Yeah, although I have a 60 gig PS3 that I need to give a little work to and heck if I'm going to have to re-ball the damn thing anyway I may as well do the fan too and try to keep the thing alive as long as I can.
@@supersoupy4709 that’s understandable because my first ps4 was loud but that ps2 era was an experience from the start up sound to the fan hum etc. (Miss those days)
The PS2 still looks great for being 23 years old. To put that into perspective the PS2 (North America launch) in the same time frame would be like being in the year 2000 looking at a gaming console from 1977.The original members of Lynyrd Skynyrd was still touring 23 years before the launch of the PS2. That's how fast time goes by.
The clear and obvious choice for a new ps2 shell is the translucent ocean blue to match the translucent ocean blue dualshock 2. Also, the Gam3gear Brook Super Converter is a great option for making the ps1/2 wireless. It connects to dualshock 3/4 (my preference is dualshock 3 for battery life), dual sense, pro controller, xbox controller, etc. and has plenty of range to sit as far away as you can while still being able to read text.
If you want some good wireless pads, just use your Dualshock 3 and 4 controllers. Bluetooth adapter with pademu turned on in OPL. It's a good low cost alternative.
@@sos.gamers as far as I know any Bluetooth dongle. Bought one online, plugged it into USB, turned PADEMU on in global settings, plugged Dualshock 3 or 4 into USB and hit the PS button and it synced right up.
Nice mods! I like it being as stock, original as possible. The SSD is definitively my favorite upgrade since heat and noise reduction are so much welcomed. The Retro Fighters controller is also something I'd look into, given that the original Dualshock 2 controllers are also getting old and hard to come by in case you need replacements. As for video quality, I simply use a CRT and a 32" or smaller TV, both with component inputs. Bigger screens usually tend to make the experience lesser without upscalers or converters. And just before I forget: the PS2 has built-in digital audio output, so you can plug any surround bar if you want to improve your audio through the console itself.
@@kevintjeuh8888 because after the DualShock 3, PlayStation controllers no longer have pressure sensitive buttons. PS4 and PS5 controllers don't have them, which may or may not matter to someone.
Great mod! The only thing I did different about my PS2 mod was adding a 3d printed bracket to the inside of the PS2 hard drive slot so the SSD wouldn't hang in there loosely. Other than that, my mod is identical. Has OPL, LaunchElf, all that good stuff. Was just playing Ace Combat Zero the other day as a smooth 60 FPS on the CRT. Good stuff.
This could not have come out at a more perfect time! Because I just finally got a hold of networking, PS2, classic myself, as well as the modem for it. And I was thinking about looking into ways to do exactly what you’re talking about. So once again thank you! You always seem to have impeccable timing with videos pertaining to what I want to do.
Blue retro is also an affordable and low lag solution for pairing a wide range of Bluetooth controllers with retro hardware. Will’s Console Mods is working on a PS1/PS2 dongle for 30 GBP.
There are pros and cons to an SSD on PS2. Pros: Faster transfer rates from PC, Smaller size than HDD; Cons: Some games have been reported to not run well on SSDs (run too fast), Need to buy & bolt in a separate SSD holder for PS2 so that the SSD doesn't flop around loose. I was about to get an SSD for my PS2 until I started hearing about its issues. As for the fan, I'm thinking about doing that some day. Though I will say my PS2 is already running quiet with the OEM fan. You can spray paint the fan black if you want it to match.
I suggest getting a Brook PS2 to PS3/PS4 converter. It will let let you use any dualshock 3 or dualshock 4 and it can sink them by USB connection. It also works for usb wired to controllers and arcade sticks. Plus they work with all PlayStation 1 & 2 converters which will allow you to use your modern stuff on all your retro systems you have a old converter for. I play all my retro fighting and beat'em up games with my modern arcade sticks using it. Lol
For the PS2 you should've looked into the GBS-Control as a scaler. It uses the same deinterlacer as the Retrotink 5x and its something you could build yourself
100% this.. I have the 2x, 2xM, GBS-C AIO, and the RT5X. If you want to save money and get a great image, the GBS-C is the way to go. the 2x series is great but the GBS-C has a much better de-interlacer and higher resolution output options.
I have the Tink5X and the TinkM and an OSSC. In your opinion which one should I use for my PS2? Which one would scale the best and have the cleanest output?
@@brockraybon The 5x is great when you deal in the settings a little according to wobblypixel's PS2 guide for it, I can't speak for the other devices as I don't own those.
The RetroTink is great. The 5x has so much more options. That 4K RetroTink is probably still a couple years out for a production run and the resale value of it should hold up pretty well if you sell it when the 4K comes out.
@@RAHelllord Absolutely. I think people should enjoy their games in whatever way they like that fits their budget and lifestyle, but if you’re trying to get the absolute most out of your image from original hardware, as I think he is, 5x is the way to go. OSSC is also a somewhat cheaper option, but far less user friendly.
Yeah Mike Chi basically hinted that the RT4K is going to be extremely pricey, like in the $1-2K range. I love my 5X, I just wish modern TVs did nearest neighbor 1080p 4X upscaling to 4K.
I used to swear by my slim model ps2 purely because of its compact size. That was until I realized there is a pretty wide spread issue where over time the ribbon cable for the disc drive raises from the glue wearing down and eventually it'll make contact with the underside of your discs. Completely ruining your games by scratching rings into them. I'm now in the market for a fat ps2 model.
There is a controler addon called the wingman that's recently been released for ps2 that will allow for the use of any 3rd or even first party wireless controler including ps3/4 and 5 and also has a USB port so will accept any wired USB controller as well. From what iv seen it looks pretty damn good with even low latency. Price wise it's comparable to your retrofighter controler. Downside is its for the Bluetooth dongle? (that bit that slots into the controler port) only so you would have to provide an additional controler. But for the most part that controler can literally be any Bluetooth or USB wired that already exists on the market. Chances are it will even be compatible with the retrofighter you've just bought as well. My mods aren't as extensive for mine it's just a 500gb sata drive with free mcboot. For my sons it's an mx4sio card and free mcboot. The latter is a great option although one downside is the cost of sd/micro sd cards are comparatively more expensive than a hard drive so the same size sd is going to be orders of magnitude more costly than just using an hdd. It's a more convenient form factor though and can be discreetly packed into a wallet and used in any ps2.
