I'm a big horror fan and I love games such as Resident Evil, Silent Hill, Haunting Ground. So I bought "Clock Tower" for the SNES. Even though I didn't have a SNES, I went online and didn't want to buy an SNES for close to 70 dollars for just one game, so I came across this RetroDuo for 40 dollars and it got mailed in a few days same with "Clock Tower" and I was very happy that it played the game no problem and the sound on it sounds awesome!!!! Great Retro Console.
or better yet as I mentioned in the video, you could use any OEM controller from Nintendo. When you buy a RetroDuo, remember you must preform the audio dampener mod if you want NES audio to sound correct.
To each their own. Donkey Kong Country 2 is my favorite platformer ever. Castlevania IV/Super Star Wars are action platformers since you're using weapons and not jumping on/running into enemies to defeat them.
@Rockoguy The Famicom to NES adapter shown in the video is an official one taken from a Gyromite cart. Only the very first production run Gyromites have the adapter, most don't. All I did was cut the top shell of the cartridge off, used a good amount of glue to hold the adapter in place and there ya go, instant adapter. There are all kinds of commercially available ones too, but I had an extra Gyromite, so why not?
As a general rule, do not buy Hyperkin's clones. The RetroN2 is vastly inferior to the RetroDuo, in both performance and compatibility. The RetroN2 has all sorts of weird problems such as the SNES side being mono only (stereo just provides dual mono). If you're looking for a clone, I would recommend waiting until the RetroBit Super Retro Trio (SNES,NES, Genesis) is released, or Hyperkin's RetorN5. I plan to cover both to see which is superior, so subscribe, and check back often.
@Skulldeathula9000 I own the original systems as well, but here's a few reasons why I collect clones: 1 The authentic NES is like a vintage car - old & subject to many repairs. I want to go easy on my NES so it lasts for years to come. 2 I find reverse-engineering and technological advances in clones fascinating. 3 I wanted to see how good the Retro Duo's NOAC is. Best I've seen. 4 I can hook up the Retro Duo to a tv other than the one my NES is hooked to. That's why I collect clones, sir.
Actually, Kid Dracula is only the localized name of the much lower quality original GameBoy port. The Famicom game I show here is Akumajou Special: Boku Dracula-kun! which literally means "Demon House [Castlevania] Special: I'm Dracula!". Boku Dracula-kun has no North American or European NES counterpart. It's a great Megaman-style platformer with Konami's sense of wacky humor that brought us Parodius, especially since you play as Alucard from Castlevania III and Symphony of the Night. Fun game.
In 99.9% of cases, it'll be the cartridge. Depending on the maintenance [or lack thereof] over the decades, simply blowing on the cartridge contacts won't always help. I recommend buying a 3.8mm gamebit, opening the cartridge and thoroughly cleaning the cartridge contacts with 90% or higher isopropyl alcohol and cotton swabs. For caked on grime, use a clean eraser.
European countries use very different electrical standards than North America. The voltage that comes from the wall there is 220v whereas its 110-120v here. Devices intended for 120v would literally be fried if they were fed 220v. Therefore, you need a step down converter. Google the term for more info.
The RetroDuo is solidly built and doesn't feel cheap at all. The controllers it comes with are junk, but since you can use any real SNES controller, it's a moot point. But sure, if you want to go with the original hardware, then go right ahead. I use my Super Famicom all the time. The RetroDuo is simply a very good alternative for those who want a small system without the giant power brick that has vivid S-Video, plays all NTSC games worldwide and also plays NES games as well.
Yes it does. I'll make it easy for you: If the game is NTSC and was made before 1996, there's a 99.9% chance it'll work on the RetroDuo. If the game is PAL, then change that date to mid 1993.
You don't understand. The NES is completely incapable of producing S-Video. Period. The RetroDuo has S-Video output, but it only applies to the SNES motherboard. However, since the video connections are shared between both the SNES and NES boards, the S-Video line IS connected through the NES board in a roundabout way. Instead of a dead connection, the Luma + Sync line is feed a composite video signal. Different tv types and brands all react differently to S-Video lines that are fed composite.
Some TVs will not react at all, simply producing a normal composite video through the S-Video plug. Other tvs give distortion, others will not display at all. HDTVs are the most likely not to accept composite signals through S-Video, but again it really varies.
What RitchierocksPokemon forgot to menction about the Retro Duo is you can actually replace the terrible D-Pad with a Super Pad (3rd Party SNES controller) from Performance and make the controller more comfortable which you won't do with the FC Twin (I'm trading my FC Twin for a Retro Duo).
It's not as simple as a plug adapter, you need to ensure you are using a step down transformer as well. The voltage that comes from the wall in the UK will destroy the RetroDuo if not properly adapted. If you need more info, google or go to a electronics store and ask someone about running American electronics on your soil. Also obviously, the RetroDuo outputs NTSC composite and S-Video signals. you need to use a TV that can run 60Hz NTSC and doesn't only have SCART.
