The OG had the headphone jack and you could even control the volume from the system. That was revolutionary to me. Because these games definitely sound better with headphones.
I own all four versions and they’re my pride and joy. I grew up with the model 2, but remember playing my older cousin’s model 1 HD graphics one. Recently got a model 3 and have been using it as my “daily driver” due to its small size and my computer desk has limited space.
I use the SEGA Genesis CDX. I originally bought the original Model 1 in 1990 - but upgraded near the end of the lifecycle because I got a good price on the CDX.
@@scpnoobers Honestly, the CDX is an absolute gremlin anyway. The CD drive is notoriously bad. I got mine about 10 years after it was on the market and the laser was already dying. It isn't even that much older than the original PlayStation. It half works at least, I guess. It was $100; even then I'd argue it isn't worth much more than being a possibly half-functional novelty.
@@ZonicMirageI have a original model 1 Genesis and model 2 sega cd and a cdx. For a long time I used the first mentioned combo but recently Ive been using the cdx/32x combo because the cd player in the model 2 wouldn't play a reproduction game I have whereas the cdx would. Other than that yes the original Genesis sound chip does sound better than the one in the cdx. Kinda a tradeoff I guess.
I had the Genesis 2, it’s the one I think of when I think of Genesis, and it’s also the nicest looking. From the Genesis 2 on Sega made some really nice looking consoles.
I'm an outlier I think because I think the Majesco Model 3 is the nicest looking aesthetically. Model 1 looks like a piece of Hi-Fi equipment, which is cool and makes sense for the time, the Model 3 looks like a video game system & the Model 2 just seems a bit lost in between to me.
@@agamelegend9441 Model 1 is the most high tech looking for sure. It's a close second to the Model 3 for me just because it 100% looks like something you would see on a Hi Fi rack of the time and be impressed by. Especially compared to the NES it looks like a serious piece of technology as opposed to a toy. I have just always liked the rounded edges and curves of the Model 3, it's simple & kind of fits more with the styling of the Saturn.
The one thing the Genesis 3 brings to the table is ready-made compatibility with mega drive carts. They fit without modification, and the few I have play fine.
yeah this is exactly what I commented in the top. Thanks for clarifying. There was also a cartridge to hack permanently the console which I believe was necessary
Let me clear up the info here for all you looking for a certain revision. The earliest Genesis Model 1 without the TMSS will be the VA0 - VA5, Some revisions are exclusive to other Regions. VA0 - VA2 has a preamp bug which causes sound distortion with loud games, will need to replace resistors. Two 10K ohm and one (preferably) 20k ohm 1206 SMD resistors. VA3 fixes that issue. VA6 HDG will have TMSS. The Late VA-6 revision Omits the EXT port, But the rest aren't moved and Thus still have great audio. if the Ports are shoved close to the center, RF port where the EXT port used to be, then you have the VA7 aka "The Stinker". Sega was trying to go ASIC with the audio, Hence Integrated YM3438 instead of the Discrete YM2612. But the audio Circuitry is at very poor quality due to the SMD capacitors and op-amp chips they used. This followed into the Model 2 all the way from VA0 to VA1.8. VA2 and VA2.3 are the only revisions with a Discrete YM2612 and are rare to come by, You may think thats Good, Right? Well... No. YM2612 is Loud and the PSG is very unbalanced. Unfortunately there isn't any information on how to fix that besides a Mega Amp or Triple Bypass mod. VA3 is a very much improved Revision of the Model 2 and is considered the Best Model 2 with Clear Audio and no distortion. VA4 is a 1 chip system and the quality is about the same, but suffers from louder PSG. Now the Model 3s, the Z80 is built into the ASIC Chip like the Model 2 VA4. There would be no sense in the Z80 being scrapped, It's needed for the sound. Also Model 3 Genny is missing specific connections from the GOAC to the cartridge slot which prevents compatibility with the 32X, Power Base Converter, Virtua Racing and Game Genie. That can be fixed with some modifications. Unfortunately VA2 Model 3 revision is only limited to Virtua Racing and Game genie after the mod. I hope that clears things up for everyone.
I want to add that MD2 VA2.3 has an error in the VDP that breaks the raster effect feature used in certain games. The final boss arena in S3&K Knuckles' story has a broken background, for example. No way to fix it, so you may as well try hunting down a VA2 or 3. Additionally, video encoders are a mixed bag for composite output throughout the MD2's run. Samsung, Sony and Fujitsu chips were used without any consistency. All of them have issues; Samsung encoders suffer from black banding, for example. Thankfully it doesn't matter if you tap the RGB signal, though.
@@ZonicMirage Thanks for the added info. I do have that revision with the broken ASIC as well. Not all do have that Faulty ASIC chip, but I guess the majority of that particular revision does. I also figured out that one resistor "R31" should be removed and bridged to bring up the PSG gain in both VA2 and VA2.3s.
@@TheHulkingMenace I have a messed up VA2.3 as well. Yeah, there's a sub-revision with a fixed ASIC, but they're super rare. May as well hunt for a 2 or 3.
@@dad7275 I don't personally own a CDX, but by hearing comparisons, I can say the quality is pretty average by best. Much better than model 2s with bad audio.