Definitely look into the brook wingman as a controller solution. Let's you use all your wireless Xbox controllers, ps3-5 controllers, and switch too! Even let's you use different usb controllers like fightsticks!
I love having my Noctua and SSD in my PS2. Super stealth and I did the mod where the expansion bay still had Ethernet capabilities so I can connect online for private servers or even some NAS loading.
I am still considering getting a Noctua fan online since they prove to be suuuper silent! I've been bothered by how noisy the fan can be at times when I'm playing games over HDD on my modded PlayStation 2 so I've been wonderin' whether or not I should consider doing it, since the installation process looks anything but straight forward.
The only reason I won't just dive into ps2 games and stop playing new stuff is the lack of a upscaler that works great and doesn't cost half my salary. Emulator is good but the experience on the console is another thing. And that controller seems to be very nice indeed. Great video and if you have more videos related to ps2 and nintendo ds phat model, please do them because even so there's videos of those systems, your opinion and coverage is great!
My PS2 has a 1Tb hard drive. FreeMcboot, HD Retrovision component cable connected to a Framemeister and in to an Mclassic. I also have a Brook adapter to use an official PS3 controller wireless on a PS2 and it includes being able to use the pressure sensitive buttons.
I have the Japanese clear blue PS2 and I love it. Currently looking for a Xbox Halo Special Edition at a good price to complement the transparent aesthetic for my retro game room.
Currently, my PS2 is my Steam Deck. Been diggin it so far. That silent build is pretty sweet. If you could get it upscaled to 1080p or higher that would be friggin sick.
I actually bought a fat PS2 after your first video, and because my local store had a 39000 for 35 bucks with an OG controller in great shape. With the HD Retrovision cable and my Retrotink 5x Pro the picture quality is superb. I also managed to get a cheap original network adapter with ethernet port so I've loaded mine up over network. Took about 16 hours total for nearly 450gb transfer, but at least I didn't have to open up my PC to insert the SSD as I don't have any other way to connect internal drives at the moment. All in all it's a pretty good system and it's been a blast playing it again, and without graphical glitches emulators still have in a few games.
They're well justified when you have more than half a dozen retro consoles and want to play them the in best possible quality on a modern TV. There is a lot of tech in that little box and it all works flawlessly. And the money supports a two people operation directly, I'm more than happy to pay a bit extra for that.
Really wanted to see how an SSD performed with a PS2. Thanks for the video brother. By the way, you're looking really great man. Looking healthy and happy.
Great video! Love being nostalgic about this console and how you upgraded it for today. One thing bugs me is why did you not turn the PlayStation loco around when standing it upright!!! HERACY!
PS2 was the last new console I bought. Got it about a month after release here in the UK. Didn't have it long, went on to PC gaming from there. All these years later though, I do have another PS2 and do still use it.
There is an upgraded fan but another retro reviewer pointed out that the fan is not pulling the correct voltage. Because it didn't use the correct voltage the reviewer wasn't certain the fan was cooling as well as the stock.
Damn if only someone would measure the thermals to test that out. Seriously always this "uhh it might, it could, overheat" from people is so nerve-wracking it's 2022 we should be testing this with thermocouples.
The retro tink 4k will not be available for a long time, at least not until FPGA prices fall. The 5X is going to be what you want, particularly because you get access to the holy grail that is 480p. The 2X does not support 480p which may be why you were having some issues previously
@@jonathansoko1085 you're very bright, you come to a video talking about using a ps2 and You single out a comment taking about getting the best video out of it and go "yeah get a PC instead" Brilliant. You swayed me, let me throw away my ps2 to play the same game on pc through emulation and not stock hardware, eff posterity and let's create additional un-decomposable waste.
Mike’s updates to the 5x have been great. Essential hardware for retro gaming on flat panels. Even when the 4K releases several years from now, the 5x should retain a lot of its value and could be resold to recoup some of the cost of the 4k.
The PS2 is my favorite console of all time. I owned 200+ games for it.. BUT PCSX2 is the way to go now. A moderate computer will run it, you can upscale games to 4k,etc.
I really do love PCSX, but it has had an issue with input delay that they haven't been able to work through. So for games that rely on twitch reactions or precise input timing it nearly as enjoyable compared running on hardware
Moderate computer? There are still games that don't run right on a "High-End" Computer?! Whilst I do agree that PCSX2 is the way forward as you can use some quality of life improvements within the software (Upscaling, Anti Aliasing etc), It still has moments where the Emulation isn't quite up to it (dips and drop outs even on high end machines).
If you want to get rid of the network adapter and get a more stock look, it might be worth looking into the MX4SIO stuff. Haven't looked into it much myself but it uses a custom card that takes an SD/micro SD card that goes in the memory card slot instead of a drive at the back.
I got one of Aliexpress that worked. :) I got a combo, the first slot memory card has the OPL, and the second slot has the SD card. 64GB equates out to over a dozen games, and the bandwidth is higher than the USB (not sure how it compares to the HDD).
Not really an alternative for FAT models. Good for slim ones, but MX4SIO loads stuff way slower than HDD. Of course it's faster than USB, but HDD is way, way faster.
I got some MX4SIOs because I actually wanted to use the network adapter for LAN with friends (one PS2 on my retro gaming trinitron, the other on my flat panel). Still probably gonna have the fake adapter with a big HDD for all the singleplayer games though, cheaper and more reliable I imagine.
Don’t know why people are so concerned about fan noise. So long as it works, it can sound like a jet engine and I’d happy. White noise is soothing and I can always pop a pair of headphones on if I must
Dreamcast is interesting. I really only know of an ODE for that. I know Xbox has options for SSDs, but not much else. GameCube is one I’m more invested in and I imagine that would be a Picoboot DOL-001 with something like an EON, SD2SP2, custom purple case with a Spawnwave jewel, and then Wavebirds (since the Retro Fighters wireless GC controller is still delayed 😢). Definitely would love to see his choices, though.
I don't get why everybody (especially those from the PS1 and PS2 era) feel the need for upgrading the graphics, resolution and frame rate so badly and can't apprechiate the flaws as something that is similar to the good old crackle of a vinyl. I got the DuckStation now to run PS1 games and yes, you can get vast "improvements" out of it, but it kills all the charme and nostalgia for me, so I leave everything on default settings to get the true PS1 experience. Especially the dithering did it for me. The makers had certain things in mind how they tweaked the limited possibilities of rendering back then, so body models would "take shape" a certain way when the aliasing hit and textures were "improved" to fit the low resolution CRTVs with their dot matrix to make for a "pleasing" look. I know we are spoiled today with graphics, but I really think that cranking up the graphics with apps like DuckStation is a cool thing but over-smoothens everything, so it looks sterile and empty. Damn you can play a PS1 game in more than 4K resolution which blows my mind. But it just doesn't do it for the old games. It's like being able to enjoy a good modern and powerfully compressed major label song in maximum modern quality, but a nice 70's kick drum sound or the quality of recording tape clipping is just unmatched and like a good wine. Maybe I am alone with this opinion.
