JAPJAC`s Capcom Power System CHANGER - Definitive Resource:

JAPJAC · 04/20/2009, 07:42 AM

Capcom Power System CHANGER-The Definitive On-line Resource:

By JAPJAC.

1994`s Capcom Power System CHANGER is the rarest officially released to the public modern Japanese consumer TV-Game system in the World. Ever.

JAPJAC`s TFP Fanitsu Capcom Power System CHANGER Definitive Resource is the first extensive and only competent expose in English on-line is here!

Includes complete release details for the format, comparisons to the Neo Geo and SuperGun formats, the first You Tube video for the system ever, the first You Tube video showing a game for the system running and the first and only You Tube video of the system running a CPS II game fully.

Also includes, an in depth interview, the most and the highest of quality images ever to be published on-line covering everything for the format, a complete guide to the 'CPS' Silicon Hardware Ranges and finally, details of JAPJAC's Capcom Power System CHANGER feature as printed in Retro Gamer magazine. The first and only such feature printed in English, in the World. In shops now!!!:

'JAPJAC is the leading English-speaking expert on the Capcom Power System CHANGER.'
Retro Gamer magazine.

(Under the TFP Features section):

Enjoy:

Cheers,

JAPJAC.

termis · 04/20/2009, 09:35 AM

Wow. Pretty cool. I never knew these things existed.

You learn something new every day.

NecroPhile · 04/20/2009, 12:05 PM

Never heard of that thing before, so thanks for sharing. I'm not surprised it failed, considering it had all the cost of an AES but without the quantity/variety of games and without the good looks. Not only was the game selection a bit sparse, but they were years old in the arcades by the time they were released, with some already available for a year (or more) as decent home ports on other consoles.

Joe Redifer · 04/20/2009, 02:25 PM

Thanks for showing that, but I wish the video was more informative. It barely shows any gameplay. I would have liked to hear how the system actually sounded instead of some random rap song. Maybe some direct feed gameplay instead of a camera pointing at the screen for part 2?

guyjin · 04/20/2009, 05:20 PM

Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/20/2009, 07:42 AMEnjoy:
Cheers.

Nice video.

Horrible soundtrack.

SNKNostalgia · 04/28/2009, 06:12 PM

I remember hearing about this in 1997 on the internet. When CPS-2 emulation wasn't cracked yet, people used the Power System version of SF Alpha 1 and it had not as good sound as the CPS-2 version. It was a neat concept since I really welcome arcade quality consoles like the Neo Geo. The fact that it came out in 94 is wild though. I would have loved to play Final Fight on it, but the Sega CD version satisfied me well

.

Tatsujin · 04/29/2009, 02:31 AM

great system, where half you games are supposed to die purposely after certain years.

SignOfZeta · 04/29/2009, 01:06 PM

Quote from: Tatsujin on 04/29/2009, 02:31 AMgreat system, where half you games are supposed to die purposely after certain years.

Really? I always assumed that since the CP Changer version of SFZ was dumped way before the CPS2 version that they must not have been using the same suicide-prone encryption scheme.

Turbo D · 04/29/2009, 03:16 PM

That is a pretty cool contraption; How much did it cost? Too much for my wallet probably, heh. However, I am known to spend a lot of money on systems that only play a few capcom games (cough*SuperGrafx*cought*). hehe. So, do the capcom home games really commit suicide? Do not they know that suicide is not the answer? So does the Capcom Power System Changer have unique carts (err, giant board thingies), or does it just use cps boards from arcade cabs?

NecroPhile · 04/29/2009, 04:36 PM

Quote from: turbo D on 04/29/2009, 03:16 PMSo does the Capcom Power System Changer have unique carts (err, giant board thingies), or does it just use cps boards from arcade cabs?

Both - they're standard CPS boards in a plastic shell (like CPS II).

JAPJAC · 04/30/2009, 11:17 AM

Download: RetroGamer_084.pdf

Retro Gamer Issue 84

England's retro GAMER magazine published by Imagine Publishing is the leading monthly retro gaming publication (in English) in the World. This article as featured in issue 84, is one that I pitched, provided all the information for, as well as the images used and being the subject for interview. This issue is now out of circulation so the following is the copy used.