Thanks so much for making this! So few people, even within the Genesis enthusiast community, know the differences. So many are passionate about their model 2’s but the sound quality is worse. When I got my model 1 original version (without the licensed by Sega screen), and I play SOR2, the sound blows me away
So the tell tale sign of whether or not it has better audio is actually the location of the AC adapter port. If it's all the way in the bottom right, then your board has the better sound, regardless of the "High Definition" label. The system I have is one such example, no label but improved sound. It's night and day compared to the model 2. Thought I'd share incase any one was looking to snag one of these nowadays.
This may be a random TH-cam Comment request but is there any way I could see what your picture looks like? I recently grabbed a trinitron 32 and I'm not sure if the picture is right. Can't seem to find any help
There are actually two releases of the Genesis Model 2 with different sound boards. You can tell which is which by looking at the bottom vent of the system. If the metal plate covering the board does not extend the full length of the vent, you have the better model.
I’ve had just about every Genesis model over the years except the CDX…I remember seeing the Model 1 Genesis when I a kid and I grew up playing the Genesis 2 years later… I even bought the Genesis 3 when it came out when I was in middle school… All good consoles in my opinion, but the one I still have to this day is the HDG Genesis, it’s 30 years old and plays like a champ… I love that ole thing…and yes…I still play Sonic 2 on it as well XD
I just bought a model 1 High Definition Graphics version with the port; I didn't know the difference. And I do have a Sony Trinitron 32" CRT TV that my neighbor gave me. It still works, and I just put it in the back room collecting dust. Now the TV has a purpose.
i bought a model 2 with a few games on eBay to begin my collection but after a couple days of research, i realized I wanted a Model 1 and lucky enough i found a Hi Def original model 1 for $40 and Sonic 👍 both are really cool though. Model 1 stays home, model 2 or 3 for when you travel
If anybody is looking to grab a sega genesis now days you guys should go for these consoles in this order with the first one giving you the best picture and sound. 1- JVC X'eye Sega genesis/Sega CD combo 2- Model 2 VA4 3- Model 1 High Definition Graphics with the serial port. Nothing wrong with any of these consoles but these are the best of the best. There's also one out there called "Mega Sg" made by Analogue, unfortunately it is only hdmi so it is only meant to be connected to the new type of tv/monitors no CRTs or PVMs..but the system does offer a lot of goodies!
I looked at the Mega SG page. It says that it uses a FPGA chip and is highly compatible and has no input lag. Personally, I have the atGames SEGA Genesis model 2. The nice thing with this one is that it has a SD card slot. I copied a bunch of ROM files to a SD card, stick it in there and boot up the atGames. It can't run 32X games. It is HDMI output only. The sound is good. There is input lag of 0.5 s and 1 s sound lag in general. Also, you can save up to 5 game states, even for the games on the SD card. You can even rewind a game for up to 7 seconds.
@@louistournas120 Nothing wrong with FPGAs and to be honest I believe it is the new way to emulate older consoles, you should do some research about the Mister FPGA!!! It is very promising! It simulates the real hardware with close to none lag, bluetooth, RGB and hdmi, so much stuff avaliable. I'm in the process of biulding one!
@@culturax2285 I think that FPGA is the superior solution but they really should have a SD card slot so that we could put hundreds of ROM files on it. Because buying the hundreds of original SEGA cartridges is impossible and I don't think that SEGA will manufacture them anytime soon. It also uses up a lot of plastic and a lot of room. Nintendo and SEGA released a retro system a few years back (mini-NES, mini-SNES, mini-Genesis) but again, no SD card slot.
Awesome video! I recently came across all 4 and I always wondered if there was a difference. This def helped me come to a descion on which to keep! Love it
I have the Sega Genesis Model 2, that I've recently brought from my grandmother's house. I had it almost 20 years, since 2003. I will play games like Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Sonic the Hedgehog 3, and other games, and accessories, like the standard controller, and the Sega Genesis Arcade Power Stick, real soon.
Actually, the real names for these two Model 1 consoles are "Early Model 1" (with "High Definition Graphics") and "Later Model 1" (without the "High Definition Graphics") ... Model 2 is the redesigned model from 1993...
Would you say the later model 1 is still worth getting? I found a very nice refurbished one that has been completely gone thru, but I wonder if I shouldn't hold out for an early model 1. I guess just wondering if the audio is that much of a noticeable difference.
No pain , no gain Only by risking money on certain paths makes peoples more richer in knowledge, and if the end results dose not please you in the end well then you gain experience based on the waste of money
I should say something here, you're half wrong on the model 1 parts...the slightly later ones without the EXT port "the traces to the EXT Port are still in tact" it's similar to the High Definition graphics models, only differences is some of the very early ones don't say "Licensed by SEGA" whenever you start a game, the ones you really need to watch out are the late model 1's that came out in 1992-93, they don't say High Definition Graphics and the ports on the back are shifted to the left and the blank spot is on the far right. Everything else you mentioned is correct.
Outside of the lack of "Licensed by Sega" screen, the earlier versions of the Model 1 lacked a lockout chip thus it was possible to play games from different regions by modifying the plastic casing used for the ROM cartridges.
@@ggn3 Oh, I see. So they designed the plastic such that it doesn't fit into the console. I suppose one could remove the plastic and just insert the PCB of the game.
@@ggn3 Sega then implemented software lockout around the launch of the model 2. Since it's tied to a system's region configuration, you'd need a mod to get around that. I couldn't run my US copy of Streets of Rage 2 on my early-run JP Mega Drive without one. You can use a an adapter or Game Genie to bypass the cartridge shapes.
Hey pixelslayers, i was wondering, do all 4 of them play the same games? Like if i buy a sega game could i play it in all 4 models? Or do they all take different version games?