@Timesteel No, it's just SOLD by RetroBit. What they've branded is exactly the Yobo FC Game Console. The same hardware, same shell, same controllers, same power supply, same compatibility issues.
@Rockoguy A guy I know agreed to do the tedious soldering of the 80ish wires. There's a reason they go for around $100 for most people who make them. Star Fox 2 repro's are a huge pain in the ass to make.
The RetroDuo doesn't have reversed duty cycles for NES games, but it does have a distortion unless retrobit fixed that just recently. SNES side should look great in S-Video, so I'd suggest you use that rather than composite.
Yes, all SNES variants SF2 work on the RetroDuo. 99% of US SNES or Japanese Super Famicom games play on clones such as the RetroDuo. Only SA-1 games give trouble. Google for a short list to watch out for.
@nyktharas If you really wanted to, you could replace the d-pad int he Retro Duo pad with one from an actual SNES controller, but like I said in the video, just use real SNES or Super Famicom controllers and leave the ones you get with the Retro Duo in the box.
The Starfox 2 repro was made by a friend who later moved to Alaska. Why would you want to use an NES controller on StarFox 2? It doesn't have enough buttons. Unless you're asking if it will work in the RetroDuo itself, which is the answer is yes.
yup. FYI, you can't do that with anything at all that saves - cartridges, memory cards, even harddrives. Never move ANYTHING that saves when its powered!
@SuperNovadose That's really strange. Both the SNES and NES controller are based on the 4021 so you shouldn't run into any such issue. The only thing I can figure is that you have bad SNES controllers, or there is some sort of grounding issue. Try borrowing SNES controllers from friends or something. If that doesn't work, run a continuity test with a multimeter. If all else fails, replace the Retro Duo. Your problem isn't typical.
You are entitled to your opiniom but for SNES, the RetroDuo is such an excellent Super NES clone that with only the most minor of exceptions, it runs exactly like an SNES just with added NES support as well. The debate of original hardware vs clones isn't going anywhere, but if you are looking for a clone, you can't go do much better than the RetroDuo.
Whatever case, make sure you buy an OEM SNES or Super Famiom controller. It'll make a world of difference. I like the newly produced RetroBit Saturn looking pads, but nothing beats the Nintendo made SFC controller in the long run.
The fix is extremely minor, and isn't necessary unless you really care about the NES daughterboard sounding like a real NES. Even without the optional minor fix, the RetroDuo is still better than any other SNES/NES clone on the market. It's one thing if you have no interest in clones, but saying "you'll pass" because of an optional step that takes less than five minutes and costs under $1 is pretty stupid.
keep in mind you'll need basic soldering skills to build an audio dampener for the NES daghterboard that corrects the system's awful default NES audio output.
I've said it before and I'll say it again: the "RES" is just the same old common NOAC Famiclone previously known as the FC Game Console and before that, NeoFami. That is NOT a good Famiclone. Generally speaking, the old saying applies to clone systems - you get what you pay for. There's a reason the FC Game Console and its many rebrandings are $15-20 anywhere you look.
it's a secret to everyone! actually, I got it from a friend visiting Japan several years ago. He knew how big a fan I was of the Nintendo Wars games and I sent him some money to pick it up for me.
The answer is yes* for NES and no** for SNES. This is an NTSC System only. *PAL NES games will play, but due to the PAL NES having a slower processor, PAL NES games will play 1.7x faster than they should. **Nintendo region locked SNES games beginning around 1993. All PAL releases after that will not play on a NTSC system such as this, and all NTSC releases will not play on a PAL system. Prior to that, early PAL games like F-Zero or Super Mario World will play. Mario All Stars is the cutoff.
That really depends on what you want/need. The RDP will be more expensive and the non Core versions come with amazing controllers, but the standard RDP does S-Video, has a better NOAC, and can be modded for better NES audio.
Yes, it fixes any audio issue of any NES game, including Castlevania 2. if you can't figure out how to do the mod or where to get the parts you need, hire me and I'll do it for a small fee. PM me if you're interested.
I bought a RetroDuo last year, first thing I did was to plug in my Starfox 2 Reproduction cartridge. It worked just fine. Every other game I own (Including my other Reproductions) all work just fine.
It's your cart. Just give it a thorough cleaning. Watch my "How to clean cartridges properly" video if you are unsure what you need to do to get it clean enough to work. Castlevania 4 definitely works with the RetroDuo.
As long as you can solder the siple audio dampener required to fix the awful sound on the NES daughterbought, the Retro Duo is by far the best Famiclone on the market. The FC Twin as you mentioned is a very poor Famiclone substitute; it can't compare with the RetroDuo at all. It's got a much weaker NOAC that not only preforms worse, but also has incurable sound issues and will play fewer games than the RD will. Get a RetroDuo if you want a Famiclone.
It's a good thought, but ineffective. The RetroDuo does not run the NES Powerpak whatsoever. Therefore, it can't play Rolling Thunder via the Powerpak any more than it can run the actual cart. The Super Powerpak does not run games that used any expansion chips beyond DSP1. Super Mario RPG relies on the highly advanced SA-1 coprocessor which the Super Powerpak lacks, so no Powerpak based Mario RPG. Real cart only.