'Page 56 - 57 - Obscura Machina: Capcom Power System CHANGER
Even we hadn't heard of this particular console before

YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO FORGOTTEN GAME SYSTEMS

OBSCURA MACHINA

#2 Capcom Power System CHANGER

Damien McFerran uncovers the story behind Capcom's relatively unknown answer to the Neo Geo AES, and possibly the rarest Japanese home console of all time

Back in the early Nineties, home consoles were often judged on their ability to replicate the incredible performance of arcade hardware - then the benchmark for videogame technology. Machines like the NEC's PC Engine, Sega's Mega Drive and Nintendo's Super Famicom all provided a reasonably authentic experience, but it was SNK's Neo Geo AES that first brought the true coin-op spectacle to the home – albeit at a price that few gamers could realistically afford. SNK wasn't the only company that adopted this strategy, although it is arguably the most famous.

Astonishingly, industry stalwart Capcom also released a domestic version of its then popular coin-op platform range - the Capcom Play System (or CPS for short) – and this machine was blessed with pixel-perfect editions of the company's most renowned hits. Even more amazing is the fact that is console is almost entirely unknown outside of hardcore collecting circles, despite hosting games such as Final Fight and Street Fighter': Hyper Fighting.
The Capcom Power System CHANGER was released in Japan in 1994 and allowed gamers to enjoy cutting-edge arcade titles in the comfort of their own home. Like the Neo Geo AES, the CPS CHANGER library consisted of coin-op titles that had been re-tooled for home use. "CPS CHANGER games obviously have no coin support," explains J A Cullen, originally from Fleet, Hampshire, but now a full-time Tokyo resident and arguably the leading English-speaking expert on the system. "Games can be paused, they have a software reset feature from controller button inputs, a setup configuration and sound test menu available also from controller button inputs at any point in-game." They system's unusual physical appearance has led some so-called experts to dismiss the CPS CHANGER as nothing more than a Capcom-branded Super Gun, a charge that Cullen refutes. "This system is a consumer product in every way and was intended as such," he comments. "It was marketed to consumers and the console and games were specific to the home environment, as opposed to the commercial one. What was offered would be impossible to operate in any arcade."

However, with a little bit of tinkering the CPS CHANGER can be convinced to run standard JAMMA arcade boards - and this fact is probably the reason why so many uneducated types deem it to be a Super Gun rival. "The CPS CHANGER was purposely not configured to play the standard JAMMA configuration properly, and that coupled with its physical shape meant attempting to do so was troublesome," elaborates Cullen. "This was done by Capcom to reinforce the concept that this was a home machine only. However, I had a custom JAMMA+ loom professionally made that allows my CPS CHANGER to play most JAMMA+ PCBs perfectly. This should be considered as a bonus for owners."

Compared to the AES, the CPS CHANGER represented surprisingly good value for money, with the system costing around ¥10,000 (£80) less than SNK's console. Software was also, on the whole, less expensive. There was also the disparity in quality to consider. "Capcom's Play System hardware family of games were arguably superior to SNK's own Neo Geo MVS releases in every genre – take the difference between Burning Fight and Final Fight as an example," states Cullen. "The CPS CHANGER's Final Fight is still the only arcade-exact home TV-game version available." Despite the obvious benefits of the machine, it wasn't a bestseller, although Capcom's decision to distribute it exclusively via mail order only suggests that the company wasn't necessarily looking to beat NEC, Sega, Nintendo and SNK at their own game.

The story of the CPS CHANGER is undeniably intriguing, but just how hard is it to purchase a system today? A seasoned grey importer since the days of the PC Engine and Mega Drive, Cullen's quest to own this most elite of consoles is worthy of a feature in itself. "Upon contacting England's usual grey import companies back in 1994, it transpired that they couldn't get any stock for love nor money because it wasn't available through their usual supply chain." he recalls. "It was quickly forgotten by the press and grey importers forever. My desire for ownership never faded and thankfully I finally got an immaculate and complete 'Triple Set' a decade later thanks to some contacts at Capcom Japan. To be honest, the term 'rare' doesn't even come close. I've been game shopping in Tokyo's Akihabara on a monthly basis for close to a decade now and I've never seen one or any of its games for sale over the counter there."

"Only 13 games (including the SFII': Hyper Fighting pack-in) were advertised to order from Capcom for this system, and there is not one known case of a complete CPS CHANGER hardware and software collection existing anywhere in the world privately-at least to my knowledge. Such a collection would surely smash all records easily if put up for sale. I only know of two other English-speaking owners-ownership now is an insanely exclusive club to be in."

