DCEmu Homebrew Emulation & Theme Park News
DCEmu Reviews
by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:43- Categories:
- Nintendo 64 News,
- DCEmu Reviews
NEO N64 Myth Flash Cart SPEC v2
Manufacturer: NeoFlash
Site: Buy from IC2005
Price: $199.00
reviewed by wraggster
Overview : The Neo N64 Myth is a flash cart for your Nintendo 64 that lets you transfer games from your PC to a cart via USB. This features support for ROMs up to 512MB, all save types (it will even let you back up the saves on your PC), up to two games at the same time, and more.
Features:
- Support the N64 ROM size up to 512M
- Support all save type perfectly included the flash save, not need the same save type N64 game cart to work together
- Support 100% N64 games perfectly
- Download games from PC to NEO2 cart directly via USB port
- Upload/overwrite game save to PC via USB directly
- Multi-CIC support, can use any N64 cart to boot Neo Myth on N64 console
- Support Multi games, can download 2 games at the same time and swap the game via switch
- Can select the N64 menu run from Neo2 game cart or N64 inner menu flash (under developing still)
- Upgradeable! Support upgrade the N64 Myth cart CPLD logic core through the NDP upgrade kit
A Little about the reviewer
Ive been an emulation and homebrew fan for as many years as i can remember (since around 1996 i think) but nothing i repeat nothing is better than playing on the real hardware.
Back in the Megadrive (Genesis) and SNES days i owned a Super Wild Card and a Super Double Pro fighter, both cost about 300 pounds and ill admit that it was a great way to play games that i would never have been able to afford or because of stupid region lockouts.
So the day when Neoflash announced they were working on a Flash Cart for the Nintendo 64 called NEO Myth 64, i wanted one so badly, the chance to relive the best of the N64 and to play games I've never played was too much of a thrill to behold.
Now i must point out that being a webmaster of a homebrew site makes me no expert, I'm just as clueless as most newcomers, i like websites and i like posting news, i like to know that if i need a certain release i should be able to find it on my sites (hopefully :P).
Packaging: First off here's some screens of the N64 Flash Cart in and out its Packaging:
Front Side View in Packaging
Back Side view in Packaging
The NEO N64 Myth cart
Neo 2 Flash Cart - Which Holds SD Cards up to 8GB
The Neo n64 Myth Cart and the Neo 2 Cart split apart
The USB Lead
You also get a Mini CD with a load of Drivers on for all Neo Products.
Getting Started
The N64 Flash Cart did come with a Mini CD of drivers but sadly there was no actual drivers for the N64 Flash Cart, so first off you need to head on over to Neoflash Forum to download the latest version of the software, once you've downloaded it (15MB) then click on to install to the directory it wants to, pretty straightforward for anyone.
Clicking on the Neo 2 Ultra Menu Icon (look on your desktop or in new programs) will lead you onto a screen that looks like this:
Now get your Neo Myth N64 Flash Cart and making sure that the cart that says 512M is inserted (or the Neo 2 Card with an SD Card inserted), connect the USB Lead to the Cart and Plug it into your Laptop or PC.
It Should have no problems and automatically find drivers installed when you installed the software above, I had no problems using Windows Vista but with Windows XP Pro SP3 it wouldn't load the drivers properly, i did post a thread at Neoflash and was given instructions on how to fix this. (Try a different USB Lead it may be that)
Adding ROMS, etc.
Ok carrying on from the screenshot above if everything went ok you'll be able to start the juicy part, first off i did a quick format of the card, it took around 30 seconds to do, so no real biggie.
Next on the list was to add ROMS to the Cart (Homebrew ROMS and Emulators can be found at links Below)
Adding Roms is as easy as clicking the add ROM button and going to whereever your roms are, for some strange reason the cart/software at the moment only holds 2 ROMSbut i would think that will change in later versions of the firmware/software.
Once you have added the ROMS you require then click on N64 Burn, depending on how big your ROMS are will depend on how long it takes to copy to the cart, give it a few minutes, it also verifies each burn.
Now one thing to take into consideration is that if you have a USA N64, you will need a USA game plugged into the back of the N64 Myth Cart, If you have a Pal N64 youll need a Pal game plugged in.
I have both a USA and UK (Pal) N64 and thankfully the Power supplies/TV Leads are universal so im able to swap at pleasure.
Here's a pic of the Cart plugged into the N64
Now for Homebrew roms you dont need anything else to boot them but say you want to boot one of the games that requires the Expansion Pack
Games that need the Expansion Pack are the likes of Donkey Kong 64 and Zelda--The Majora's Mask and Perfect Dark, it also ups the resolution on many other games too.