Action 52: Make your selection now. Satoshi Matrix: No *turns retro duo off* That was funny, I posted a comment with that reference and it's the popular comment.
Sorry to hear about your data loss, but a claim that the RetroDuo selectively erases battery-backed SRAM is a completely fictitious statement. What happened was either the battery died, or you wiggled the cartridge while it was powered, which would erase SRAM on a real SNES too. It's fine if you prefer the real hardware to clones, but the RetroDuo does not erase saves. In fact, the RetroDuo is actually safer & more stable running on a constant 5v regulated voltage vs the 9v unregulated original.
@SatoshiMatrix1 Well I got a FC Twin because in the future I will be doing a -comparison between that and the Super Nintendo Mini (SNS-101) to show off some differances on my Senarocksforever channel.
Oh I think there are more than just three, but thank you for the feedback. If you like my stuff, check out my newer content as well. I'm always doing stuff like this and with a better camera now I'm going to be redoing HD versions of my older stuff like this. if you like what you see, subscribe!
I got my Retro Duo on Christmas Eve in the mail surprisingly! I've been playing it a good while and I'm quite happy with it. I definitely took your advice on the Retro Duo Portable and got the newer gamepads they made, and they're far superior. Surprisingly, the sound chip in my NES side doesn't have any off reversed duty cycles and whatnot on my HDTV, which I was very surprised. The only gripe I have is the SNES side's AV composite video, the blacks have strange lines that waver around. :/
I know that, I was mentioning that if your old SNES controller breaks down on you (if you only had 1 controller). Plus I only have 2 nes games (those being Super Mario Bros. 3 & Super Mario Bros, Duck Hunt, & World Class Track Meet on the same cart) and I plan to get it for SNES games because I have like 7 or 8 snes games.
You need an NTSC compatible tv. PAL is only optional but seeing that you live in the UK I bet it's pretty much a give in that all tvs will be PAL to begin with.
I kinda wish that splitters these days have S-Video ports on them.. it's pretty much a pain switching out the splitter to just put in the S-Video. Also the Retro Duo 3.0 I guess fixed it, or at least the console I got didn't have any problems as with doing the Super Mario Bros. test for its audio, same with The Legend of Zelda.
Hey SatoshiMatrix1 Great Series Of Videos Man, I Always Find Your Vids To Be Very Knowledge-able And Helpfull When I Look For Retro Games, Systems And Accessories. Keep Up The Good Vids! Also, Mind If I Ask Quick Question? You Mention That The Retro Duo Has S-Video Support, But It Won't Work With NES/Famicom Games On Some CRT Tv's, So Then, Will S-Video Work On NES/Famicom Games Using An HD Tv? Or Will S-Video Just Won't Work For NES/Famicom Games Period? No Matter The Tv? Thanks In Advance!
I had watched this review years ago. I still have a Retro Duo that works great. I don't play it much, due to having the Analogue Super Nt. I highly recommend getting one if you haven't already.
Close to where I study are some stores where they sell old games and consoles. They sell this too in one of them, so I'll try to buy it if it really works that well.
I also found out with my copy of Super Mario Rpg won't work the normal way on my Retro Duo. What you have to do is to turn it on to the 8 bit switch for about 3 seconds then quickly turn it to 16 bit position and for some reason it skips the security chip thing and it boots right up.You may have to try this trick a couple times until you get the timing right. Hopefully this works for you.
I don't understand what you're asking. Are you asking if you make an SNES to NES controller and then use an controller extinction cable will that work? The answer is no, unless you modify the controller extension as well.
The RetroDuo is as good of a clone as you can get, so I'd hazard a guess that it does indeed work, but without owning one I can't be absolute certain. The Super Powerpak works, and that's debatably superior anyway.
It depends. Are you only casually interested in retro nes gaming? If so, get a RetroDuo and preform the audio dampener mod yourself or hire me or someone else to do it for you. If you're more hardcore, its best to avoid the toploader NES entirely and get an AV Famicom and a good pin adapter. The AV Famicom is Japanese version of the NES Top loader, and much better hardware for more reasons than youtube comment length will allow.
Again, you must have an early revision of the RetroDuo or a dirty Dragon Warrior 1 cartridge. The NOAC in the RetroDuo does indeed play simpe MMC1 games including Dragon Warrior 1. If you'd like I can make a video response myself to prove it.
That's like asking if you can fix a breakline without popping the hood. You either gotta get your hands dirty and do it yourself, or have someone who knows what they're doing do it for you. I do offer that service if you are interested. PM me.
As long as you use a step down transformer, you'll be able to play all NTSC or PAL NES games, nearly any NTSC SNES game or Japanese Super Famicom game, but only a small handful of PAL SNES games. The Majority of PAL games will not function. At risk of repeating myself, again, you must have a tv that can run NTSC natively. PAL 50 and PAL 60 are NOT supported.