My experience with the ps2: # Video input solution: i recommend getting 2 hdmi cables 1- is an RGB 720p upscaler because it looks best with all the games that doesn't support 480p so it is great for 480i games (i recommend levelhike because it supports ps1 games too) 2- second upscaler is kaico hdmi for it only sends the component signals through hdmi so it doesn't upscale the games and offers the use of progressive scan # Controller solutions: 1- brook converter for it is great to use ps4 or ps5 controller on ps2 2- retro fighter is a great controller but bad at fighting games # should i use SSD or HDD? 1- HDD is the better choice because i noticed some games run worse than being installed on SSD, not sure why but i think the high speeds are beyond the existence of the ps2 Also 128MB memory card and an authentic memory card for some games like Genji doesn't recognise the third party's memory card
It’s either that or GameCube for me. I’d need to do some soul searching to make that decision. Overall, the 6th generation is the best. 8th+ hasn’t felt as innovative to me other than pushing frame rate and graphics. It’s cool but just feels more reliant on hardware advancement over creativity.
@@Fireshot844 it was more capable hardware and the library for GameCube was good but the list of games on Playstation 2 was great and is still the best on any Playstation platform also cheep DVD player
@@kierenbuckley370 as far as breadth, PS2 has it. Nintendo is carried by the first party games as always but many Sony exclusives fall flat for me. I mostly turn mine on for Tales and .hack. If I was being objective, I won’t deny a PS2 is a better deal; but being opinionated, I’m split.
@@Fireshot844 The thing is when you include things like the breadth of import titles it's no contest. The PS2 far and away had the greatest and most varied library of any console of that generation and since. Both Xbox and GameCube had some really good stuff especially GameCube but PS2 it was just overwhelming.
Legit, the PS2 in general was the console and still has an amazing library of games including import stuff. We haven't seen a console with the variety of the PS2 since and I don't think we ever will again.
Normally I'd recommend those getting one specifically for the PS2 to get the 2x Pro Multi-Format instead though I'm unsure if Mike Chi is still selling them. Regardless the regular 2x Pro is still not a bad buy for PS2 considering how many games are limited to 480i anyway.
Yeah I think the slim had colors like white and silver that were more prevalent I don't really remember any significant color variants here in the US for the fat PS2.
I know this is an old video but I'm doing a ps2 upgrade build like this and was wondering will Samsung evo870 work as well? The one from this video is little expensive for me.
I had my PS2 since 2002, and had a hard drive with HD Loader in it since about 2004 or 2005. I skipped out on the PS3 and 360 until 2010, so my PS2 really saw some use with the HDD. Having all of the games in there at the press of a button has been so good that I kind of miss it when my PS4, Switch and X1 games aren't digital to this day. I need to go pull it out and play some games on it again during the times when all my friends and family are asleep. Seeing these videos are making me want to upgrade it the same way. I still need a scaler since I don't have my CRTs anymore (broke during winter in storage).
Personally, I hope Mike Chi releases the 5X for individual consoles like he did with the Rad2X. I know he was talking about it, but now all I hear is the 4K option.
I have to admit this is getting me excited to do the same I remember seeing these fat PS2's everywhere before the pandemic I bet they're all snatched up now. Luckily I got at least one dirt cheap so that will probably be the one I go with.
i was amazed how clear the video is. when i tryed to record my ps2 screen with obs via hdmi converter, and hdmi splitter, that caused an extreme screen break in obs, that i had to lower the max fps to 30. intrestingly enough, the tv screen is allright.
Loved my ps2 i think i have the most hours played on that sony system then any other playstation system. It also was the era where i had friends to come over and play a game with me.
U should try it again. I got 2 friends coming over a couple of times each month.We run a full champioship season on WRC 4 and we are really having fun. Eventhough, we all own newer consoles and many WRC games ,we still havent found any rally to support offline multiplayer. Really sad. * I run PS2 On a 46 inches FHD tv connected through composite!! I havent even bought a component cable yet and we all satisfied by the result. As for sound...Simply amazing!! ( how come ps2 sound quality in most games is so good, i really dont know. )
I would sometimes recommend decals to just completely cover up the PS2 shell if all else fails. I mostly did that for a lot of my systems because I'm going for a red & black Devil May Cry theme.
I only really mind decals when the system is glossy and covered in tons of second hand scratches, and even then I've only ever used solid color ones. The ones with designs all over them are pretty tacky looking.
I'm sure someone else said has said this already, but the Retrotink 2x pro doesn't support anything above 480i. That's why the OPL trick of playing games in a higher resolution didn't work.
One thing you forget to mention is just how hard it is to find third party controllers with pressure sensitive buttons lol. It was essential for the PS2
I did the same set of upgrades for mine last year, but added a 3d printed SSD bracket as well, topped off with the Defender. I also have one of the Blue Retro adapters that works great with a Dualshock4 on PS2! Like others here, I'd also recommend the RT5x Pro. The motion adaptive de-interlacing is fantastic. Though totally understandable if you'd want to skip it if the PS2 is your only system going through it.
Got a 60gb PS3 and haven't looked back to my PS2 since. I upgraded my HDD, PSU to a 226 model, new 19 blade fan, and new thermal paste with a hen mod to keep fans around 50% with temp surveillance. I love that i can play 5 generations of PlayStation games with my PS5 and fat PS3. long live PlayStation
SSD upgrade does make a difference in terms of load times; I use an SD adaptor myself and games feel much better to play loading via it vs. disc. I had a bad experience with the analogue stick calibration with the Retro Fighters Defender and thought the plastic quality was on the cheap side. Ended up replacing with the Brook Wingman adaptor which has better calibration (but still not perfect). Be careful when looking at replacement shells as there were many motherboard revisions of the fat PS2 and most of the special edition consoles are 5000x systems whilst yours is a 39001
Good to know that about the Retro FIghters controller. I'm using a knockoff wired Chinese one with the shapes all doubled up. It works okay but has issues with button input at times. Heard the SSDs have some issues playing some games (run too fast).