So there you have it. Many of you reading this feature will probably never have heard of this elusive piece of Japanese hardware, and only the most dedicated and resourceful of individuals will ever get to actually play it. In retro collecting terms, it rests comfortably in the upper echelons. "Forget such things as the Neo Geo AES, the Super Famicom SF-1s, the PC Engine LT, the PC Engine Duo with it colour 4.3-inch monitor, the Marty 1 & 2 or the Car Marty from the same era," says Cullen. "The CPS CHANGER is the rarest officially released Japanese consumer TV-game system in the world. Ever."

JUST THE FACTS

The Capcom Power Stick Fighter Cordless Adapter allowed the CPS CHANGER to be controlled with the Capcom Power Stick Fighter joysticks via infrared.

The machine was only available direct from Capcom Japan via mail order, and was never officially sold in videogame shops.

The system was available to order from two sets. The Triple Set - which consisted of the CPS CHANGER, Power Stick Fighter and Street Fighter II': Hyper Fighting cost ¥39,800, while the Double Set (CPS CHANGER with Street Fighter II': Hyper Fighting) was ¥34,800.

13 games were released in total, with a technically watered down conversion of the CPS II game Street Fighter Alpha being the final release.

The machine uses Super Famicom controllers.

Like many Japanese consoles, the CPS CHANGER does not support an RGB signal out of the box, but can be modified to do so.

The CPS CHANGER can play most JAMMA+ arcade boards with the use of a correctly made custom loom.

The first 11 games could be ordered at a discount if purchased in bulk. A single title would cost ¥20,000, with three games totalling ¥55,000.

The three Capcom arcade formats represented on the CPS CHANGER were CPS (AKA: CPS-1), CPS (Dash) and CPS II.

The machine was supported by Capcom from 1994 to around 1996.

The Capcom Power Stick Fighter is considered one of the best controllers for the CPS CHANGER system:

This flyer shows the various CPS CHANGER packages that could be ordered direct from Capcom Japan:

Power Stick Fighter Cordless Adapter in all its glory:

PERFECT THREE

FINAL FIGHT

Arguably the most influential scrolling beat-'em-up in videogame history, Final Fight has been converted to multiple formats but this remains the most authentic version available for a home console.

CAPTAIN COMMANDO

Another classic Capcom scrolling brawler, this futuristic title boasts gorgeous graphics, inventive enemies and a baby in a robot suit as a playable character. What more could you ask for?

SFII': HYPER FIGHTING

Released at a time when your average gamer would gladly sell a kidney for a truly arcade-perfect version of Capcom's famous one-on-one fighter, this was arguably the CPS CHANGER's killer app.

Thanks go to J A Cullen for providing exclusive photographs of his own private collection and taking the time to answer questions for this feature.'

NecroPhile · 04/30/2009, 12:00 PM

Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 11:17 AMThey are NOT just standard CPS-1 boards but in plastic housings. The Capcom Power System Changer uses CPS-C boards, specifically designed for the home only. This is a home Capcom console with home Capcom console games released for it.

Various intrawebz sites led me to believe that they were standard boards with an interface card in a plastic housing, but I have no first hand knowledge and am perfectly willing to concede the point. Have you opened any games? If so, what was different between it and its arcade counterpart? The console itself has no 'brains' (meaning that each CPS-C board would have to have the same components as the standard CPS board), so it's odd that they'd completely redesign their boards just to sell them to the home market.

JAPJAC · 04/30/2009, 12:10 PM

Quote
Quote from: Turbo D on 04/29/2009, 03:16 PMSo does the Capcom Power System Changer have unique carts (err, giant board thingies), or does it just use cps boards from arcade cabs?
Both - they're standard CPS boards in a plastic shell (like CPS II).

They are NOT just standard CPS-1 boards but in plastic housings. The Capcom Power System Changer uses CPS-C boards, specifically designed for the home only. This is a home Capcom console with home Capcom console games released for it.

Quote from: guestHave you opened any games? If so, what was different between it and its arcade counterpart? The console itself has no "brains"; (meaning that each CPS-C board would have to have the same components as the standard CPS board), so it's odd that they'd completely redesign their boards just to sell them to the home market.