Well, now I know why my save data was erased. It was cause the cartridge was wiggled when the system was moved after the controller cord was tripped over. That explains a lot. :D
oh man.. reminds me of the video that vomitsaw did with the Nintoaster Instructional Video. i suppose you lucked out though with your particular build of the Retro Duo in terms of the NES cart slot, makes me jealous haha.
@999chocoboPWN Eh? The "Retro Entertainment System" is just another name for the Yobo FC Game Console, which was one of the first licensed Famiclones out six years ago. I own one of those, and it has the poorest performance of any Famiclone I've ever seen. Reverse audio duty cycles, jailbars, and random glitches even in MMC1 games. It's true it uses the NES 7-pin controller standard, but that's about all it has going for it. You'd be better off with almost any other Famiclone.
An snes controller doesnt feel good with NES games? I found it far superior. They're far more comfortable then the original rectangle pads (more similar to the dogbone) and they look awesome. You can also make an adapter to use SNES controllers on authentic hardware, without modding a standard controller. I also though the red and black one looked better then the solver and black one, similar to the one that rinrygamegame has. I also noticed there were vertical lines on the video when you first
The HDTV has both 16:9 and 4:3 settings. Why did I use it in the video? I have several tvs. The only reason i used this 20" HDTV is because there's no scanlines for my camera to not sync to and thus make look awful for the sake of the video. 9/10 times I play on my 1984 ColorPilot CRT. Check out my other videos to learn more about that amazing amazing tv.
Yeah those. But here's the sad thing about the controllers I got. They ONLY work with the NES side but absolutely REFUSE to work properly on the SNES side at all (like pressing A on the controller is the same function as Start or something, and pressing Y will not function at all).. and what's even worse is I even tried using a real SNES controller for the SNES side of the system, and it behaves the same way. Is something in the system faulty for controllers?
both Lufias are a yes, but EarthBound is a yes*. EarthBound has an anti-piracy countermeasure that occurs whenever it doesn't make contact witht he system pins of an actual SNES, such as when using a GameGenie, Copy device, or yes, a clone like the RetroDuo. What happens? The game still plays, but all enemies are far more difficult and aggressive, making the game far less fun to play. Read more about this on starmen.net.
Which version of the Retro Duo do you have? Reason I ask is because I was testing a Retro Duo a friend of mine has using the audio mod you made for the NES, but the NES cartridge slot is difficult to pull the games out like many other Famiclones; it seemed to be so easy for you to pull the NES games out, so I was pretty curious.
@Rockoguy what adapter the NES controller with e SNES plug? That's possible because both controllers use the same control chip standard but have a differently shaped plug. It does take rewiring but yeah other than that.....it works well.
If I were to make an SNES-to-NES adapter and an NES-to-SNES adapter for the controllers, would all SNES button functionality be retained if I were to hook them into each other for a longer extender? (I hope the question made sense)
@SatoshiMatrix1 Well I got it as a christmas present so I will say the FC Twin is kinda better than the FC3 plus (probably due to the fact of the controllers).
which revision retroduo did you own? I have the late 2009 revision, and I never had that happen to me. Well, except for when my sister tripped on those short as crap cords, then SMAS battery went bye-bye, and I mean like lost data. But I have other games that have battery-saves in them, and they still work. I'm looking at you Kirby Dream Land 3! XD
I'm a big horror fan and I love games such as Resident Evil, Silent Hill, Haunting Ground. So I bought "Clock Tower" for the SNES. Even though I didn't have a SNES, I went online and didn't want to buy an SNES for close to 70 dollars for just one game, so I came across this RetroDuo for 40 dollars and it got mailed in a few days same with "Clock Tower" and I was very happy that it played the game no problem and the sound on it sounds awesome!!!! Great Retro Console.
or better yet as I mentioned in the video, you could use any OEM controller from Nintendo. When you buy a RetroDuo, remember you must preform the audio dampener mod if you want NES audio to sound correct.
To each their own. Donkey Kong Country 2 is my favorite platformer ever. Castlevania IV/Super Star Wars are action platformers since you're using weapons and not jumping on/running into enemies to defeat them.
I love everything about this console except how it's really hard to pull out the cartridges. Do you think its bad for them?
@Rockoguy The Famicom to NES adapter shown in the video is an official one taken from a Gyromite cart. Only the very first production run Gyromites have the adapter, most don't. All I did was cut the top shell of the cartridge off, used a good amount of glue to hold the adapter in place and there ya go, instant adapter. There are all kinds of commercially available ones too, but I had an extra Gyromite, so why not?
As a general rule, do not buy Hyperkin's clones. The RetroN2 is vastly inferior to the RetroDuo, in both performance and compatibility. The RetroN2 has all sorts of weird problems such as the SNES side being mono only (stereo just provides dual mono).
If you're looking for a clone, I would recommend waiting until the RetroBit Super Retro Trio (SNES,NES, Genesis) is released, or Hyperkin's RetorN5. I plan to cover both to see which is superior, so subscribe, and check back often.