Onto the Gaming
Ok you've burnt your games onto the Flash cart and you have the Flash Cart installed in the N64 with the correct region game in the back, now its time to turn on:
It loads automatically into the game as you can see, if you did burn 2 games there's a little lever on the top of cart that you push over if you want the other ROM to load at the start before you turn the console on.
Games I've Tested So Far
Donkey Kong 64 - Perfect
Star Wars Battle for Naboo - Perfect
Diddy Kong Racing - Perfect
GoldenEye 007 - Perfect
Perfect Dark - Perfect
PilotWings 64 - Perfect
Killer Instinct - Perfect
Star Wars Episode I - Racer - Perfect
Stunt Racer 64 - Perfect
Yoshi's Story - Perfect
Over at Neoflash there's a more complete list of whats working and save issues etc.
Conclusion : Today was one of them times when i was took back to the reasons i truly love the homebrew/Emulation scene. The Flash Cart seems easy to use, The adding of ROMS to the cart is as easy as they come so a big plus factor there, its a shame at this moment in time it only supports 2 ROMS, hopefully that's one thing that will be updated soon.
Having no drivers and documentation on the CD will make it a little hard for newbies but i would think that most people that are going to buy this are the hardcore N64 fans of old.
On the whole the ROMS it plays is great and if you have the expansion pack you can play just about every single N64 Game released and all homebrew and emulators too.
The price for the Flash Cart is $199, so it will put a lot of people off but to retro collectors/major emulation fans it will be very worth it, if you owned one of the back up systems for the N64 this will be much more preferable as theirs no moving parts to break. Yes for that price you can buy a heck of a lot of the games but there's some genuine gems that are very hard to trace these days and the homebrew factor makes it worth it for me.
My advice is to those who are tempted is go for it, the flash cart does what you really want it to and that's play Nintendo 64, a big thumbs up for Neoflash on this retro cart.
I suppose like everything it depends how big a fan you are and what finances you have to spend on gadgets, for me it does what i want it to and its also seen the re-emergence of a Homebrew scene for the N64, we have already seen releases of ScummVM for the N64 and there's also SNES, NES, MSX, Master System/Game gear and Gameboy Emulators for the N64.
Links of Interest
Ic2005.com - Official Sellers of the NEO Myth 64 N64 flash cart and Neoflash Products.
Neoflash Forum for all discussion regarding the flash cart.
N64 Development forum at Neoflash.
N64 Homebrew News and Emulation Site at DCEmu.
Homebrew N64 Games at N64 Scener.
Homebrew N64 Demos at N64 Scener.
Icequake n64 Site
Images via commentsby Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:42- Categories:
- PSP News,
- DCEmu Reviews
Kingmax microSD to Pro Duo Adapter
Manufacturer: Kingmax
Site: Buy from Brando
Price: $17.00
Overview : Transform microSD into Memory Stick Duo
Features :
- Ideal for use in small digital devices
- Transform microSD into Memory Stick PRO Duo format
- Compatible with Memory Stick PRO Duo device e.g. PSP
Specifications :
- Form factor:
- MS PRO Duo adapter: 31(w) x 20(H) x 1.6(D)mm
- Operating Voltage: 2.7V~3.6V
- Weight Aggrox. 1g
Quality/Usability : Some of you have probably heard about this unique adapter. The Kingmax microSD to Pro Duo Adapter allows you to use your microSD card, also known as TransFlash, in your electronic devices that uses Pro Duo such as Sony Ericsson cellphones and your Sony PSP.
Prices of microSD are fairly cheap and are the size of a thumbnail. If you can find the right deal, you can get a 1GB microSD card for free or for $10. The bigger the storage, the higher the price. This is a great alternative to having to buy a 1GB Pro Duo card.
Slipping the microSD card into the Pro Duo adapter is like any other adapter whether its Pro Duo to Memory Stick adapter, microSD to SD adapter and so on. Removing it is the same as well.
Once a microSD card is inserted, reading and writing is about the same as if it was a Pro Duo. I used Brando 55 in 1 Card Reader/Writer and the speeds of reading/writing to the card is fairly quick.
I tried the adapter both in my Sony PSP and Sony Ericsson w810i. I tested this with a SanDisk, PNY and US Modular 1GB microSD cards. In both devices, they both read the adapter without a problem. Listening to music and playing videos did not show any signs of slow down. With regards to playing games on the PSP, I didnt notice any slow downs or lags.
Conclusion : Overall, the Kingmax microSD to Pro Duo Adapter is great if you have microSD cards laying around the house. The speed of reading and writing is as fast as a normal Pro Duo card. Luckily, the price of microSD cards are cheap so it makes a good alternative to the Pro Duo card. Currently, the highest microSD card available is 2GB.
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:42- Categories:
- Apple News,
- DCEmu Reviews
iSkin SOHO Macbook Sleeve Case
Manufacturer: iSkin
Site: Buy from iSkin
Price: $59.99 (For 13" MacBook or Similar Sized PC Laptop); $64.99 (For 15" MacBook Pro or Similar Sized PC Laptop)
Overview :
It's what's inside that counts.