If the Capcom Power System Changer has no `brains` it could then be possible to play everything arcade no? CPS-1, CPS-2 and CPS-3 just from Capcom`s line alone. The system is not called a Capcom Power System 1 Changer. It doesn`t have to share anything with only CPS-1 technology.

The titles RELEASED for the Capcom Power System Changer were based on mainly CPS-1 technology for the most part yes but they are not indentical.

How many commercial PCB`s do you know of that can be paused? Watch my video again please. That is just one difference.

A system to which ownership truly measures a Japanese TV-Game collectors worth.

Why then did the Capcom Power System Changer only last for such a short time? That remains a mystery to me and something that only old hands at Capcom Japan could answer and certainly not an internet educated, non-owning pundits.

Quote from: guestSo what is in the CPSC, besides encoders for video and controllers; all of the game logic processing is still done within the "cartridge", isn't it? Your video description clearly states that it is indeed capable of running other JAMMA boards, so I'm not exactly sure what point you're trying to make.

It is capable but not designed by the makers to play JAMMA boards. How would one register a credit as the Capcom Power System Changer doesn`t have a credit button for example. Not all boards have a test button or indeed a free play option.

Quote
Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 09:45 PMCPS-1`s Street Fighter II` Turbo can not be paused, CPS-C`s Street Fighter II` Turbo can. The hardware for both is almost the same but still different and the games are quite different, the latter title has a different ending.
How is the hardware different? Keep in mind that pause, different endings, and the like are software related, not hardware. That said, I'm also interested to know what you mean by the games being 'quite different'. Were the sprites redrawn, recolored, or animated differently? Were the backgrounds changed? What about some of the other titles? Please don't take these questions as a rebuff of your assertions; I'm honestly curious.

Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 09:45 PMI am glad that you find me owning this system amusing. I find anyone that has posted 4635 posts on one message board quite sad in contrast.
Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 09:45 PMDon`t get frustrated little man. I have and will attempt to answer any questions you have.
Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 12:10 PMIf the Capcom Power System Changer has no `brains` it could then be possible to play everything arcade no? CPS-1, CPS-2 and CPS-3 just from Capcom`s line alone. The system is not called a Capcom Power System 1 Changer. It doesn`t have to share anything with only CPS-1 technology.
So what is in the CPSC, besides encoders for video and controllers; all of the game logic processing is still done within the 'cartridge', isn't it? Your video description clearly states that it is indeed capable of running other JAMMA boards, so I'm not exactly sure what point you're trying to make.

Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 12:10 PMThe titles RELEASED for the Capcom Power System Changer were based on mainly CPS-1 technology for the most part yes but they are not indentical.
What major physical differences are there then? I suspect very few, as there was little reason for Capcom to re-engineer a board just to put it in a case.

Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 12:10 PMHow many commercial PCB`s do you know of that can be paused? Watch my video again please. That is just one difference.
What does 'pause' have to do with hardware? The pause feature could be coded into any game.

QuoteA system to which ownership truly measures a Japanese TV-Game collectors worth.
I'm glad you joined this forum (among many others) just to flout your awesomeness. If you want to pat yourself on the back and show how cool you are just because you own this console, go right ahead, I won't try to stop you. I will however laugh.

QuoteWhy then did the Capcom Power System Changer only last for such a short time? That remains a mystery to me and something that only old hands at Capcom Japan could answer and certainly not an internet educated, non-owning pundits.
Go get 'em, tiger!

NecroPhile · 04/30/2009, 12:59 PM

Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 12:10 PMIf the Capcom Power System Changer has no `brains` it could then be possible to play everything arcade no? CPS-1, CPS-2 and CPS-3 just from Capcom`s line alone. The system is not called a Capcom Power System 1 Changer. It doesn`t have to share anything with only CPS-1 technology.

So what is in the CPSC, besides encoders for video and controllers; all of the game logic processing is still done within the 'cartridge', isn't it? Your video description clearly states that it is indeed capable of running other JAMMA boards, so I'm not exactly sure what point you're trying to make.

Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 12:10 PMThe titles RELEASED for the Capcom Power System Changer were based on mainly CPS-1 technology for the most part yes but they are not indentical.

What major physical differences are there then? I suspect very few, as there was little reason for Capcom to re-engineer a board just to put it in a case.

Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 12:10 PMHow many commercial PCB`s do you know of that can be paused? Watch my video again please. That is just one difference.

