Which Model Of Sega Genesis is Best?
I'm in the market for a Genesis. I had no idea there were three models! I only had the Genesis 2 growing up. Are there any differences I should know about before I make a choice? Whats the general consensus? Are they all compatible with the 32x attachment? I'm also hoping to get the CD attachment sometime soon. Thanks, and sorry for the barrage of questions!
Posted Feb 6, 2019, 3:12 AM UTC
314
The model 1 and 2 consoles are compatible with both 32x and the Sega CD. The 3 is not (though apparently you can mod it to work with the 32x).
The 3 also does not work with the master system converter.
As for the best Genesis model - it is not very simple.
Even within each body style (original and 2 anyway), there are several variants with different chipsets.
The primary difference between them is the sound quality you get, but real aficionados will tell you video quality can vary quite a bit too.
In general, the original model is considered best. The stereo output (headphone jack) on the front is a big benefit.
A quick way to select an original model with the optimal chipset is to find one with the “High Definition Graphics” label around the cartridge port and with the “ext” port on the back.
There’s a rundown here
I’m not a purist, so I kind of prefer the model 2, which is smaller and fits better with the second model of Sega CD (the side by side version) which is the one I have. As with the model 1, there are variants of the model 2 also, with some regarded as better or worse in sound and video quality.
Here’s another good resource for you to check out.
The 3 is kind of crap, btw. There are some games it’s not compatible with (Virtua Racer, I think) and really it’s only benefit is small size.
Good luck!
Maybe you can help me? I'm from the United States and I've only ever known it as the Sega Genesis. But whenever I hear people from Europe talk about Sega, they always talk about the Master System. I tried Googling it and only got more confused.
Well, the Genesis was called the MegaDrive everywhere but the US, so that might be what you’re hearing.
The Master System was the system Sega released before the Genesis. It competed with the original NES. It was very popular in some markets but didn’t do that well here in the US (though it really has some terrific games).
The Genesis/MegaDrive has an accessory called the Power Base Converter that lets you play Master System games on your Genesis. There are also some 3rd party versions of the converter sold today. I don’t have one so I can’t really speak to how well they work.
Does that help?
Good luck!
It does help! Thank you! I had no idea Sega had another system before the Genesis either. That's just crazy to me
Well then you’ll love learning about the SG-1000!
I believe that was what they called the Genesis overseas, but I may be wrong.
Master System was one of the Sega systems before the Genesis. It came out in the US in '86. MegaDrive was the name of the Genesis outside of North America (I think there was some issue with the trademark in the US?)
Ohhh, that makes sense. I'm gonna need to look into some Master System games now.
Wow, this is a lot of great info, thanks! I almost went for the 3 since the price point was much cheaper and it'd look nice next to my SNS-101. Looks like I'll be looking for a model 1 with the High Def label.
Cool. Good luck. It’s a great system with a lot of great games.
Enjoy it!!