3:28 i have this revision of the model 1, and the audio is as good as a hdg sega genesis, just letting u guys know there are still non-hdg models with great sound, and from what i heard there are some hdg sega genesis models with horrible sound. what i have is a model 1 va6.5, its basically just a sega genesis va6 (hdg) but without the EXT port, probably making this revision the most ideal genesis in my opinion (disregarding the hdg slogan being gone)
Yep, this guy doesn't have the "bad" one. The bad one is the one with no serial port, and no blank spot - this has the blank spot. The bad one has the ports moved over and doesn't really have that empty area.
There aren't 4 models. There are 3 models - Genesis "1", Genesis "2" and Genesis 3, and within each of those models there are sub-models, with different "VA" revisions of motherboard.
@@thepthepthep Even without research, that plug is clearly NOT 3.5 inches. 3.5mm / 1/8" stereo, and you would never want to use one wired up for yellow as well, as those TRRS connectors won't likely line up correctly inside the jack. In what world is a camera cable like that more common than a simple 1/8" to R/W?
That's still a model 1, it's called The Stinker because of the cheaper audio chip. It's the version paired with Sonic 1, needed lots produced because of Sonics popularity popularity.
That second model 1 you have there with no EXT port is actually a VA6.5 with exactly the same audio as the best of the ones with “High Definition Graphics” ring text. The VA2 launch revision actually have bad stereo sound because there is too much gain on the preamp causing loud sounds to clip after the headphone amp. The second one you have is objectively superior. The reason you think the second one is inferior is because it looks like a VA7 but there are some key differences. First, the power jack is in the corner just like your High Definition Graphics model. That is because the board inside is still a VA5/6 board with an empty EXT port footprint which, combined with the shielding and RF modulator, displaces the power jack off the board (connected with wires). Meanwhile, Japanese consoles never had shielding or RF so the jack was always mounted to the board. VA7 finally gets rid of the EXT footprint making room to move everything onto the board. VA7 Japanese is a bit harder to tell. Luckily, you can see the board through the vents to tell (VA7 has no components on the bottom). If you look into the cartridge slot of a VA7 you will see SMD resistors, capacitors, and empty footprints for them. You will not see that on earlier Model 1 consoles. So if you can’t tell by listening the tell is by looking in the cart slot or looking at where the power jack is located.
I think my favorite is still the model 2. It's smaller, and has the most compatibility with add-ons and what not with the fewest compromises. It also looks the best. Think the model 1 had better sound though.
Master good morning, I have a Japanese mega drive that has two slots for cartridge 😳, one in the normal place and one right in front lying forward and hidden under the housing, I can't find any other like it, have you come across this model? On the board it is defined like this MD - 1095 G -1.5 ARG02
Since I use a converter av2hdmi (yes, I know, crap converter), does it matter which version of Model 1 I get? HDG vs non-HDG Model 1. Since I'll be doing some converting in order to play on my modern display monitor, which uses HDMI, I think quality will be lost either way, so both versions of it will basically still be crap. Am I right to assume this?
At the time when I was shopping for Genesis I did not know about the sound issues. I actually had a lot of options but I end up going with the model 2 which was the cheapest at the time I was shopping last year
Its not like that at all with PAL mega drives. The 2 variants of the Model 1 have the same audio quality and if anything the one without the ext port on the back produce a significantly better picture.
The Genesis model 1 version 1, the one with the high definition graphics is actually a Japanese mega drive motherboard inside and can play all imported Sega mega drive cartridges.
Not true, the cartridge slot doesn't fit JP cartridges without physical modding and region locked Japanese games will not work with a converter or modding.
My first generation NA genesis is able to play jp cartridges that I used to rent from microplay back in the days, true that the JP cartridges won't fit in the NA genesis, but microplay trimmed the edges of the JP cartridges so it would fit in to the NA genesis
As a big SEGA fan, I’ve always wondered why SEGA released so many versions of the Genesis, especially since there’s minimal difference in image quality between them. It seems to me that SEGA could have focused on creating a single Genesis model and improving its sound quality instead. In contrast, the SNES only had European/Japanese and American versions, all of which apparently had consistent image quality. I’m not a fan of the fact that SEGA created 3 different Genesis versions with only slight variations in image quality.
I recently purchase a new sega genesis model 2 with 6 buttoms controllers. Witch board do you think is? VA-0 or VA-1? came with the original film, I dont want to open it lol
5:56 That doesn't sound right. The z80 is responsible for controlling both sound processors in the system (the YM2612 and the SN76489 integrated into the vdp). If they were to remove that, then every single Genesis game would be made incompatible.
Depends on the sound driver used in each game. Some use only Motorola 68000 for everything. Sonic 1 uses SMPS (Sample Music Playback System) 68k version, only PCM samples are using Z80, later games switched entirely to Z80 based drivers. Genesis 3 is actually mostly emulated and extremely cheaply made.
I also noticed they said that the supposed lack of a Z80 is why the 32X and Virtua Racing aren't compatible, which is completely untrue. The actual reason is because the cartridge port isn't properly wired to support them; the early VA1 revision can be modded for 32X compatibility and both Genesis 3 revisions can be easily modded for Virtua Racing compatibility.
@@PilaCiu There's no emulation involved with the Genesis 3, it uses an ASIC which includes the cores for all of the major chips (68K, Z80, VDP, YM3438, I/O, etc).