@Skulldeathula9000 I own the original systems as well, but here's a few reasons why I collect clones:
1 The authentic NES is like a vintage car - old & subject to many repairs. I want to go easy on my NES so it lasts for years to come.
2 I find reverse-engineering and technological advances in clones fascinating.
3 I wanted to see how good the Retro Duo's NOAC is. Best I've seen.
4 I can hook up the Retro Duo to a tv other than the one my NES is hooked to.
That's why I collect clones, sir.
Actually, Kid Dracula is only the localized name of the much lower quality original GameBoy port. The Famicom game I show here is Akumajou Special: Boku Dracula-kun! which literally means "Demon House [Castlevania] Special: I'm Dracula!". Boku Dracula-kun has no North American or European NES counterpart. It's a great Megaman-style platformer with Konami's sense of wacky humor that brought us Parodius, especially since you play as Alucard from Castlevania III and Symphony of the Night. Fun game.
I have the second revision, from approximately late 2010. My RD does not have death grips at all.
In 99.9% of cases, it'll be the cartridge. Depending on the maintenance [or lack thereof] over the decades, simply blowing on the cartridge contacts won't always help. I recommend buying a 3.8mm gamebit, opening the cartridge and thoroughly cleaning the cartridge contacts with 90% or higher isopropyl alcohol and cotton swabs. For caked on grime, use a clean eraser.
It's a reproduction of the finished prototype running on a Stunt Race FX donor. It was made by a friend of mine. Fully playable.
European countries use very different electrical standards than North America. The voltage that comes from the wall there is 220v whereas its 110-120v here. Devices intended for 120v would literally be fried if they were fed 220v. Therefore, you need a step down converter. Google the term for more info.
The D-Pad on the Retro Duo tears up my thumbs on fighting games. I'm glad I own real SNES controllers. lol
But I don't have real Snes controller 😞
The RetroDuo is solidly built and doesn't feel cheap at all. The controllers it comes with are junk, but since you can use any real SNES controller, it's a moot point. But sure, if you want to go with the original hardware, then go right ahead. I use my Super Famicom all the time. The RetroDuo is simply a very good alternative for those who want a small system without the giant power brick that has vivid S-Video, plays all NTSC games worldwide and also plays NES games as well.
Yes it does. I'll make it easy for you: If the game is NTSC and was made before 1996, there's a 99.9% chance it'll work on the RetroDuo. If the game is PAL, then change that date to mid 1993.
You don't understand. The NES is completely incapable of producing S-Video. Period. The RetroDuo has S-Video output, but it only applies to the SNES motherboard. However, since the video connections are shared between both the SNES and NES boards, the S-Video line IS connected through the NES board in a roundabout way. Instead of a dead connection, the Luma + Sync line is feed a composite video signal. Different tv types and brands all react differently to S-Video lines that are fed composite.
The info was when the RDP was first released. At time the controllers were not sold separately, but now they are.
Some TVs will not react at all, simply producing a normal composite video through the S-Video plug. Other tvs give distortion, others will not display at all. HDTVs are the most likely not to accept composite signals through S-Video, but again it really varies.
What RitchierocksPokemon forgot to menction about the Retro Duo is you can actually replace the terrible D-Pad with a Super Pad (3rd Party SNES controller) from Performance and make the controller more comfortable which you won't do with the FC Twin (I'm trading my FC Twin for a Retro Duo).
As long as you remember to use a step down converter of course. Your 220v would fry the RetroDuo instantly.
It's not as simple as a plug adapter, you need to ensure you are using a step down transformer as well. The voltage that comes from the wall in the UK will destroy the RetroDuo if not properly adapted. If you need more info, google or go to a electronics store and ask someone about running American electronics on your soil.
Also obviously, the RetroDuo outputs NTSC composite and S-Video signals. you need to use a TV that can run 60Hz NTSC and doesn't only have SCART.
@Timesteel No, it's just SOLD by RetroBit. What they've branded is exactly the Yobo FC Game Console. The same hardware, same shell, same controllers, same power supply, same compatibility issues.
@Rockoguy A guy I know agreed to do the tedious soldering of the 80ish wires. There's a reason they go for around $100 for most people who make them. Star Fox 2 repro's are a huge pain in the ass to make.
The RetroDuo doesn't have reversed duty cycles for NES games, but it does have a distortion unless retrobit fixed that just recently. SNES side should look great in S-Video, so I'd suggest you use that rather than composite.
Yes, all SNES variants SF2 work on the RetroDuo. 99% of US SNES or Japanese Super Famicom games play on clones such as the RetroDuo. Only SA-1 games give trouble. Google for a short list to watch out for.
@nyktharas If you really wanted to, you could replace the d-pad int he Retro Duo pad with one from an actual SNES controller, but like I said in the video, just use real SNES or Super Famicom controllers and leave the ones you get with the Retro Duo in the box.