@@zero9112 Even if bottlenecked, an SSD is better for multiple reasons, and it should still overall be faster than an HDD because it doesn't have to seek before it can read and load, so even if milliseconds or seconds it's faster just because of that. Even if it's maximum read speed is the same as the HDD.
you also have to consider the capabilities of the weak chips and the bandwidth of the ide connection it's using. It might improve you're right, it might even be noticeable. But I can tell you right now it's not going to be a lot
There will be zero difference by using an SSD. The load times for everything will be exactly the same as a regular HDD because the console was built for IDE connections which are even more ancient than modern SATA HDDs. Plus, these SSDs wear out much quicker, the only real benefit of them is that the console won't be as heavy, especially if you go for NVMe. Wrath of Cortex (Greatest Hits or Platinum versions) will take 6 seconds to load the levels from the internal storage. Save money and go for a 2.5 inch hard drive, just make sure it's stable inside and not shaky.
4:35 Yes, the seeks are actually VERY noticeable in some cases! The HDD-OSD is one of these cases, especially when it has many games installed. PS.BBN also boots faster.
I was lucky enough to find an unopened ps2 controller at my local game store. The dude said it had fallen behind the rack and sat there for YEARS before they had found it that weekend and put it out for sale. So now I have a brand new controller and I had forgotten how good they feel new.
Hard drive noises have never bothered me honestly. Fan noises don't much either... But I would consider putting a new Noctua fan into a PS2. My PS2 is in storage, If it wasn't these videos would motivate me to upgrade my old PS2!
Personally I find the fan noise and disk drive to be relaxing and nostalgic
Too true, that ambient noise was welcoming after a long school day
same , doesn't bother me
Yeah, although I have a 60 gig PS3 that I need to give a little work to and heck if I'm going to have to re-ball the damn thing anyway I may as well do the fan too and try to keep the thing alive as long as I can.
yeah it’s kinda funny. especially because i was so quick to give up the ps4 and it’s fan noise lol
@@supersoupy4709 that’s understandable because my first ps4 was loud but that ps2 era was an experience from the start up sound to the fan hum etc. (Miss those days)
The PS2 still looks great for being 23 years old. To put that into perspective the PS2 (North America launch) in the same time frame would be like being in the year 2000 looking at a gaming console from 1977.The original members of Lynyrd Skynyrd was still touring 23 years before the launch of the PS2. That's how fast time goes by.
Ok
@@Fusion991 Ok
Ok cool
@@MakerManX Ok Cool
Can look good all it wants, graphic are trash now lol
These are GREAT videos. I love to see old consoles getting refurbished and upgraded and customized. Keep bringing us all this content please.
I have a question does ps2 fat need adapter or it can work with wire normaly
The clear and obvious choice for a new ps2 shell is the translucent ocean blue to match the translucent ocean blue dualshock 2. Also, the Gam3gear Brook Super Converter is a great option for making the ps1/2 wireless. It connects to dualshock 3/4 (my preference is dualshock 3 for battery life), dual sense, pro controller, xbox controller, etc. and has plenty of range to sit as far away as you can while still being able to read text.
If you want some good wireless pads, just use your Dualshock 3 and 4 controllers. Bluetooth adapter with pademu turned on in OPL. It's a good low cost alternative.
any bluetooth adapter? do you know a good tutorial?
@@sos.gamers as far as I know any Bluetooth dongle. Bought one online, plugged it into USB, turned PADEMU on in global settings, plugged Dualshock 3 or 4 into USB and hit the PS button and it synced right up.
@@davidgill7412 thats really good to know! thanks i will try that latter then
i recently bought a stock ps2 and i love it so much but this could actually improve my experience, thank you so much
I was bored at work so…
1:27- Noctua Fan.
4:09- SSD.
5:47- RetroTink.
9:42- Defender Controller.
Thanks 🙏 man much appreciated
Pin this comment to the top please!
Thank you!
@@saionteller9427 No problem. You’re welcome.
Nice mods! I like it being as stock, original as possible. The SSD is definitively my favorite upgrade since heat and noise reduction are so much welcomed. The Retro Fighters controller is also something I'd look into, given that the original Dualshock 2 controllers are also getting old and hard to come by in case you need replacements. As for video quality, I simply use a CRT and a 32" or smaller TV, both with component inputs. Bigger screens usually tend to make the experience lesser without upscalers or converters. And just before I forget: the PS2 has built-in digital audio output, so you can plug any surround bar if you want to improve your audio through the console itself.
Does the controller have pressure sensitive buttons?
@@BIGNOIDS Yes, John mentions this feature.
Why not use a ps4 controller with opl and a bleutooth stick, it works out of the box for years on opl, no need for a third party controller
I wish therw was a wired version of the retro fighter controller. I've heard it sometimes misregisters button presses
@@kevintjeuh8888 because after the DualShock 3, PlayStation controllers no longer have pressure sensitive buttons. PS4 and PS5 controllers don't have them, which may or may not matter to someone.
glad to finally see you check out some of the retrotink stuff.
Great mod! The only thing I did different about my PS2 mod was adding a 3d printed bracket to the inside of the PS2 hard drive slot so the SSD wouldn't hang in there loosely.
Other than that, my mod is identical. Has OPL, LaunchElf, all that good stuff. Was just playing Ace Combat Zero the other day as a smooth 60 FPS on the CRT. Good stuff.
Does Ace Combat Zero usually run slower?
@@zachtwilightwindwaker596 Nope! It's always been 60 FPS on the PS2. This includes AC4 and AC5, too.
@@PixelPhoenix where did you get the bracket?
@@alkalinezero Probably a regular 3.5 to 2.5 or maybe a custom one
@@alkalinezero You can get them for a few dollars on either Amazon or Ebay.
This could not have come out at a more perfect time! Because I just finally got a hold of networking, PS2, classic myself, as well as the modem for it. And I was thinking about looking into ways to do exactly what you’re talking about. So once again thank you! You always seem to have impeccable timing with videos pertaining to what I want to do.
Blue retro is also an affordable and low lag solution for pairing a wide range of Bluetooth controllers with retro hardware. Will’s Console Mods is working on a PS1/PS2 dongle for 30 GBP.
I like these reviews and upgrades to older systems.