I dunno, I have the second, "cheaper" model 1, and it sounds pretty darn crisp and clear to me, especially compared with my model 2. I'd consider purchasing an original "High Definition Graphics" model 1 to compare, but I dunno if it'd be worth it. As is, I'm pretty darn satisfied.
The information here wasn't quite right. There are a spectrum of releases within each body or shell, so to speak. Most of the model 1 bodies with or without the High Definition Graphics logo should sound the same. The one he showed won't sound any different from the one next to it, and you can tell because there's that extra space where a port could be notched out where the EXT/DB9 port WOULD have gone, if it was the HDG model. If you see one with no HDG and a back flat area that ends immediately after the CH3/4 toggle, then you're in degraded audio territory. The reason people go for the HDG models so passionately is the guarantee that it won't be the bad audio model and because it is the only model with the potential be non-TMSS (if it's old enough, it won't open with the security/licensing screen and will have enhanced compatibility with some very early Japanese games, or unlicensed games, but in general it will never matter).
Yeah that's what I was gonna say, the two Mega Drive ones in this video are the same. You can tell because the power input barrel is in the same place 😂 The inferior sounding ones had the power input barrel closer to the middle of the console away from the right corner. It's funny cuz the guy doesn't even know, despite having both good ones 😂🤦
Was anyone else confused on mode one vs model 2? I mean it says High Definition on Mode one but I could’ve swore you said many times Model 2 was better.... then went back and said Mode one was the best. Idk... I was confused.
The OG had the headphone jack and you could even control the volume from the system. That was revolutionary to me. Because these games definitely sound better with headphones.
I own all four versions and they’re my pride and joy. I grew up with the model 2, but remember playing my older cousin’s model 1 HD graphics one. Recently got a model 3 and have been using it as my “daily driver” due to its small size and my computer desk has limited space.
The graphics aren't any different on any of them though right?
@@liamconverse8950 I personally can’t tell a difference between them.
@@Mina_Bennington Yeah I guess they felt it uneccessary to print "high definition graphics" on the later models
@@liamconverse8950makes sense
I use the SEGA Genesis CDX.
I originally bought the original Model 1 in 1990 - but upgraded near the end of the lifecycle because I got a good price on the CDX.
I’ve been looking a cdx at a good price but I’d probably have more luck winning the lottery lol
@@scpnoobers Honestly, the CDX is an absolute gremlin anyway.
The CD drive is notoriously bad. I got mine about 10 years after it was on the market and the laser was already dying. It isn't even that much older than the original PlayStation. It half works at least, I guess.
It was $100; even then I'd argue it isn't worth much more than being a possibly half-functional novelty.
@@ZonicMirageI have a original model 1 Genesis and model 2 sega cd and a cdx. For a long time I used the first mentioned combo but recently Ive been using the cdx/32x combo because the cd player in the model 2 wouldn't play a reproduction game I have whereas the cdx would. Other than that yes the original Genesis sound chip does sound better than the one in the cdx. Kinda a tradeoff I guess.
I had the Genesis 2, it’s the one I think of when I think of Genesis, and it’s also the nicest looking. From the Genesis 2 on Sega made some really nice looking consoles.
So did I lol
I'm an outlier I think because I think the Majesco Model 3 is the nicest looking aesthetically. Model 1 looks like a piece of Hi-Fi equipment, which is cool and makes sense for the time, the Model 3 looks like a video game system & the Model 2 just seems a bit lost in between to me.
@@seanmckelvey6618 bruh I love the model 1. Stands out from the crowd and is really awesome to look at.
@@agamelegend9441 Model 1 is the most high tech looking for sure. It's a close second to the Model 3 for me just because it 100% looks like something you would see on a Hi Fi rack of the time and be impressed by. Especially compared to the NES it looks like a serious piece of technology as opposed to a toy. I have just always liked the rounded edges and curves of the Model 3, it's simple & kind of fits more with the styling of the Saturn.
Same. And agreed. I'm looking forward to the Mini 2, even though I have the Mini 1.
The one thing the Genesis 3 brings to the table is ready-made compatibility with mega drive carts. They fit without modification, and the few I have play fine.
Didn’t know about that! Good to know
yeah this is exactly what I commented in the top. Thanks for clarifying. There was also a cartridge to hack permanently the console which I believe was necessary
Sort of. Games that are region locked still won't play without modding and JP Sunsoft carts don't fit as the slot isn't quite large enough.
@@thepthepthepTrue. There are exceptions.
Let me clear up the info here for all you looking for a certain revision. The earliest Genesis Model 1 without the TMSS will be the VA0 - VA5, Some revisions are exclusive to other Regions. VA0 - VA2 has a preamp bug which causes sound distortion with loud games, will need to replace resistors. Two 10K ohm and one (preferably) 20k ohm 1206 SMD resistors. VA3 fixes that issue. VA6 HDG will have TMSS. The Late VA-6 revision Omits the EXT port, But the rest aren't moved and Thus still have great audio. if the Ports are shoved close to the center, RF port where the EXT port used to be, then you have the VA7 aka "The Stinker". Sega was trying to go ASIC with the audio, Hence Integrated YM3438 instead of the Discrete YM2612. But the audio Circuitry is at very poor quality due to the SMD capacitors and op-amp chips they used. This followed into the Model 2 all the way from VA0 to VA1.8. VA2 and VA2.3 are the only revisions with a Discrete YM2612 and are rare to come by, You may think thats Good, Right? Well... No. YM2612 is Loud and the PSG is very unbalanced. Unfortunately there isn't any information on how to fix that besides a Mega Amp or Triple Bypass mod. VA3 is a very much improved Revision of the Model 2 and is considered the Best Model 2 with Clear Audio and no distortion. VA4 is a 1 chip system and the quality is about the same, but suffers from louder PSG. Now the Model 3s, the Z80 is built into the ASIC Chip like the Model 2 VA4. There would be no sense in the Z80 being scrapped, It's needed for the sound. Also Model 3 Genny is missing specific connections from the GOAC to the cartridge slot which prevents compatibility with the 32X, Power Base Converter, Virtua Racing and Game Genie. That can be fixed with some modifications. Unfortunately VA2 Model 3 revision is only limited to Virtua Racing and Game genie after the mod. I hope that clears things up for everyone.