The Starfox 2 repro was made by a friend who later moved to Alaska. Why would you want to use an NES controller on StarFox 2? It doesn't have enough buttons. Unless you're asking if it will work in the RetroDuo itself, which is the answer is yes.
yup. FYI, you can't do that with anything at all that saves - cartridges, memory cards, even harddrives. Never move ANYTHING that saves when its powered!
sure, its possible to replace the NES pin corrector, if soldering 144 connections sounds appealing to you.
@SuperNovadose That's really strange. Both the SNES and NES controller are based on the 4021 so you shouldn't run into any such issue. The only thing I can figure is that you have bad SNES controllers, or there is some sort of grounding issue. Try borrowing SNES controllers from friends or something. If that doesn't work, run a continuity test with a multimeter. If all else fails, replace the Retro Duo. Your problem isn't typical.
The RetroDuo's NOAC is the best one on the market. The FC Twin's isn't even close.
You are entitled to your opiniom but for SNES, the RetroDuo is such an excellent Super NES clone that with only the most minor of exceptions, it runs exactly like an SNES just with added NES support as well. The debate of original hardware vs clones isn't going anywhere, but if you are looking for a clone, you can't go do much better than the RetroDuo.
Whatever case, make sure you buy an OEM SNES or Super Famiom controller. It'll make a world of difference. I like the newly produced RetroBit Saturn looking pads, but nothing beats the Nintendo made SFC controller in the long run.
The fix is extremely minor, and isn't necessary unless you really care about the NES daughterboard sounding like a real NES. Even without the optional minor fix, the RetroDuo is still better than any other SNES/NES clone on the market.
It's one thing if you have no interest in clones, but saying "you'll pass" because of an optional step that takes less than five minutes and costs under $1 is pretty stupid.
keep in mind you'll need basic soldering skills to build an audio dampener for the NES daghterboard that corrects the system's awful default NES audio output.
at 5:20 , funny how you say that, most of the reviews i heard say that its very hard to get out. hmmmm
I've said it before and I'll say it again: the "RES" is just the same old common NOAC Famiclone previously known as the FC Game Console and before that, NeoFami. That is NOT a good Famiclone.
Generally speaking, the old saying applies to clone systems - you get what you pay for. There's a reason the FC Game Console and its many rebrandings are $15-20 anywhere you look.
it's a secret to everyone! actually, I got it from a friend visiting Japan several years ago. He knew how big a fan I was of the Nintendo Wars games and I sent him some money to pick it up for me.
The answer is yes* for NES and no** for SNES. This is an NTSC System only. *PAL NES games will play, but due to the PAL NES having a slower processor, PAL NES games will play 1.7x faster than they should.
**Nintendo region locked SNES games beginning around 1993. All PAL releases after that will not play on a NTSC system such as this, and all NTSC releases will not play on a PAL system. Prior to that, early PAL games like F-Zero or Super Mario World will play. Mario All Stars is the cutoff.
Yes. Refer to my video review of the RetroGen for more details.
That really depends on what you want/need. The RDP will be more expensive and the non Core versions come with amazing controllers, but the standard RDP does S-Video, has a better NOAC, and can be modded for better NES audio.
You must have an early revision, or a dirty cart. The Retro Duo indeed does play Dragon Warrior.
Yes, it fixes any audio issue of any NES game, including Castlevania 2. if you can't figure out how to do the mod or where to get the parts you need, hire me and I'll do it for a small fee. PM me if you're interested.
I bought a RetroDuo last year, first thing I did was to plug in my Starfox 2 Reproduction cartridge. It worked just fine.
Every other game I own (Including my other Reproductions) all work just fine.
It's your cart. Just give it a thorough cleaning. Watch my "How to clean cartridges properly" video if you are unsure what you need to do to get it clean enough to work. Castlevania 4 definitely works with the RetroDuo.
As long as you can solder the siple audio dampener required to fix the awful sound on the NES daughterbought, the Retro Duo is by far the best Famiclone on the market. The FC Twin as you mentioned is a very poor Famiclone substitute; it can't compare with the RetroDuo at all. It's got a much weaker NOAC that not only preforms worse, but also has incurable sound issues and will play fewer games than the RD will. Get a RetroDuo if you want a Famiclone.
It's a good thought, but ineffective.
The RetroDuo does not run the NES Powerpak whatsoever. Therefore, it can't play Rolling Thunder via the Powerpak any more than it can run the actual cart.
The Super Powerpak does not run games that used any expansion chips beyond DSP1. Super Mario RPG relies on the highly advanced SA-1 coprocessor which the Super Powerpak lacks, so no Powerpak based Mario RPG. Real cart only.
Action 52: Make your selection now.
Satoshi Matrix: No *turns retro duo off*
That was funny, I posted a comment with that reference and it's the popular comment.
@cutemimi25 Stock? a 5 or 6. With the audio dampener? a 9. This is a VERY good clone, probably the best one on the market.
