Back to Bits Podcast Episode 18: "Retro Gaming and Collecting in 2020"
New finds and pickups!
John - Game Gear Console Box,
Danny - Astro Boy Omega Factor, Sky Racket (digital)
Main Topic
Starting to collect/play retro games in 2020
Games:
Three kinds of people. Hardcore Collectors and Casual Collectors and those that just want to play
Hardcore: Goes for multiple complete sets in home region (boxed or loose). Money not an option. Goes all out to play consoles on modern displays. Price not an option.
Casual: Might go for a complete set of one or two systems. Does not have to be boxed. Money plays a big part. Could go for imports of high dollar games over home region, uses flashcarts or other means to play backup copies. Plays on CRT/PVM as well as modern TV’s with a budget in mind.
Just wants to play: Uses emulation, mini systems and/or retro game collections on modern systems. Also might have original hardware but doesn't care about best quality. Also may buy some original games.
Buying Games:
Local Retro Store
Ebay (Imports, Fakes)
Facebook Marketplace (buying bulk listings)
Craigslist/Letgo/Offerup
Yard Sales/Thrift Stores
Facebook collector groups
Video Quality:
$ - Retrotink 2x Classic ($90) and Pro ($130) - Affordable. Can use consoles as is (no modding) 480p resolution.
$$ - OSSC (Open Source Scan Converter) $150-$200 - Based on FGPA technology. SCART, VGA and Component input. Will NOT work with an Nintendo N64, Non-RGB modded Nintendo NES, or a NTSC Gamecube unless RGB Modded or use a Retrotink 2X.
$$$$ - Framemeister XRGB-Mini ($375 - $1000) - Cadillac of upscalers. Has Composite, S-Video, Scart and VGA. Can buy D Termal to add Component.
PVM (Professional Video Monitor) - Not all models have BNC in and Out, S-video in and out, Component (not work with all monitors depending on the sync) with the need for BNC adapters. Will work with SCART but requires a custom made SCART to BNC adapter. Some consoles need RGB modded.
Consumer CRT TV’s - Cheap (or free), some have Svideo and Component. No special connection of console modded needed.
Cables:
HD Retrovision Component cables and adapters: High quality with high compatibility.
SCART: Some are better than others. Works with most NA consoles.
OEM Cables: Svideo or composite (what came with the console).
Closing
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