What does 'pause' have to do with hardware? The pause feature could be coded into any game.

QuoteA system to which ownership truly measures a Japanese TV-Game collectors worth.

I'm glad you joined this forum (among many others) just to flout your awesomeness. If you want to pat yourself on the back and show how cool you are just because you own this console, go right ahead, I won't try to stop you. I will however laugh.

QuoteWhy then did the Capcom Power System Changer only last for such a short time? That remains a mystery to me and something that only old hands at Capcom Japan could answer and certainly not an internet educated, non-owning pundits.

Go get 'em, tiger!

JAPJAC · 04/30/2009, 09:45 PM

Damien McFerran and JAPJAC's Capcom Power System CHANGER print feature (appears in the December 2010, issue 84, of Retro Gamer magazine):

(Retro Gamer Issue 84 - Christmas Special - Made private)
youtu.be/MyHWGWEjF_4

https://www.pcengine-fx.com/downloads/RetroGamer_084.pdf

I believe this to be the FIRST feature in print on the system in English in the World, ever.

Out now!

Cheers.

SignOfZeta · 05/01/2009, 02:42 AM

This video is a nice contribution to the gaming community. It just goes to show you that even a complete asshole can do something good.

"A system to which ownership truly measures a Japanese TV-Game collectors worth."

Jeez, that's one of this most pathetic thing's I've ever read. I mean, its one thing to imply such a thing, but to actually say it. Wow. Your mental processes are all out of wack. Seriously.

"A truly wonderful piece of kit."

Well, its nice and all, but in all seriousness its not that great. An actual super gun is way better. You don't have to use those shitty sticks, you get RGB without hacking, and you have access to every game ever released for the Changer as well as every other JAMMA board. I have no idea what one of these oddities goes for, but you could probably get a Raijin for that kind of money. I think that same line of reasoning is probably why they didn't feel like supporting it very long. I mean, Japan has entire stores full of 100s of JAMMA boards for good prices. The Changer seems to have been designed to bridge the gap between a JAMMA collector and a SFC owner and obviously that market just didn't exist.

Tatsujin · 05/01/2009, 03:10 AM

good barked there SoZ.

but don't you forget about the extra "Pause"-function the Changer is able to do (at least for some of the few available games), which a normal Super Gun can't. a huge advantage and total Super Gun killer application.

NecroPhile · 05/01/2009, 11:16 AM

Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 09:45 PMIt is capable but not designed by the makers to play JAMMA boards. How would one register a credit as the Capcom Power System Changer doesn`t have a credit button for example. Not all boards have a test button or indeed a free play option.

I don't claim to know everything about arcade boards, but aren't these functions accessed through the JAMMA connector? My point being that the CPS-C boards could be identical to the CPS-1 boards, and only the ROM has been modified.

Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 09:45 PMCPS-1`s Street Fighter II` Turbo can not be paused, CPS-C`s Street Fighter II` Turbo can. The hardware for both is almost the same but still different and the games are quite different, the latter title has a different ending.

How is the hardware different? Keep in mind that pause, different endings, and the like are software related, not hardware. That said, I'm also interested to know what you mean by the games being 'quite different'. Were the sprites redrawn, recolored, or animated differently? Were the backgrounds changed? What about some of the other titles? Please don't take these questions as a rebuff of your assertions; I'm honestly curious.

Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 09:45 PMI am glad that you find me owning this system amusing. I find anyone that has posted 4635 posts on one message board quite sad in contrast.

You got me, stud. If only I could be as cool as you and join a bunch of different forums, pimp a half worthless video that shows very little of the hardware and even less of the actual games, and then respond to questions with condescension instead of answers.

Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 09:45 PMDon`t get frustrated little man. I have and will attempt to answer any questions you have.

You have yet to properly answer a single one of my questions, yet I'm not frustrated over your silly attitude and failure of a console.

guyjin · 05/01/2009, 12:20 PM

I think this thread needs to be moved to fighting street.

NecroPhile · 05/01/2009, 12:35 PM

Quote from: guyjin on 05/01/2009, 12:20 PMI think this thread needs to be moved to fighting street.

Why? It's on topic and 99% civil.

guyjin · 05/01/2009, 12:46 PM

Quote from: guest on 05/01/2009, 12:35 PM
Quote from: guyjin on 05/01/2009, 12:20 PMI think this thread needs to be moved to fighting street.
Why? It's on topic and 99% civil.