There are pros and cons to an SSD on PS2. Pros: Faster transfer rates from PC, Smaller size than HDD; Cons: Some games have been reported to not run well on SSDs (run too fast), Need to buy & bolt in a separate SSD holder for PS2 so that the SSD doesn't flop around loose. I was about to get an SSD for my PS2 until I started hearing about its issues.
As for the fan, I'm thinking about doing that some day. Though I will say my PS2 is already running quiet with the OEM fan. You can spray paint the fan black if you want it to match.
I suggest getting a Brook PS2 to PS3/PS4 converter. It will let let you use any dualshock 3 or dualshock 4 and it can sink them by USB connection. It also works for usb wired to controllers and arcade sticks. Plus they work with all PlayStation 1 & 2 converters which will allow you to use your modern stuff on all your retro systems you have a old converter for. I play all my retro fighting and beat'em up games with my modern arcade sticks using it. Lol
Last time I was this early I was walking out of GameStop with the launch PS3.
Camped outside of bestbuy for that 60GB PHAT
@@Crono454 the struggle was real.
@@cfreddykrueger9164 It was almost 2 days and 3 nights, and I wasn't even in the first like 10 ppl. LOL
@@cfreddykrueger9164 I lost sleep trying to get a PS5.
For the PS2 you should've looked into the GBS-Control as a scaler. It uses the same deinterlacer as the Retrotink 5x and its something you could build yourself
100% this.. I have the 2x, 2xM, GBS-C AIO, and the RT5X. If you want to save money and get a great image, the GBS-C is the way to go. the 2x series is great but the GBS-C has a much better de-interlacer and higher resolution output options.
I have the Tink5X and the TinkM and an OSSC. In your opinion which one should I use for my PS2? Which one would scale the best and have the cleanest output?
@@brockraybon The 5x is great when you deal in the settings a little according to wobblypixel's PS2 guide for it, I can't speak for the other devices as I don't own those.
@@brockraybon Use the 5x. The ossc doesn't handle interlaced that well and the majority of ps2 titles are 480i
@@brockraybon 5x for sure. 1440p and the Adaptive deinterlace is awesome. You also get to upscale the 480p PS2 games.
that defender controller is awesome, I waited a long time for that to come out
I'd like to think it was my comment that got you going on this.Good on you for refreshing it. 👍🏻
The RetroTink is great. The 5x has so much more options. That 4K RetroTink is probably still a couple years out for a production run and the resale value of it should hold up pretty well if you sell it when the 4K comes out.
Probably, though the 5x does have a pretty significant price tag that may be better spent elsewhere if it's not that important to someone.
@@RAHelllord Absolutely. I think people should enjoy their games in whatever way they like that fits their budget and lifestyle, but if you’re trying to get the absolute most out of your image from original hardware, as I think he is, 5x is the way to go. OSSC is also a somewhat cheaper option, but far less user friendly.
Yeah Mike Chi basically hinted that the RT4K is going to be extremely pricey, like in the $1-2K range. I love my 5X, I just wish modern TVs did nearest neighbor 1080p 4X upscaling to 4K.
I think I would go with the 2x at this point for how little I would use it- I use a mini for my n64, snes, and nes- and it is fine -
the most economic option tho is just an ossc plus the upcoming ps2 hdmi mod
That’s controlled is legit, I’m gonna buy a few for my ps3 and PS2 when I upgrade it thanks! I’m gonna start my project soon!
I used to swear by my slim model ps2 purely because of its compact size. That was until I realized there is a pretty wide spread issue where over time the ribbon cable for the disc drive raises from the glue wearing down and eventually it'll make contact with the underside of your discs. Completely ruining your games by scratching rings into them.
I'm now in the market for a fat ps2 model.
There is a controler addon called the wingman that's recently been released for ps2 that will allow for the use of any 3rd or even first party wireless controler including ps3/4 and 5 and also has a USB port so will accept any wired USB controller as well. From what iv seen it looks pretty damn good with even low latency. Price wise it's comparable to your retrofighter controler. Downside is its for the Bluetooth dongle? (that bit that slots into the controler port) only so you would have to provide an additional controler. But for the most part that controler can literally be any Bluetooth or USB wired that already exists on the market. Chances are it will even be compatible with the retrofighter you've just bought as well. My mods aren't as extensive for mine it's just a 500gb sata drive with free mcboot. For my sons it's an mx4sio card and free mcboot. The latter is a great option although one downside is the cost of sd/micro sd cards are comparatively more expensive than a hard drive so the same size sd is going to be orders of magnitude more costly than just using an hdd. It's a more convenient form factor though and can be discreetly packed into a wallet and used in any ps2.
I have been waiting to do the exact same thing. So glad I watched this because the controller was my hold up.
Definitely look into the brook wingman as a controller solution. Let's you use all your wireless Xbox controllers, ps3-5 controllers, and switch too! Even let's you use different usb controllers like fightsticks!
That Retro controller actually looked really nice. Like the buttons a lot
I love having my Noctua and SSD in my PS2. Super stealth and I did the mod where the expansion bay still had Ethernet capabilities so I can connect online for private servers or even some NAS loading.
I am still considering getting a Noctua fan online since they prove to be suuuper silent! I've been bothered by how noisy the fan can be at times when I'm playing games over HDD on my modded PlayStation 2 so I've been wonderin' whether or not I should consider doing it, since the installation process looks anything but straight forward.
So, the PS2 also has fan servers like the Game Cube?
Same, replaced the ide connection with a sata connector
what games have fan servers?
@@wowwowwow7139 I think Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II has one.
The only reason I won't just dive into ps2 games and stop playing new stuff is the lack of a upscaler that works great and doesn't cost half my salary.
Emulator is good but the experience on the console is another thing. And that controller seems to be very nice indeed.
Great video and if you have more videos related to ps2 and nintendo ds phat model, please do them because even so there's videos of those systems, your opinion and coverage is great!
I mean the best of both worlds is just emulate on your pc and play with a controller lol.
Get a CRT lol
My PS2 has a 1Tb hard drive. FreeMcboot, HD Retrovision component cable connected to a Framemeister and in to an Mclassic. I also have a Brook adapter to use an official PS3 controller wireless on a PS2 and it includes being able to use the pressure sensitive buttons.
Talk about painting the outhouse 🤣🤣🤣
@@OneManPowerTrip ¿?¿?
2024 gamers “The ps2 looks like shit”, same player goes and plays roblox and minecraft 😑.