I want to add that MD2 VA2.3 has an error in the VDP that breaks the raster effect feature used in certain games. The final boss arena in S3&K Knuckles' story has a broken background, for example. No way to fix it, so you may as well try hunting down a VA2 or 3.
Additionally, video encoders are a mixed bag for composite output throughout the MD2's run. Samsung, Sony and Fujitsu chips were used without any consistency. All of them have issues; Samsung encoders suffer from black banding, for example. Thankfully it doesn't matter if you tap the RGB signal, though.
@@ZonicMirage Thanks for the added info. I do have that revision with the broken ASIC as well. Not all do have that Faulty ASIC chip, but I guess the majority of that particular revision does. I also figured out that one resistor "R31" should be removed and bridged to bring up the PSG gain in both VA2 and VA2.3s.
@@TheHulkingMenace I have a messed up VA2.3 as well. Yeah, there's a sub-revision with a fixed ASIC, but they're super rare. May as well hunt for a 2 or 3.
Wow you all know your stuff. In your opinion where does the cdx quality audio rank? I own the original model 1 Genesis and cdx personally. Thanks.
@@dad7275 I don't personally own a CDX, but by hearing comparisons, I can say the quality is pretty average by best. Much better than model 2s with bad audio.
The original sega Genesis model 1 high definition graphics had a Yamaha sound chip with stereo sound
That's why I use it more than my cdx, and nomad.
but output in mono lol
@@narniaphuket nope. Gotta use headphone jack though but it does have stereo sound.
@@narniaphuket The headphone jack is stereo. You just plug in a 3.5mm to Composite cable and you have amazing sound in stereo on your tv.
@@guardianali that just makes the audio that much worse by introducing interference via an extra unnecessary connector
The sega genesis 3 actually has the cleanest audio it’s just that it’s only mono and lacks a bit of bass
Thanks so much for making this! So few people, even within the Genesis enthusiast community, know the differences. So many are passionate about their model 2’s but the sound quality is worse. When I got my model 1 original version (without the licensed by Sega screen), and I play SOR2, the sound blows me away
I recently made the switch from the Indonesian model 2 to the Model one with the hd label today and playing mk3 looks superior on it.
So the tell tale sign of whether or not it has better audio is actually the location of the AC adapter port. If it's all the way in the bottom right, then your board has the better sound, regardless of the "High Definition" label. The system I have is one such example, no label but improved sound. It's night and day compared to the model 2. Thought I'd share incase any one was looking to snag one of these nowadays.
Original Genesis, 32x, Sega cd, component cables, and a Sony Trinitron 32 inch crt tv is how I rock. 😊👍
W
This may be a random TH-cam Comment request but is there any way I could see what your picture looks like? I recently grabbed a trinitron 32 and I'm not sure if the picture is right. Can't seem to find any help
"degradation", not "degration".
Sorry haha, but if nobody says anything, you'll never learn.
Thanks for the vid
They are basically computers with different processors it is so neat
There are actually two releases of the Genesis Model 2 with different sound boards. You can tell which is which by looking at the bottom vent of the system. If the metal plate covering the board does not extend the full length of the vent, you have the better model.
Based on the placement of the port on that non-hd model 1, it likely has the same board as the hd model 1. Same audio quality.
Correct the va7 model 1 has the model 2 board and ports pushed to the middle
I’ve had just about every Genesis model over the years except the CDX…I remember seeing the Model 1 Genesis when I a kid and I grew up playing the Genesis 2 years later…
I even bought the Genesis 3 when it came out when I was in middle school…
All good consoles in my opinion, but the one I still have to this day is the HDG Genesis, it’s 30 years old and plays like a champ…
I love that ole thing…and yes…I still play Sonic 2 on it as well
XD
Just do a triple bypass mod and you won't have to worry about which model to get. That mod fixes most issues with any particular revision.
yeah this is what I'm talking about. in the 90s we had mods for TV, camera, sound, almost everything
I just bought a model 1 High Definition Graphics version with the port; I didn't know the difference.
And I do have a Sony Trinitron 32" CRT TV that my neighbor gave me. It still works, and I just put it in the back room collecting dust. Now the TV has a purpose.
i bought a model 2 with a few games on eBay to begin my collection but after a couple days of research, i realized I wanted a Model 1 and lucky enough i found a Hi Def original model 1 for $40 and Sonic 👍 both are really cool though. Model 1 stays home, model 2 or 3 for when you travel
Model 2 for Mega/Sega CD model 2 and 32x use is also a good option.
If anybody is looking to grab a sega genesis now days you guys should go for these consoles in this order with the first one giving you the best picture and sound.