Sorry to hear about your data loss, but a claim that the RetroDuo selectively erases battery-backed SRAM is a completely fictitious statement. What happened was either the battery died, or you wiggled the cartridge while it was powered, which would erase SRAM on a real SNES too. It's fine if you prefer the real hardware to clones, but the RetroDuo does not erase saves. In fact, the RetroDuo is actually safer & more stable running on a constant 5v regulated voltage vs the 9v unregulated original.
@SatoshiMatrix1 Well I got a FC Twin because in the future I will be doing a -comparison between that and the Super Nintendo Mini (SNS-101) to show off some differances on my Senarocksforever channel.
Oh I think there are more than just three, but thank you for the feedback. If you like my stuff, check out my newer content as well. I'm always doing stuff like this and with a better camera now I'm going to be redoing HD versions of my older stuff like this. if you like what you see, subscribe!
I got my Retro Duo on Christmas Eve in the mail surprisingly! I've been playing it a good while and I'm quite happy with it. I definitely took your advice on the Retro Duo Portable and got the newer gamepads they made, and they're far superior. Surprisingly, the sound chip in my NES side doesn't have any off reversed duty cycles and whatnot on my HDTV, which I was very surprised. The only gripe I have is the SNES side's AV composite video, the blacks have strange lines that waver around. :/
Online. There are several retailers, including ebay.
Cleaned it out and now it is working. Thank you so much for your response, you've helped loads!
I know that, I was mentioning that if your old SNES controller breaks down on you (if you only had 1 controller).
Plus I only have 2 nes games (those being Super Mario Bros. 3 & Super Mario Bros, Duck Hunt, & World Class Track Meet on the same cart) and I plan to get it for SNES games because I have like 7 or 8 snes games.
I have a red and black one, I never seen this stainless steel type!
Then you had the inferior RetroDuo 1.0. Thats generally considered to be one of the worst clones out there.
Satoshi Matrix Nope, it's the 3.0, with the fixes
Plus the clones also play japanese games, which widens the depth of any collector's library :)
You need an NTSC compatible tv. PAL is only optional but seeing that you live in the UK I bet it's pretty much a give in that all tvs will be PAL to begin with.
I kinda wish that splitters these days have S-Video ports on them.. it's pretty much a pain switching out the splitter to just put in the S-Video. Also the Retro Duo 3.0 I guess fixed it, or at least the console I got didn't have any problems as with doing the Super Mario Bros. test for its audio, same with The Legend of Zelda.
Hey SatoshiMatrix1
Great Series Of Videos Man, I Always Find Your Vids To Be Very Knowledge-able And Helpfull When I Look For Retro Games, Systems And Accessories. Keep Up The Good Vids! Also, Mind If I Ask Quick Question? You Mention That The Retro Duo Has S-Video Support, But It Won't Work With NES/Famicom Games On Some CRT Tv's, So Then, Will S-Video Work On NES/Famicom Games Using An HD Tv? Or Will S-Video Just Won't Work For NES/Famicom Games Period? No Matter The Tv?
Thanks In Advance!
I had watched this review years ago. I still have a Retro Duo that works great. I don't play it much, due to having the Analogue Super Nt. I highly recommend getting one if you haven't already.
Which one are you recommending? RetroDuo or Super NT? I am getting a RetroDuo but always wondered if the Super NT is worth the pick up.
That's good to know. Thanks for the info.
@SatoshiMatrix1 actually the RES was made by retrobit the company that made this
Close to where I study are some stores where they sell old games and consoles. They sell this too in one of them, so I'll try to buy it if it really works that well.
I also found out with my copy of Super Mario Rpg won't work the normal way on my Retro Duo.
What you have to do is to turn it on to the 8 bit switch for about 3 seconds then quickly turn it to 16 bit position and for some reason it skips the security chip thing and it boots right up.You may have to try this trick a couple times until you get the timing right. Hopefully this works for you.
I did a controller chronicles episode on that controller.
With shipping, around $70.
I don't understand what you're asking. Are you asking if you make an SNES to NES controller and then use an controller extinction cable will that work? The answer is no, unless you modify the controller extension as well.
The RetroDuo is as good of a clone as you can get, so I'd hazard a guess that it does indeed work, but without owning one I can't be absolute certain. The Super Powerpak works, and that's debatably superior anyway.
It depends. Are you only casually interested in retro nes gaming? If so, get a RetroDuo and preform the audio dampener mod yourself or hire me or someone else to do it for you. If you're more hardcore, its best to avoid the toploader NES entirely and get an AV Famicom and a good pin adapter. The AV Famicom is Japanese version of the NES Top loader, and much better hardware for more reasons than youtube comment length will allow.
Again, you must have an early revision of the RetroDuo or a dirty Dragon Warrior 1 cartridge. The NOAC in the RetroDuo does indeed play simpe MMC1 games including Dragon Warrior 1. If you'd like I can make a video response myself to prove it.
That's like asking if you can fix a breakline without popping the hood. You either gotta get your hands dirty and do it yourself, or have someone who knows what they're doing do it for you. I do offer that service if you are interested. PM me.