'cuz I want blood, dammit!

SnowKitty · 05/01/2009, 03:19 PM

Quote from: Tatsujin on 04/29/2009, 02:31 AMgreat system, where half you games are supposed to die purposely after certain years.

actually, they removed that protection for the CPS changer games. the CPS1 wiki page has more info on that:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CP_System

JAPJAC · 12/04/2010, 07:54 PM

.

blueraven · 12/05/2010, 04:11 AM

ummmmm.......

What the F@Rk exactly is JAPJAC`s Capcom Power System CHANGER? I'm hella confused, and not normally so; the videos don't explain anything!

Rete0gamer fuck yeah! great mag. What is JAPJAC?!?!? other than a screenname...

I concur with NecroPhile's previous assessment of this post. What exactly is this?

SPAM.

SignOfZeta · 12/05/2010, 02:31 PM

There was more info here, but the OP deleted all his old posts to try and conceal what as asshole he his, Roy Vegas style.

The Changer is a consumer version of Capcom's CPS arcade system, much in the same way that SNK made a home version of the arcade Neo Geo system. Obviously a Neo Geo is about a million times more fun since SNK released AES carts just a month or three after the MVS came out. SNK also used the same arcade hardware for 14 years or so, so the library is much bigger, better, badder.

A CP Changer that played CPS2 games would have been MUCH better. Capcom totally kicked ass during the CPS2 era. The versus games, the alpha games, Pro Gear, Puzzle Fighter, Vampire, AvP, Pocket Fighter, D&D, Mars Matrix....such good shit.

In the end though since super guns exists it much better and cheaper to just play the actual arcade boards. You can get almost any CPS1 or 2 game for $100 or less, if not a third of that. No need for a (semi) proprietary system. The cart self destruction is also somewhat easily solved nowadays.

blueraven · 12/05/2010, 05:28 PM

Quote from: SignOfZeta on 12/05/2010, 02:31 PMThere was more info here, but the OP deleted all his old posts to try and conceal what as asshole he his, Roy Vegas style.

Thank you for clarifying this.

Mathius · 12/06/2010, 12:36 AM

While we are on the subject, does anyone have any advice for a newbie concerning superguns?

All I know is that I want one. Bad.

SignOfZeta · 12/06/2010, 01:27 AM

Make sure it has accommodations for the Capcom kick harness, and that it takes Neo Geo sticks.

EDIT: Just thought of something. Make sure it has adjustable video, probably individual pots for R, G, and B. Different boards put out radically different levels.

Mathius · 12/06/2010, 02:01 AM

Quote from: SignOfZeta on 12/06/2010, 01:27 AMMake sure it has accommodations for the Capcom kick harness, and that it takes Neo Geo sticks.

EDIT: Just thought of something. Make sure it has adjustable video, probably individual pots for R, G, and B. Different boards put out radically different levels.

Thanks SoT! Do you have any preferred models? There is so many to choose from, so many that are home-made (which is probably the case with all of them I am guessing), that it's a bit overwhelming.

Tatsujin · 12/06/2010, 02:05 AM

Quote from: Mathius on 12/06/2010, 02:01 AMwhich is probably the case with all of them I am guessing

You are guessing right.

SignOfZeta · 12/06/2010, 02:15 AM

Quote from: Mathius on 12/06/2010, 02:01 AM
Quote from: SignOfZeta on 12/06/2010, 01:27 AMMake sure it has accommodations for the Capcom kick harness, and that it takes Neo Geo sticks.

EDIT: Just thought of something. Make sure it has adjustable video, probably individual pots for R, G, and B. Different boards put out radically different levels.
Thanks SoT! Do you have any preferred models? There is so many to choose from, so many that are home-made (which is probably the case with all of them I am guessing), that it's a bit overwhelming.

I've used quite a few from the old days (MAS, GWT, etc) and they all had something about them that sucked. The ones D-Lite made seem pretty nice. It doesn't really matter though. All an SG is is a power supply, a video encoder, and some controllers all wired together. Therefore the most important part is what video encoder it has (JROK and NeoBits are the popular ones now) and the rest is mainly cosmetic. They can easily be hacked and adapted as needed from board to board. The coolest thing about the new stuff is the tiny size.

