video is either though.
@@CarbonPantheryeah, from a cursory research, it seem that only North American models ever used the C7P connector.
From what I can tell, only the JPN and PAL models use the non-polarized C7 "Figure 8" connector.
The ps4 controller doesn't have pressure sensitive buttons though does it?
No it doesn’t.
@@christophervanzetta yeah and good PS3 controllers are frustrating to find...then they're sorta annoying to charge when you do manage yo get a halfway decent one. I'm probably gonna get a Retro Fighter ps2 controller
Hey man, cool video and I love your PS2 mods, if you like Diablo style games, give Champions of Norrath a try! Amazing PS2 game!
My pastor was just talking about being a kid and wanting a PlayStation for Christmas. That made me think of how bad I want a PS2 again.
My only concern is the need soldering chip legs. I have nerve trembling problems and always end up bridging the chip legs. 😢
If I do decide too get my ps2 moded wit the shiny edition will the HDMI get me audio from my monitor ? It has build in speaker ..
These mods are really freaking cool, but I'm just going to save up for that retrotink thing lol
Amazing work for a ps2 realy good image output.👌
I've been trying to get mine working for a while. I'm not what's going on but I got it to boot FHDB from an SD, got a new laser installed, the laser kernal installed, and now I have a fuzzy picture, and black screen issues.
Is there any way to get a system with every PS2 game on it? Any modified system? I have all systems up to ps1
I made a white one of these, the disk drive keeps breaking and it's hard to find white disc drives
I am so glad that they finally came out with the ps2 Bluetooth adapter.
@spawn wave, I've been following your PS2 projects for some time. Amaizing. I also done the Gamecube full mods (except the HDMI. I use the Prism HDMI adapter). I hope to see mor eof the Original Xbox. Struggling with 1TB SSD upgrade without adding modchip. Thanks.
no matter how much scaling you do, nothing beats ps2 + crt (pvm or consumer tv)
Correct me if I'm wrong but wouldn't having higher refresh rate OLED displays (like let's say 240Hz/360Hz) come somewhat close to the motion performance that CRT's offer?
My all time favorite system, but man, do you sleep?😅
I just recently bought that 8bit duo & it's awesome
Left my ps2 on for over a week playing Jak and Daxter cause my mom was too cheap to buy me a memory card 🤣
i would love to update my PS2 fat and DC to HDMI. I just am not any good at soldering.
What I've been wanting most is a USB C-PD mod for the PS2 FAT but theres not really any way to do it without step up/step down or a middleman board
I have a question... If a person were to mod up a ps2 like this.... Which "generation" would be best? I have 30001, 39001, and 50001/N. All in really great condition and clean clean. Just tossing the idea around. Do you have a list of parts and costs for everything done to this machine?
Over heard 39001 to 50001 are best. I have a 30001 myself
Are you using the i-link port or is there another reason you did not go the slim route with IDE resurrector to micro SD + Methylene (internal bluetooth mod) + Retro Gem? You can hide interlacing with a scanline generator. Also, I woul like to know how that 8bitdo reciver handles Ridge Racer V. Dose the analog work in that game? Also, can you get 5,1 over HDMI on DVD movies and games that support it?
The nerd in me loves this kind of stuff. But in reality, I would have trouble actually doing any of these mods.
I’m not asking you to do this cuz I know nothing exists… But My favourite handheld system is the 3DS, and I wish it would get all the nice stuff things the gba or the others gbs have. HDMI output for each screen, bluetooth adapters for audio and controllers, Replacement oled screens, new metallic shells, modded shells for even bigger screens and buttons, usb c ports for charging, better batteries, mods to make it into a home console without screens, etc, etc…
I saw another video and there's an app you can run that forces progressive scan for all games except a few
speaking of wired controllers being too short, I built a set of N64 controller extensions into my coffee table because I needed wired controllers for Pokemon Stadium Transfer Paks
8bitDo has a Bluetooth adapter that just fits into the memory card slot. Works for ps1 & 2
When 8MB is your whole childhood
Im in the middle of figuring out the video situation for mine. Tried the level hike and its ok but thought the MClassic would help smooth that out and it hasnt, component is also ok but my tv is way too big for that so now gonna try the kaico adapter which is component out in HDMI -> mClassic -> TV . once i have that working the way I want, Im gonna get the HDD situation sorted.
Great work!
9:08 Logitech made some of the best wireless controllers ever made(Not the batatarang looking one 😂 )imo for the PS2 and OG Xbox. If u know u know.
I would love to have my PS2 Fat modded with the HDMI mod but I have a 30001. I don’t see support for it. 😢
@spawnwave Can you try to find a Sony Bravia PS2 Built in TV would love that you could compare the image quality i have one of those but never seen it compared if MODS are better or worse than Sony's implementation
I have a phat soft modded ps2 with 2tb ssd with like 500 games on it. And I still run it old school hooked up to a nice little tube TV. It's an awesome setup I would recommend to anyone who loves ps2...
What would be your recommendation for an OLED TV at a decent price.
Wait, does the 8bitdo adapter support the pressure sensitive buttons? Do those work with a PS4 controller? Because I know for a fact that the new Retro Fighters PlayStation controller has pressure sensitive buttons. So unless the PS4 controller and the 8bitdo adapter support that functionality, then you will be missing out on a key feature when it comes to playing racing games and shooting games like Metal Gear Solid 2.
With the trouble you have to go through to install this I'm good. I got one of those cheap 12 dollar hdmi converter for my ps2 and it works just fine. I like that my ps2 fat is a complete unit. Don't need blocks and special cables or any of that.
This is a pretty cool looking mod but the issue that I'm having with it is if your ps2 had an issue and stops working for whatever reason. Like say the video is broken which is a tougher fix. Now you need to remove the very expensive mod and hopefully not ruin something in the process. I feel like for that price point you could pay a little more and get a retrotink.
Spawnwave which part i can get a ghost shell to buy for the ps2 fat
I remember sitting on the floor with multitaps playing 6 player wrestling
I’m 43 and I still sit in the floor while playing Xbox series and ps5. I spent the first 20+ years of my life sitting in the floor so it’s weird for me to sit across the room on the couch
Gamepad is one of the more overlooked aspect that make a game feel old or obsolete. I buyed that same 8Bit adapter last month and it feel so much BETTER to use my DualShock 4 with PS2 games.
Also that GEM looks like way to much trouble, isn't better to just use a line duplicater from the Component/RGB cable, seems like a same result but easier solution to me... In my case i have been thinking on get a old CRT, but i not sure.
I always wanted a backwards compatible ps3 to play my ps2 games on. How does a modified ps2 compare to one? Im sure the ps2 mods probably produce a better image, but how big of a gap is it?