As long as you use a step down transformer, you'll be able to play all NTSC or PAL NES games, nearly any NTSC SNES game or Japanese Super Famicom game, but only a small handful of PAL SNES games. The Majority of PAL games will not function. At risk of repeating myself, again, you must have a tv that can run NTSC natively. PAL 50 and PAL 60 are NOT supported.
The retro duo controller works on an actual SNES.
Well, now I know why my save data was erased. It was cause the cartridge was wiggled when the system was moved after the controller cord was tripped over. That explains a lot. :D
Its a shame that all these clones don't have better controllers with them. Great review man!
Yeah, it's scary strong. Maybe I need to run a dead cartridge through it a few dozen times to loosen it up?
oh man.. reminds me of the video that vomitsaw did with the Nintoaster Instructional Video. i suppose you lucked out though with your particular build of the Retro Duo in terms of the NES cart slot, makes me jealous haha.
Great, enjoy. just make sure you can preform the simple audio dampener mod. Without it, NES music will sound terrible.
@999chocoboPWN Eh? The "Retro Entertainment System" is just another name for the Yobo FC Game Console, which was one of the first licensed Famiclones out six years ago. I own one of those, and it has the poorest performance of any Famiclone I've ever seen. Reverse audio duty cycles, jailbars, and random glitches even in MMC1 games. It's true it uses the NES 7-pin controller standard, but that's about all it has going for it. You'd be better off with almost any other Famiclone.
k, thank you with ALL the questions i asked and thats what i think i will do. retro duo and retro gen
OEM = original equipment manufacturer. First party. Name brand. official. That kind of thing.
Wait, really? I own quite a number of clones, and the RetroDuo has the least severe "death" grips" of any of them.
Yeah sure, go ahead! I'm a big fan of Retro-Bit. I've also got other reviews of RetroBit products on my channel with pretty high viewcounts.
An snes controller doesnt feel good with NES games? I found it far superior. They're far more comfortable then the original rectangle pads (more similar to the dogbone) and they look awesome. You can also make an adapter to use SNES controllers on authentic hardware, without modding a standard controller. I also though the red and black one looked better then the solver and black one, similar to the one that rinrygamegame has. I also noticed there were vertical lines on the video when you first
I got a retro duo for Christmas its black and red I have some nes and snes games and they all work.
The HDTV has both 16:9 and 4:3 settings. Why did I use it in the video? I have several tvs. The only reason i used this 20" HDTV is because there's no scanlines for my camera to not sync to and thus make look awful for the sake of the video. 9/10 times I play on my 1984 ColorPilot CRT. Check out my other videos to learn more about that amazing amazing tv.
Yeah those. But here's the sad thing about the controllers I got. They ONLY work with the NES side but absolutely REFUSE to work properly on the SNES side at all (like pressing A on the controller is the same function as Start or something, and pressing Y will not function at all).. and what's even worse is I even tried using a real SNES controller for the SNES side of the system, and it behaves the same way. Is something in the system faulty for controllers?
depends on the motherboard. There isn't a single universal answer.
both Lufias are a yes, but EarthBound is a yes*.
EarthBound has an anti-piracy countermeasure that occurs whenever it doesn't make contact witht he system pins of an actual SNES, such as when using a GameGenie, Copy device, or yes, a clone like the RetroDuo. What happens? The game still plays, but all enemies are far more difficult and aggressive, making the game far less fun to play. Read more about this on starmen.net.
I'm hoping to get Pop n' Twinbee SFAM as it was one of the best shooters on SFAM
That'll be expensive. SuFami shmups have shot in price over the years.
Which version of the Retro Duo do you have? Reason I ask is because I was testing a Retro Duo a friend of mine has using the audio mod you made for the NES, but the NES cartridge slot is difficult to pull the games out like many other Famiclones; it seemed to be so easy for you to pull the NES games out, so I was pretty curious.
@Rockoguy what adapter the NES controller with e SNES plug? That's possible because both controllers use the same control chip standard but have a differently shaped plug. It does take rewiring but yeah other than that.....it works well.
If I were to make an SNES-to-NES adapter and an NES-to-SNES adapter for the controllers, would all SNES button functionality be retained if I were to hook them into each other for a longer extender? (I hope the question made sense)
I guess its the straight-man humor. I wasn't trying to make that into a joke at all lol
have you seen the 'super players' snes clone..doesnt play the nes carts but is a really great multi region snes-a-like
@SatoshiMatrix1 Well I got it as a christmas present so I will say the FC Twin is kinda better than the FC3 plus (probably due to the fact of the controllers).
It a very good third party controller, but it'll always be that. Get an OEM Nintendo SNES or Super Famicom controller as well.
which revision retroduo did you own? I have the late 2009 revision, and I never had that happen to me. Well, except for when my sister tripped on those short as crap cords, then SMAS battery went bye-bye, and I mean like lost data. But I have other games that have battery-saves in them, and they still work. I'm looking at you Kirby Dream Land 3! XD