I have the Japanese clear blue PS2 and I love it. Currently looking for a Xbox Halo Special Edition at a good price to complement the transparent aesthetic for my retro game room.
Sweet bro
I got a Xbox halo edition
Does anyone know what the game at 8:34 is? I remember playing, back in the day, but I can't remember what the bloody name of it is!
The fan and disc noise brings so much memories back, sometimes I turn on my PS2 just yo hear the sound of the fan.
Get help.
Currently, my PS2 is my Steam Deck.
Been diggin it so far.
That silent build is pretty sweet. If you could get it upscaled to 1080p or higher that would be friggin sick.
Depends on what you’re playing on too, if you’re on an oled tv it looks amazing
8:33 How I wish we had a remake of Maximo games!
The art style would be awesome on Nintendo Switch.
Yeah I do wish we got both those games moved to at least to the PS4/PS5.
I also wish final fight StreetWise hadn't killed any chance for a third game.
I actually bought a fat PS2 after your first video, and because my local store had a 39000 for 35 bucks with an OG controller in great shape. With the HD Retrovision cable and my Retrotink 5x Pro the picture quality is superb. I also managed to get a cheap original network adapter with ethernet port so I've loaded mine up over network. Took about 16 hours total for nearly 450gb transfer, but at least I didn't have to open up my PC to insert the SSD as I don't have any other way to connect internal drives at the moment.
All in all it's a pretty good system and it's been a blast playing it again, and without graphical glitches emulators still have in a few games.
$300 SMH nope
They're well justified when you have more than half a dozen retro consoles and want to play them the in best possible quality on a modern TV. There is a lot of tech in that little box and it all works flawlessly. And the money supports a two people operation directly, I'm more than happy to pay a bit extra for that.
Really wanted to see how an SSD performed with a PS2.
Thanks for the video brother.
By the way, you're looking really great man. Looking healthy and happy.
HD Retrovision components connected to my big old Sony Trinitron looks absolutely stunning.
Great video! Love being nostalgic about this console and how you upgraded it for today. One thing bugs me is why did you not turn the PlayStation loco around when standing it upright!!! HERACY!
PS2 was the last new console I bought. Got it about a month after release here in the UK. Didn't have it long, went on to PC gaming from there. All these years later though, I do have another PS2 and do still use it.
Isn't there an upgraded fan that goes inside just like the original but it's quiet instead of using the external looking thing?
Possibly but I didn’t care about installing the Noctua since I already have the SSD installed that sticks out
There is an upgraded fan but another retro reviewer pointed out that the fan is not pulling the correct voltage. Because it didn't use the correct voltage the reviewer wasn't certain the fan was cooling as well as the stock.
@@lordfinbar I’ve seen that same criticism come up with the Noctua mod since it’s a 12v fan operating off of the 5v socket on the board iirc.
Damn if only someone would measure the thermals to test that out.
Seriously always this "uhh it might, it could, overheat" from people is so nerve-wracking it's 2022 we should be testing this with thermocouples.
There needs to be a multiplayer xlink community using these upgraded ps2s
The retro tink 4k will not be available for a long time, at least not until FPGA prices fall. The 5X is going to be what you want, particularly because you get access to the holy grail that is 480p. The 2X does not support 480p which may be why you were having some issues previously
or you can just grow up and get on a pc and not worry about any of that
@@jonathansoko1085 you’re fun at parties
@@jonathansoko1085 you're very bright, you come to a video talking about using a ps2 and You single out a comment taking about getting the best video out of it and go "yeah get a PC instead"
Brilliant. You swayed me, let me throw away my ps2 to play the same game on pc through emulation and not stock hardware, eff posterity and let's create additional un-decomposable waste.
@@jonathansoko1085 douche alert, code 9
Mike’s updates to the 5x have been great. Essential hardware for retro gaming on flat panels. Even when the 4K releases several years from now, the 5x should retain a lot of its value and could be resold to recoup some of the cost of the 4k.
The 5x looks great on my 4k, it’s a must have! 🍻
There are kits that let you use an SD card instead. Probably a better choice if you looking for a quiter system and don't want to spend on an ssd.
Loading from SD card is very slow and fmv stutters like crazy from my experience. HDD or SSD load and run games perfectly.
Great video man
The PS2 is my favorite console of all time. I owned 200+ games for it.. BUT PCSX2 is the way to go now. A moderate computer will run it, you can upscale games to 4k,etc.
I really do love PCSX, but it has had an issue with input delay that they haven't been able to work through. So for games that rely on twitch reactions or precise input timing it nearly as enjoyable compared running on hardware
Moderate computer?
There are still games that don't run right on a "High-End" Computer?!
Whilst I do agree that PCSX2 is the way forward as you can use some quality of life improvements within the software (Upscaling, Anti Aliasing etc), It still has moments where the Emulation isn't quite up to it (dips and drop outs even on high end machines).
Sadly stuntman still doesn't run
How about guitar hero games?
@@FrattaTV guitar hero games run ok the audience looks all pixelated but other then that it runs ok was playing guitar hero 3 the other day
Thanks!
If you want to get rid of the network adapter and get a more stock look, it might be worth looking into the MX4SIO stuff. Haven't looked into it much myself but it uses a custom card that takes an SD/micro SD card that goes in the memory card slot instead of a drive at the back.
Mine doesn't work unfortunately.
I got one of Aliexpress that worked. :) I got a combo, the first slot memory card has the OPL, and the second slot has the SD card. 64GB equates out to over a dozen games, and the bandwidth is higher than the USB (not sure how it compares to the HDD).
@@CAJames902 it’s about the same. Haven’t really noticed a difference myself
Not really an alternative for FAT models. Good for slim ones, but MX4SIO loads stuff way slower than HDD. Of course it's faster than USB, but HDD is way, way faster.
I got some MX4SIOs because I actually wanted to use the network adapter for LAN with friends (one PS2 on my retro gaming trinitron, the other on my flat panel).
Still probably gonna have the fake adapter with a big HDD for all the singleplayer games though, cheaper and more reliable I imagine.
Don’t know why people are so concerned about fan noise. So long as it works, it can sound like a jet engine and I’d happy. White noise is soothing and I can always pop a pair of headphones on if I must
Do this video but for the other sixth gen consoles (dreamcast, xbox, GC)
Dreamcast is interesting. I really only know of an ODE for that. I know Xbox has options for SSDs, but not much else. GameCube is one I’m more invested in and I imagine that would be a Picoboot DOL-001 with something like an EON, SD2SP2, custom purple case with a Spawnwave jewel, and then Wavebirds (since the Retro Fighters wireless GC controller is still delayed 😢). Definitely would love to see his choices, though.