SuperDeadite · 12/06/2010, 02:16 AM

Quote from: Mathius on 12/06/2010, 02:01 AM
Quote from: SignOfZeta on 12/06/2010, 01:27 AMMake sure it has accommodations for the Capcom kick harness, and that it takes Neo Geo sticks.

EDIT: Just thought of something. Make sure it has adjustable video, probably individual pots for R, G, and B. Different boards put out radically different levels.
Thanks SoT! Do you have any preferred models? There is so many to choose from, so many that are home-made (which is probably the case with all of them I am guessing), that it's a bit overwhelming.

Expensive to get in the States, but the Japanese units like Sigma's are very well made and sturdy.

SignOfZeta · 12/06/2010, 03:12 AM

Sigmas are THE BUSINESS, but they are really hard to find and pricy, from what I've seen.

SuperDeadite · 12/06/2010, 06:45 AM

Well depends on what you want to pay for them. In Japan you can buy them brand new for 30,000yen or so.
But then being metal, they weigh a lot, so shipping is quite pricey. And factor in that Yen-$ exchange rate,
and anyone in the US is gonna have a much lighter wallet. But very obtainable if one is serious.

DragonmasterDan · 12/06/2010, 08:38 AM

Quote from: JAPJAC on 04/30/2009, 09:45 PMDamien McFerran and JAPJAC's Capcom Power System CHANGER print feature (appears in the December 2010, issue 84, of Retro Gamer magazine):
I believe this to be the FIRST feature in print on the system in English in the World, ever.

Out now!

Cheers.

In the early- mid 90s, when Street Fighter II was a phenemenon one of the US game mags, probably EGM or GameFan had a letter column about it with pictures. A few stores in the back of game magazines were actually selling them.

Added in edit: The main tip they had for anyone with enough money to buy one was check the boards for Capcom on them, as counterfeit arcade boards were common.

Mathius · 12/06/2010, 11:56 AM

Quote from: SignOfZeta on 12/06/2010, 02:15 AM
Quote from: Mathius on 12/06/2010, 02:01 AM
Quote from: SignOfZeta on 12/06/2010, 01:27 AMMake sure it has accommodations for the Capcom kick harness, and that it takes Neo Geo sticks.

EDIT: Just thought of something. Make sure it has adjustable video, probably individual pots for R, G, and B. Different boards put out radically different levels.
Thanks SoT! Do you have any preferred models? There is so many to choose from, so many that are home-made (which is probably the case with all of them I am guessing), that it's a bit overwhelming.
I've used quite a few from the old days (MAS, GWT, etc) and they all had something about them that sucked. The ones D-Lite made seem pretty nice. It doesn't really matter though. All an SG is is a power supply, a video encoder, and some controllers all wired together. Therefore the most important part is what video encoder it has (JROK and NeoBits are the popular ones now) and the rest is mainly cosmetic. They can easily be hacked and adapted as needed from board to board. The coolest thing about the new stuff is the tiny size.

That's the one thing that has surprised me about SGs is their small size.

SignOfZeta · 12/06/2010, 03:44 PM

Quote from: SuperDeadite on 12/06/2010, 06:45 AMWell depends on what you want to pay for them. In Japan you can buy them brand new for 30,000yen or so.
But then being metal, they weigh a lot, so shipping is quite pricey. And factor in that Yen-$ exchange rate,
and anyone in the US is gonna have a much lighter wallet. But very obtainable if one is serious.

Wait, they still make them? I thought they quit ages go. Can you get the dual stick with the SG built in for a price like that?

SuperDeadite · 12/06/2010, 09:10 PM

They did quit for awhile, but then choose to come back. Currently there's the AV7000 which has separate controllers,
and is what I have. There is also the Raijin which is the 2 player all in one unit. And for the truly extreme fan,
there is also the Boardmaster, which comes equipped with a real Blast City CP. And can easily be changed to what ever
panel you desire.

http://www.mak-jp.com/ctrbox.html

SignOfZeta · 12/06/2010, 11:36 PM

Oh, killer.

Is so you have the Σ9000TB sticks? Those things are bad as fuck.

If shipping wasn't $150 or whatever, I'd possibly pull the trigger on one of these.

Also, does the AV7000 come with a controller for that price? It seems kind of expensive if it doesn't.