1- JVC X'eye Sega genesis/Sega CD combo
2- Model 2 VA4
3- Model 1 High Definition Graphics with the serial port.
Nothing wrong with any of these consoles but these are the best of the best.
There's also one out there called "Mega Sg" made by Analogue, unfortunately it is only hdmi so it is only meant to be connected to the new type of tv/monitors no CRTs or PVMs..but the system does offer a lot of goodies!
I looked at the Mega SG page. It says that it uses a FPGA chip and is highly compatible and has no input lag.
Personally, I have the atGames SEGA Genesis model 2. The nice thing with this one is that it has a SD card slot. I copied a bunch of ROM files to a SD card, stick it in there and boot up the atGames.
It can't run 32X games.
It is HDMI output only.
The sound is good. There is input lag of 0.5 s and 1 s sound lag in general.
Also, you can save up to 5 game states, even for the games on the SD card.
You can even rewind a game for up to 7 seconds.
@@louistournas120 Nothing wrong with FPGAs and to be honest I believe it is the new way to emulate older consoles, you should do some research about the Mister FPGA!!! It is very promising! It simulates the real hardware with close to none lag, bluetooth, RGB and hdmi, so much stuff avaliable. I'm in the process of biulding one!
@@culturax2285 I think that FPGA is the superior solution but they really should have a SD card slot so that we could put hundreds of ROM files on it.
Because buying the hundreds of original SEGA cartridges is impossible and I don't think that SEGA will manufacture them anytime soon. It also uses up a lot of plastic and a lot of room.
Nintendo and SEGA released a retro system a few years back (mini-NES, mini-SNES, mini-Genesis) but again, no SD card slot.
@@louistournas120
Sega repros for the analogue
@@vh-ali_n-teen What do you mean?
Awesome video! I recently came across all 4 and I always wondered if there was a difference. This def helped me come to a descion on which to keep! Love it
I have the Sega Genesis Model 2, that I've recently brought from my grandmother's house. I had it almost 20 years, since 2003. I will play games like Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Sonic the Hedgehog 3, and other games, and accessories, like the standard controller, and the Sega Genesis Arcade Power Stick, real soon.
Actually, the real names for these two Model 1 consoles are "Early Model 1" (with "High Definition Graphics") and "Later Model 1" (without the "High Definition Graphics") ...
Model 2 is the redesigned model from 1993...
Would you say the later model 1 is still worth getting? I found a very nice refurbished one that has been completely gone thru, but I wonder if I shouldn't hold out for an early model 1. I guess just wondering if the audio is that much of a noticeable difference.
No pain , no gain
Only by risking money on certain paths makes peoples more richer in knowledge, and if the end results dose not please you in the end well then you gain experience based on the waste of money
0:11 the kids playing on a flat screen. That tv was ahead of its time.
As a kid i had both the original model one and the 2 , maybe its cuz i was 12 but i never noticed a difference in sound
I should say something here, you're half wrong on the model 1 parts...the slightly later ones without the EXT port "the traces to the EXT Port are still in tact" it's similar to the High Definition graphics models, only differences is some of the very early ones don't say "Licensed by SEGA" whenever you start a game, the ones you really need to watch out are the late model 1's that came out in 1992-93, they don't say High Definition Graphics and the ports on the back are shifted to the left and the blank spot is on the far right.
Everything else you mentioned is correct.
Outside of the lack of "Licensed by Sega" screen, the earlier versions of the Model 1 lacked a lockout chip thus it was possible to play games from different regions by modifying the plastic casing used for the ROM cartridges.
@@ggn3 Oh, I see. So they designed the plastic such that it doesn't fit into the console.
I suppose one could remove the plastic and just insert the PCB of the game.
@@ggn3 Sega then implemented software lockout around the launch of the model 2. Since it's tied to a system's region configuration, you'd need a mod to get around that. I couldn't run my US copy of Streets of Rage 2 on my early-run JP Mega Drive without one.
You can use a an adapter or Game Genie to bypass the cartridge shapes.
Thank you! This will help me start my Genesis collection. Definitely getting the model 1.
You have to give Sega credit you don't see Nintendo doing anything like this
Thank you so much for watching! What version of the Sega Genesis is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
Genesis model 1 va3
Sega genesis high defination graphics better looking
I own the Sega Genesis model 1 v2
@Andrew Youngblood hey i have a question, does the sega genesis and the model 2 and model 3 all use the same games???? Please reply let me know.
Hey pixelslayers, i was wondering, do all 4 of them play the same games? Like if i buy a sega game could i play it in all 4 models? Or do they all take different version games?
This brings back fond memories. I had the second model SEGA Genesis.
Thank you for the video .
Just picked up a SEGA genesis 2 and I didn’t know the difference till now 👍 still love sega
3:28 i have this revision of the model 1, and the audio is as good as a hdg sega genesis, just letting u guys know there are still non-hdg models with great sound, and from what i heard there are some hdg sega genesis models with horrible sound.
what i have is a model 1 va6.5, its basically just a sega genesis va6 (hdg) but without the EXT port, probably making this revision the most ideal genesis in my opinion (disregarding the hdg slogan being gone)
Yep, this guy doesn't have the "bad" one. The bad one is the one with no serial port, and no blank spot - this has the blank spot. The bad one has the ports moved over and doesn't really have that empty area.
