Duo or SuperGrafx

[Addicted]

I'm new to the forums and could use some help.

I own a PCE DUO and a TG16 but they are connected to my CRT and I would like to add something to my LCD TV setup.

I'm thinking another PCE/CD combo, maybe a DUO-R or a briefcase combo but the SuperGrafx also seems interesting. Any suggestions?

[Necromancer]

Welcome Aboard!

Are you going to have it RGB modded and use something like a Framemeister to upscale to the LCD?  If so, I'd invest in a modded Duo (any version, cheapest deal you can find) rather than spend so much money on a CD-less SGX.  If you're going to stick with composite, a SGX wouldn't be a bad idea, though it's quite a bit of extra cost to gain access to only a few games.

[Addicted]

Thanks! I'm looking forward to learning more about the PC Engine/TG16 here.

I plan to purchase a Framemeister this summer as I currently use one of those generic SCART to HDMI upscalers. The lag is terrible but it works for now. I sent my current DUO out for RGB modification and recapping last year so I could use that. It's currently hooked up to the CRT using a SCART to YUV converter.

I'm stuck trying to decide between new experience vs backup system. As you stated a SGX wouldn't give me access to a lot my games, but having a backup DUO in case my current one breaks or when the DUO is in use also seems like a good idea. It's sort of a dumb problem to have. 

[Pokun]

Is your LCD in place that makes it hard to just move the Duo over? Personally I'd rather go for new experience when I buy a new console, but yeah the SGX is very expensive for what it is.

[MNKyDeth]

SGFX + ACD + SCD2 allows all games available to be played. However....

SGFX = 5 games
ACD = (not sure how many but another small hand full but more then the SGFX has)

Finding ones in good shape along with a Super CD-Rom 2 that is also in good shape is usually the hardest part. Don't mod the SGFX, mod the Super CD-Rom 2 if that is the route you go. Modding a SGFX imo is a bit of a waste of money unless you plan on only playing carts.

[Pokun]

Yeah both SGX and Super CD-ROM² are large and expensive.

I'm also thinking of getting a Super Grafx but since I have a fine Duo R already I'm covered for CD games. The Ten no Koe 2 works on the Super Grafx without the ROM² Adapter right? That seems to be the cheapest way to add BRAM if you don't go the CD route.

The only thing that would require a SGX + CD setup is if someone makes a CD game that requires the SGX hardware.

[Addicted]

@Pokun: I wouldn't take a lot of effort to move it, but I'm worried about my DUO breaking. It was in bad shape before I had it serviced. The caps had leaked and eaten away at a trace. I've found so many great games that I love to play on my DUO that it would be troublesome if my DUO died. I thought about buying the dock and SCD2 for the TG16 but I can buy a DUO for that much. The SGX is expensive but might be worth it.

@MNKyDeth: Thanks for your help. A SGFX + ACD + SCD2 sounds great but I'm guessing it would cost around $550 plus games. It seems that trying out the 5 SGFX only games will help me decide. I'll also have to review the Gamesack episode.  Will a SGX work with a dbGrafx Booster TTP?

[Pokun]

I guess it should work, although I heard that there may be some differences in the SGX expansion port, not sure.

But since it connects to the expansion port you can't use CD or BRAM with it. It makes more sense to add RGB output to the CD/BRAM unit like MNKyDeth said.

[Bardoly]

Welcome to Pcenginefx!

[Keith Courage]

Bardoly! Where have you been? Haven't seen a post from you for a while.

Addicted, welcome aboard. I'd go with either a briefcase setup or regular black DUO. Maybe base the decision on which one you do not currently own. So that would be a pc engine CD briefcase setup. I actively work on refurbishing and selling both of these types of setups. If you end up deciding to go with one or the other let me know.

[gex]

I plan to purchase a Framemeister this summer

I heard somewhere that the Company that manufactures these is discontinuing production. Not to start untrue rumors, but it might be worth looking up

[Addicted]

@Bardoly: Thanks!

@Keith Courage: If I decide on another DUO you will be the first to know. I'm familiar with your work as you recapped and RGB modded my DUO.  Thanks!   

@gex: You are correct. One of the chips they use has been discontinued. Micomsoft the makers of the Framemeister bought up as much of the chip as they could before production was ended. There should be enough to make a year to a year and a half supply.

This video covers the issue:

To elaborate I'm trying to build out a couple places to play games in the basement.  This picture is a couple years old but it gives a general idea. The DUO is hooked up to the CRT and running cables to the HDTV would be a bit of a pain. Thanks to everyone for the ideas and help. 

[Bardoly]

Bardoly! Where have you been? Haven't seen a post from you for a while.

Oh, here and there.  About the last half of last year, I was mostly in this thread.  We sure could have used your help...   :-"