Mathius · 12/07/2010, 12:27 AM

Quote from: SuperDeadite on 12/06/2010, 09:10 PMThey did quit for awhile, but then choose to come back. Currently there's the AV7000 which has separate controllers,
and is what I have. There is also the Raijin which is the 2 player all in one unit. And for the truly extreme fan,
there is also the Boardmaster, which comes equipped with a real Blast City CP. And can easily be changed to what ever
panel you desire.

http://www.mak-jp.com/ctrbox.html

Quite sexy!

I wish I knew how to work with one of these crazy gizmos.

SignOfZeta · 12/07/2010, 03:56 AM

You just plug everything in, pretty much. If the game is standard JAMMA (ie: four buttons or less plus Start, 8 direction joystick and coin button, per side) then that's all you have to to. If its something with more buttons there is usually a special extra harness to hook up directly from the PCB to the controllers. If there is an analog controller or something then its kind of on a game by game basis.

SuperDeadite · 12/07/2010, 07:24 AM

Quote from: SignOfZeta on 12/06/2010, 11:36 PMOh, killer.

Is so you have the Σ9000TB sticks? Those things are bad as fuck.

If shipping wasn't $150 or whatever, I'd possibly pull the trigger on one of these.

Also, does the AV7000 come with a controller for that price? It seems kind of expensive if it doesn't.

Depends on the store you buy from. I paid 30,000yen for AV7000 + 1 9000TB Stick + Harness (wired for 5 buttons).
They only include a crappy composite cable though, so you'd want to order an RGB or S-Video cable as well.

Mathius · 12/07/2010, 12:57 PM

Quote from: SignOfZeta on 12/07/2010, 03:56 AMYou just plug everything in, pretty much. If the game is standard JAMMA (ie: four buttons or less plus Start, 8 direction joystick and coin button, per side) then that's all you have to to. If its something with more buttons there is usually a special extra harness to hook up directly from the PCB to the controllers. If there is an analog controller or something then its kind of on a game by game basis.

Cool! That doesn't sound too difficult at all! Now all I have to decide is whether to get a CMVS or a SuperGun. Gotta wait until tax-time though.

SuperDeadite · 12/07/2010, 07:30 PM

A CMVS is stupid. It's just an MVS with a SuperGun attached to it. In other words, a supergun that only plays MVS games. While a separate supergun plays anything.

SignOfZeta · 12/07/2010, 11:03 PM

True, but it is a lot smaller. A supergun hooked to, for example, a CPS3 is a fucking huge collection of stuff strewn out all over the place. Those newer CMVSs based on later single slot boards are really compact.

TR0N · 12/08/2010, 12:57 AM

Quote from: Mathius on 12/07/2010, 12:57 PM
Quote from: SignOfZeta on 12/07/2010, 03:56 AMYou just plug everything in, pretty much. If the game is standard JAMMA (ie: four buttons or less plus Start, 8 direction joystick and coin button, per side) then that's all you have to to. If its something with more buttons there is usually a special extra harness to hook up directly from the PCB to the controllers. If there is an analog controller or something then its kind of on a game by game basis.
Cool! That doesn't sound too difficult at all! Now all I have to decide is whether to get a CMVS or a SuperGun. Gotta wait until tax-time though.

If you want to play more then mvs get a supergun if not then a,cmvs is fine if you want to save on space.

Though i warn ya collecting arcade pcb can get expensive depending what game it is.Beside the risk of getting a defective board.

Mathius · 12/08/2010, 01:04 AM

Quote from: TR0N on 12/08/2010, 12:57 AM
Quote from: Mathius on 12/07/2010, 12:57 PM
Quote from: SignOfZeta on 12/07/2010, 03:56 AMYou just plug everything in, pretty much. If the game is standard JAMMA (ie: four buttons or less plus Start, 8 direction joystick and coin button, per side) then that's all you have to to. If its something with more buttons there is usually a special extra harness to hook up directly from the PCB to the controllers. If there is an analog controller or something then its kind of on a game by game basis.
Cool! That doesn't sound too difficult at all! Now all I have to decide is whether to get a CMVS or a SuperGun. Gotta wait until tax-time though.
If you want to play more then mvs get a supergun if not then a,cmvs is fine if you want to save on space.

Though i warn ya collecting arcade pcb can get expensive depending what game it is.Beside the risk of getting a defective board.

Yeah, I may wait on the SuperGun until I get promoted or something. A CMVS' library is shelf friendly, and I just love good 'ol SNK.