Genesis 2 was my favorite,I remember mines came with Sonic 2
In my case, my favorite is Model 3 because the same reason you said, so I think is all about preference and convenience
This is exactly what I was looking for. Thanks for the lesson!
If you get this model 1 and an Everdrive cart then you have it all. No need for mini-me
🥂 🍾 🎉
This is great info. Thanks for sharing.
I still have my original version 1 Sega Genesis
Thanks
I have original model
There aren't 4 models. There are 3 models - Genesis "1", Genesis "2" and Genesis 3, and within each of those models there are sub-models, with different "VA" revisions of motherboard.
Holy crap those are dirty
I got one called the Samsung Gam*Boy and i bought it for NT$20.00 and it came from South Korea and it plays my games just fine
Those are pretty much equivalent to a Japanese Mega Drive, very nice find for that price
South Korea banned all Japanese products so the rebranded the Megadrive so they could sale it.
@@thepthepthep yeah
@@thepthepthep apparently it was a VA7 version of the Sega MegaDrive
This is about the depth of analysis you might expect from a product of the American education system.
There's so much research they could've done that would have refuted some of the flat-out myths in here but nope
@@thepthepthep Even without research, that plug is clearly NOT 3.5 inches. 3.5mm / 1/8" stereo, and you would never want to use one wired up for yellow as well, as those TRRS connectors won't likely line up correctly inside the jack. In what world is a camera cable like that more common than a simple 1/8" to R/W?
Another difference: only model 1s are compatible with the Master System adaptor!
There is also a Master System Adapter for model 2 and also a 3rd party who works on Model 1 and 2 (which I have)
@@AP101083 I didn't know about that!! That's awesome, wish I had had the Model 2 adaptor as a kid!
This video got my subscription buddy! Great info!
The genesis 3 does not play gargoyles just so everyone knows
Great background music. how do I find this sonic mix?
Music credits are in video description
That's still a model 1, it's called The Stinker because of the cheaper audio chip. It's the version paired with Sonic 1, needed lots produced because of Sonics popularity popularity.
Thanks a lot!!!! I was going to buy the model 2, now I’m getting the model 1 Ver 1
The name mega drive looks like your driving into a car with blast processing in Europe or something
I still have my model 1 and power converter attachment, just got some cables to hook it up again since I can't find mine for some reason :P
Very informative.
That second model 1 you have there with no EXT port is actually a VA6.5 with exactly the same audio as the best of the ones with “High Definition Graphics” ring text. The VA2 launch revision actually have bad stereo sound because there is too much gain on the preamp causing loud sounds to clip after the headphone amp. The second one you have is objectively superior.
The reason you think the second one is inferior is because it looks like a VA7 but there are some key differences. First, the power jack is in the corner just like your High Definition Graphics model. That is because the board inside is still a VA5/6 board with an empty EXT port footprint which, combined with the shielding and RF modulator, displaces the power jack off the board (connected with wires). Meanwhile, Japanese consoles never had shielding or RF so the jack was always mounted to the board.
VA7 finally gets rid of the EXT footprint making room to move everything onto the board. VA7 Japanese is a bit harder to tell. Luckily, you can see the board through the vents to tell (VA7 has no components on the bottom).
If you look into the cartridge slot of a VA7 you will see SMD resistors, capacitors, and empty footprints for them. You will not see that on earlier Model 1 consoles.
So if you can’t tell by listening the tell is by looking in the cart slot or looking at where the power jack is located.
The one I had as a kid said high definition graphics
Very informative. Thanks
Thanks a lot great review . I got the first & 3rd version
I think my favorite is still the model 2. It's smaller, and has the most compatibility with add-ons and what not with the fewest compromises. It also looks the best. Think the model 1 had better sound though.
the ones with the extra port on the unit had the best sound. also had the high def graphics
Master good morning, I have a Japanese mega drive that has two slots for cartridge 😳, one in the normal place and one right in front lying forward and hidden under the housing, I can't find any other like it, have you come across this model? On the board it is defined like this MD - 1095 G -1.5 ARG02
Is it me or is the gen 1 genesis looks like a small turntable?
Great vid! I was always wondering which system was the best!
Since I use a converter av2hdmi (yes, I know, crap converter), does it matter which version of Model 1 I get? HDG vs non-HDG Model 1. Since I'll be doing some converting in order to play on my modern display monitor, which uses HDMI, I think quality will be lost either way, so both versions of it will basically still be crap. Am I right to assume this?
In fact your Sega Genesis without the EXT port is revision VA6.5 and not VA7. It has the same audio as the other one.
One thing most people and he did not mentis that the original can play games that the others can't true fact
At the time when I was shopping for Genesis I did not know about the sound issues. I actually had a lot of options but I end up going with the model 2 which was the cheapest at the time I was shopping last year
The only model I ever had was the sega genesis 3, I had 2 of the same one, and played plenty of games on it, good ol days
It literally evolved backwards.
You should included SEGA CDX because it's a standalone Genesis unit! 🙏🏻☯️🥶‼
Dumb question, where do you guys buy monitors or televisions to play these older systems?
Just garage sales or eBay? Nothing new, right?
Not a dumb question at all! And yeah, we find them at thrift shops.
Does the Genesis 3 still have "blast processing "?
You know it!
@@PixelSlayers I love the passion, but I have to admit that back then I was a Super Nintendo kid.
We’re fans of both, no worries
I been wondering the difference for almost 30 years
What model has better image?
Had the model 1 growing up that was the main one that we had out..