Still love how the ps2 looks still one of my favourite designs
I don't get why everybody (especially those from the PS1 and PS2 era) feel the need for upgrading the graphics, resolution and frame rate so badly and can't apprechiate the flaws as something that is similar to the good old crackle of a vinyl.
I got the DuckStation now to run PS1 games and yes, you can get vast "improvements" out of it, but it kills all the charme and nostalgia for me, so I leave everything on default settings to get the true PS1 experience. Especially the dithering did it for me. The makers had certain things in mind how they tweaked the limited possibilities of rendering back then, so body models would "take shape" a certain way when the aliasing hit and textures were "improved" to fit the low resolution CRTVs with their dot matrix to make for a "pleasing" look. I know we are spoiled today with graphics, but I really think that cranking up the graphics with apps like DuckStation is a cool thing but over-smoothens everything, so it looks sterile and empty. Damn you can play a PS1 game in more than 4K resolution which blows my mind. But it just doesn't do it for the old games.
It's like being able to enjoy a good modern and powerfully compressed major label song in maximum modern quality, but a nice 70's kick drum sound or the quality of recording tape clipping is just unmatched and like a good wine. Maybe I am alone with this opinion.
My experience with the ps2:
# Video input solution: i recommend getting 2 hdmi cables
1- is an RGB 720p upscaler because it looks best with all the games that doesn't support 480p so it is great for 480i games (i recommend levelhike because it supports ps1 games too)
2- second upscaler is kaico hdmi for it only sends the component signals through hdmi so it doesn't upscale the games and offers the use of progressive scan
# Controller solutions:
1- brook converter for it is great to use ps4 or ps5 controller on ps2
2- retro fighter is a great controller but bad at fighting games
# should i use SSD or HDD?
1- HDD is the better choice because i noticed some games run worse than being installed on SSD, not sure why but i think the high speeds are beyond the existence of the ps2
Also 128MB memory card and an authentic memory card for some games like Genji doesn't recognise the third party's memory card
the PS2 is still the greatest game console of all time to me the library of games is so good
Facts
It’s either that or GameCube for me. I’d need to do some soul searching to make that decision. Overall, the 6th generation is the best. 8th+ hasn’t felt as innovative to me other than pushing frame rate and graphics. It’s cool but just feels more reliant on hardware advancement over creativity.
@@Fireshot844 it was more capable hardware and the library for GameCube was good but the list of games on Playstation 2 was great and is still the best on any Playstation platform also cheep DVD player
@@kierenbuckley370 as far as breadth, PS2 has it. Nintendo is carried by the first party games as always but many Sony exclusives fall flat for me. I mostly turn mine on for Tales and .hack. If I was being objective, I won’t deny a PS2 is a better deal; but being opinionated, I’m split.
@@Fireshot844
The thing is when you include things like the breadth of import titles it's no contest. The PS2 far and away had the greatest and most varied library of any console of that generation and since. Both Xbox and GameCube had some really good stuff especially GameCube but PS2 it was just overwhelming.
Using a retro think here w/ a mclassic and component cables. Yeap. Pretty awesome. Good video. Very tempted to do the nocturnal fan mod.
The goat of consoles. Still.
Legit, the PS2 in general was the console and still has an amazing library of games including import stuff. We haven't seen a console with the variety of the PS2 since and I don't think we ever will again.
The Retrotink 2X Pro only supports up to 240p/480i, by the way. No 480p passthrough. It still looks fantastic though, I love mine.
Normally I'd recommend those getting one specifically for the PS2 to get the 2x Pro Multi-Format instead though I'm unsure if Mike Chi is still selling them.
Regardless the regular 2x Pro is still not a bad buy for PS2 considering how many games are limited to 480i anyway.
most PS2 in other colors were Japan Exclusive at the time
in the west I can actually only remember the silver one next to the regular black one
I wish the Ocean blue PS2 came to the west. It is beautiful.
Yeah I think the slim had colors like white and silver that were more prevalent I don't really remember any significant color variants here in the US for the fat PS2.
Iirc the Automotive ones were released in the west too
Mike Chi of RetroTink is the real life God Hand. I have a 5x, am anxiously waiting for him to come out with the next RetroTink 🙌🙌🙌
The best wireless controller for the PS2 is the Dualshock 3. If you're using OPL all you need is a cheap USB Bluetooth adapter and you're ready to go
I know this is an old video but I'm doing a ps2 upgrade build like this and was wondering will Samsung evo870 work as well? The one from this video is little expensive for me.
😎 Tech Wave 🌊
I had my PS2 since 2002, and had a hard drive with HD Loader in it since about 2004 or 2005. I skipped out on the PS3 and 360 until 2010, so my PS2 really saw some use with the HDD. Having all of the games in there at the press of a button has been so good that I kind of miss it when my PS4, Switch and X1 games aren't digital to this day. I need to go pull it out and play some games on it again during the times when all my friends and family are asleep.
Seeing these videos are making me want to upgrade it the same way. I still need a scaler since I don't have my CRTs anymore (broke during winter in storage).
Personally, I hope Mike Chi releases the 5X for individual consoles like he did with the Rad2X. I know he was talking about it, but now all I hear is the 4K option.
For wireless controllers I use a Brook adapter which pairs with a Dualshock 4 wirelessly. Works with both PS2 and PS1.
Works with opl to, just with a bleutooth stick in the usb port
I have to admit this is getting me excited to do the same I remember seeing these fat PS2's everywhere before the pandemic I bet they're all snatched up now. Luckily I got at least one dirt cheap so that will probably be the one I go with.
Exactly. I got mine like 3 months before pandemic as a bundle for like 40 dollars. Included two memory cards and controllers
i was amazed how clear the video is.
when i tryed to record my ps2 screen with obs via hdmi converter, and hdmi splitter, that caused an extreme screen break in obs, that i had to lower the max fps to 30. intrestingly enough, the tv screen is allright.
I use the gbs-c for upscaling. You need to do some mods to it and use the custom firmware but its great for the price.
Loved my ps2 i think i have the most hours played on that sony system then any other playstation system. It also was the era where i had friends to come over and play a game with me.