Enjoyed the video thanks for sharing 👍
Audio quality aside, is the graphical fidelity the same across the 4 segas you have here?
There’s one more version The Nomad.
What about the Nomad and the CDX?
We wanted to cover just the base Genesis systems... plus we don’t have those 😢
Its not like that at all with PAL mega drives. The 2 variants of the Model 1 have the same audio quality and if anything the one without the ext port on the back produce a significantly better picture.
High definition graphics
I had the model 1 back in 1989
The Genesis model 1 version 1, the one with the high definition graphics is actually a Japanese mega drive motherboard inside and can play all imported Sega mega drive cartridges.
Not true, the cartridge slot doesn't fit JP cartridges without physical modding and region locked Japanese games will not work with a converter or modding.
The motherboard design is also slightly different as the Japanese Mega Drive doesn't have an RF modulator like all model 1 Genesis consoles do.
My first generation NA genesis is able to play jp cartridges that I used to rent from microplay back in the days, true that the JP cartridges won't fit in the NA genesis, but microplay trimmed the edges of the JP cartridges so it would fit in to the NA genesis
First generation of the NA had no region lockout
If only you hade the At Games console and the Mini 1 to throw in there as well.
i grew up with sega mega drive, the model is exactly like upper image but no genesis written
When I was younger I thought if I wanted to collect for CD games id want a model 2, cause modle 2 cds tend to be more reliable then model 1
Dont forget the cdx, and nomad.
genesis 3 doesnt have that notch in the cartridge slot so it can play megadrive games
As a big SEGA fan, I’ve always wondered why SEGA released so many versions of the Genesis, especially since there’s minimal difference in image quality between them. It seems to me that SEGA could have focused on creating a single Genesis model and improving its sound quality instead. In contrast, the SNES only had European/Japanese and American versions, all of which apparently had consistent image quality. I’m not a fan of the fact that SEGA created 3 different Genesis versions with only slight variations in image quality.
What about the Sega CDX? It was another Genesis console as well but combined with the Sega cd.
Fished out my Sega from the basement last week or so, it was my first game console and it's been a blast going back to blast processing
My dad had the model 3, but I have a model 1
Genesis 2 + Mega AMP- fixes audio issue. RGB Genesis 2, is better than the first model
I know I’m late but mode 1 is king
I have a sega genisis stereo av cable sealed in the box. Its a sega offical accessorie to. I also have the jvc sega genisis to it has direct av out.
Is there differences in the quality of components if the Sega Genesis HDG is made in Japan or Taiwan?
I recently purchase a new sega genesis model 2 with 6 buttoms controllers. Witch board do you think is? VA-0 or VA-1? came with the original film, I dont want to open it lol
5:56 That doesn't sound right. The z80 is responsible for controlling both sound processors in the system (the YM2612 and the SN76489 integrated into the vdp). If they were to remove that, then every single Genesis game would be made incompatible.
Depends on the sound driver used in each game. Some use only Motorola 68000 for everything.
Sonic 1 uses SMPS (Sample Music Playback System) 68k version, only PCM samples are using Z80, later games switched entirely to Z80 based drivers.
Genesis 3 is actually mostly emulated and extremely cheaply made.
The Z80 is part of the GOAC (Genesis On A Chip) that the Genesis 3 is based on as are most of the other major components.
I also noticed they said that the supposed lack of a Z80 is why the 32X and Virtua Racing aren't compatible, which is completely untrue. The actual reason is because the cartridge port isn't properly wired to support them; the early VA1 revision can be modded for 32X compatibility and both Genesis 3 revisions can be easily modded for Virtua Racing compatibility.
@@PilaCiu There's no emulation involved with the Genesis 3, it uses an ASIC which includes the cores for all of the major chips (68K, Z80, VDP, YM3438, I/O, etc).
I dunno, I have the second, "cheaper" model 1, and it sounds pretty darn crisp and clear to me, especially compared with my model 2. I'd consider purchasing an original "High Definition Graphics" model 1 to compare, but I dunno if it'd be worth it. As is, I'm pretty darn satisfied.
i had a 1 and a 2 and never noticed the difference but i also wasnt looking lol
The information here wasn't quite right. There are a spectrum of releases within each body or shell, so to speak. Most of the model 1 bodies with or without the High Definition Graphics logo should sound the same. The one he showed won't sound any different from the one next to it, and you can tell because there's that extra space where a port could be notched out where the EXT/DB9 port WOULD have gone, if it was the HDG model. If you see one with no HDG and a back flat area that ends immediately after the CH3/4 toggle, then you're in degraded audio territory. The reason people go for the HDG models so passionately is the guarantee that it won't be the bad audio model and because it is the only model with the potential be non-TMSS (if it's old enough, it won't open with the security/licensing screen and will have enhanced compatibility with some very early Japanese games, or unlicensed games, but in general it will never matter).
Yeah that's what I was gonna say, the two Mega Drive ones in this video are the same. You can tell because the power input barrel is in the same place 😂 The inferior sounding ones had the power input barrel closer to the middle of the console away from the right corner. It's funny cuz the guy doesn't even know, despite having both good ones 😂🤦
I own the Model 1 without the HD Label, but I still think it's great! I don't have stereo AV cords though 😢.
Was anyone else confused on mode one vs model 2? I mean it says High Definition on Mode one but I could’ve swore you said many times Model 2 was better.... then went back and said Mode one was the best. Idk... I was confused.
Mode 1 is the all rounder
Nice
Good job player