U should try it again. I got 2 friends coming over a couple of times each month.We run a full champioship season on WRC 4 and we are really having fun. Eventhough, we all own newer consoles and many WRC games ,we still havent found any rally to support offline multiplayer. Really sad.
* I run PS2 On a 46 inches FHD tv connected through composite!! I havent even bought a component cable yet and we all satisfied by the result. As for sound...Simply amazing!! ( how come ps2 sound quality in most games is so good, i really dont know. )
I would sometimes recommend decals to just completely cover up the PS2 shell if all else fails. I mostly did that for a lot of my systems because I'm going for a red & black Devil May Cry theme.
Decals are the lamest thing to do lmao. Worse than 3rd party fans.
Only problem is if the case has bad dents in it, the decal might not cover it up well.
I only really mind decals when the system is glossy and covered in tons of second hand scratches, and even then I've only ever used solid color ones. The ones with designs all over them are pretty tacky looking.
@@ians_parks Not the Marble ones.
@@kaguscon No they're not I'd rather decorate my consoles then have them be plain looking.
I'm sure someone else said has said this already, but the Retrotink 2x pro doesn't support anything above 480i. That's why the OPL trick of playing games in a higher resolution didn't work.
One thing you forget to mention is just how hard it is to find third party controllers with pressure sensitive buttons lol. It was essential for the PS2
I think the ps3 controllers also have this feature. In my opinion, with Bluetooth adapter it's best option to play ps2 wirelessly.
@@23.shkola.63-t7i That's right, it did. I never had a PS3 so I don't know how much use it got. Shame it never caught on
Good for you on your projects.
Wish we could get a remake of God Hand.
I purchased a Brook adapter that works with PS3 and PS4 controllers. Super cool tech!
I did the same set of upgrades for mine last year, but added a 3d printed SSD bracket as well, topped off with the Defender. I also have one of the Blue Retro adapters that works great with a Dualshock4 on PS2! Like others here, I'd also recommend the RT5x Pro. The motion adaptive de-interlacing is fantastic. Though totally understandable if you'd want to skip it if the PS2 is your only system going through it.
Where did you get the stl? Definitely need this in mine.
@@FormulaSumo I don’t have a 3D printer, so I bought it on Amazon when I picked up the same Noctua fan mod.
bro you've looks-maxxed a lot since i last watched your channel. good for you man
The Defender Controller seems nice, but you could also have used "PADEMU" in OPL and a USB BT Dongle and a DS3/DS4.
Yup this is pretty much my setup apart from a Retrotink 5x and 1TB instead of a 500gb. Just got a Defender in today. Pretty fantastic.
so, mr. spawn wave - what title is getting the most play now that you've built this futuristic ps2 beefcake?
Got a 60gb PS3 and haven't looked back to my PS2 since. I upgraded my HDD, PSU to a 226 model, new 19 blade fan, and new thermal paste with a hen mod to keep fans around 50% with temp surveillance. I love that i can play 5 generations of PlayStation games with my PS5 and fat PS3. long live PlayStation
SSD upgrade does make a difference in terms of load times; I use an SD adaptor myself and games feel much better to play loading via it vs. disc.
I had a bad experience with the analogue stick calibration with the Retro Fighters Defender and thought the plastic quality was on the cheap side. Ended up replacing with the Brook Wingman adaptor which has better calibration (but still not perfect).
Be careful when looking at replacement shells as there were many motherboard revisions of the fat PS2 and most of the special edition consoles are 5000x systems whilst yours is a 39001
Good to know that about the Retro FIghters controller. I'm using a knockoff wired Chinese one with the shapes all doubled up. It works okay but has issues with button input at times. Heard the SSDs have some issues playing some games (run too fast).
Spawnwave was talking about SSD vs. HDD, not Disc laser. SSD is bottlenecked to the PS2 chipset.
@@zero9112 Even if bottlenecked, an SSD is better for multiple reasons, and it should still overall be faster than an HDD because it doesn't have to seek before it can read and load, so even if milliseconds or seconds it's faster just because of that. Even if it's maximum read speed is the same as the HDD.
You can literally print, or bend from metal strip a fan bracket, that keeps the fan INSIDE the case.
Those wireless defender ps pads are great, got mine a few weeks back and I've been playing Suikoden 4 with it and it feels great.
Crash Bandicoot the Wrath of Cortex had crazy long loading times. I think that game would actually benefit from the SSD
you also have to consider the capabilities of the weak chips and the bandwidth of the ide connection it's using. It might improve you're right, it might even be noticeable. But I can tell you right now it's not going to be a lot
There will be zero difference by using an SSD. The load times for everything will be exactly the same as a regular HDD because the console was built for IDE connections which are even more ancient than modern SATA HDDs. Plus, these SSDs wear out much quicker, the only real benefit of them is that the console won't be as heavy, especially if you go for NVMe.
Wrath of Cortex (Greatest Hits or Platinum versions) will take 6 seconds to load the levels from the internal storage.
Save money and go for a 2.5 inch hard drive, just make sure it's stable inside and not shaky.
The load times are fast on the greatest hits version
4:35 Yes, the seeks are actually VERY noticeable in some cases! The HDD-OSD is one of these cases, especially when it has many games installed.
PS.BBN also boots faster.
Hey y’all
You are outdoing Austin Evans with his “Ultimate” builds. Well done!
First watch your videos all the time
I wish there were either affiliate links or just regular links to all these upgrades so the were easier to find & buy.
First
I'm so glad you invested in the Retrotink! That old HDMI adapter you were useing in the first part looked absolutely dreadful!
Drop a link for that controller? I haven't been able to find a decent replacement controller.
I was lucky enough to find an unopened ps2 controller at my local game store. The dude said it had fallen behind the rack and sat there for YEARS before they had found it that weekend and put it out for sale. So now I have a brand new controller and I had forgotten how good they feel new.
Those NFL2k5 replays are gonna be so smooth.
Why did you stop putting links to the items you used for these in the description?
Hard drive noises have never bothered me honestly. Fan noises don't much either... But I would consider putting a new Noctua fan into a PS2.
My PS2 is in storage, If it wasn't these videos would motivate me to upgrade my old PS2!
The retrotink 4k isn’t coming out for another 18 months / 2 years lol. Might not wanna wait especially when the tink 5x has VRR and HDR.
Bruh why am I suddenly finding so many fit, good looking tech nerds on youtube lately lmao stark difference from 5 years ago