On the go with your laptop means keeping it safe and the iSkin SOHO does just that. With elegant style and cool colors, SOHO features a multi-layered design to absorb the hits and dings that would normally damage your laptop.
MacBook, meet your match.
Made for the MacBook and Macbook Pro, the SOHO's distinguished good looks, coupled with legendary iSkin fit and finish, makes it the perfect accessory for your laptop and your outfit. It also fits PC's with similar dimensions.
Right down to the zipper.
Zipping around town means you need quick access to your computer. The SOHO features an iSkin designed ergonomic zipper that's easy to grab and pull. It also looks great!
Look good anywhere.
Combined with the iSkin ProTouch Keyboard Protector, the SOHO is ideal for students, business users and just about anyone who prefers to be anywhere but at a desk. It also makes a great heat barrier when using your MacBook on your lap.
Features:
- Specifically made for Apple MacBook / MacBook Pro
- Works with similar sized PC laptops
- Slim two-tone design
- Colored stitching
- Simulated premium leather finish
- Reinforced, durable, outer shell
- Color-matching, plush padded lining
- Sure-grip custom iSkin designed zipper pull
- Clam-shell design for easy access to laptop
- Inner elastic screen straps
- Multi-layered construction
- Stylish yet elegant
- Reinforced spine
- Available in a variety of color styles
Specifications:
For MacBook or similar PC
Length: 13" (33cm)
Width: 9" (23cm)
Depth: 1" (4cm)
For MacBook Pro or similar PC
Length: 14.1" (36cm)
Width: 9.6" (25cm)
Depth: 1" (4cm)
Available in a variety color combinations:
- Amazon: Black with Pink
- Graphite: Black with Grey
- Magnum: Black with Red
- Sahara: Black with Orange
- Azure: Black with Blue
Quality/Usability : I have been on a hunt to find that perfect notebook sleeve to carry my Macbook instead of lugging around my North Face laptop backpack. I didnt want anything too bulky and simple but at the same time, being stylish. iSkin's SOHO seems to fit the bill. iSkin is known for the iPod cases and their PSP carry cases.
The iSkin SOHO is made of black "premium synthetic leather" with colored stitching and colored lining all around. The outer hard shell and inner lining protects your precious laptop from everyday hazards such as minor scratches, bumps and spills. The sides where the zipper is located does not offer much protection like the outer hard shell but dont worry, the zipper does not touch laptop either as it is also lined. The zipper contains a iSkin logo but it would have been nice if it included two zippers instead of one. The SOHO also protects your lap from the heat coming from the bottom of your notebook.
What I also like about the SOHO compared to some other sleeves on the market is that you can use your notebook while its in the sleeve since it has two elastic bands on the top of the case. So when you open the SOHO, the lid of your notebook also opens at the same time. The inner lining is the same color as the zipper and stitching and also has "iSkin" imprinted all over.
The SOHO fits perfectly around the Macbook without adding much bulk but still giving ample protection at the same time. You can also place this into a carry bag or backpack without a problem. But I feel that the SOHO is mainly aimed towards Apple laptops rather than PC laptops.
CAUTION: Remove the laptop from the SOHO while connected to an external monitor or when used for extended periods of time. iSkin is not responsible for damage caused to your laptop when used with this product.
Conclusion : Overall, the iSkin SOHO Macbook Sleeve Case is great for any college student or a freelancer like me who meets clients every so often. Its elegant and nothing too flashy or fancy on the eyes. Since this is a sleeve case, there are no additional pockets and no strap, so holding it may cause you to drop it. So if you carrying a mouse, charger and other accessories with you, you'll need to carry a bag with you. I no longer have to expose my Macbook to potential damage and its easier to use on public transportation. Its so convenient...just unzip and open. No more removing laptop from sleeve and having to shove it back in when I'm done or rushing to get off train/bus. Just close and zip it up. Although its probably the best looking and best protecting case, the price will hurt your wallet compared to others out there. Its either spend a little bit extra and know you're getting protection or take the risk of buying something cheaper and potentially damaging your laptop and having to buy a new one later on.
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:42- Categories:
- Apple News,
- PS3 News,
- Android News,
- Apple iPad,
- Apple iPhone,
- DCEmu Reviews
iSkin CERULEAN F1+TX BT Headset
Manufacturer: iSkin
Site: Buy from iSkin
Price: $189.99
Overview : Nothing feels better than having the freedom to do the things we love without being tied down by wires. The CERULEAN F1+TX gives you the freedom of wireless sound from your iPod, mobile phone or computer. It delivers crisp, clean stereo sound and superior headset functionality in a sleek and compact design that's attractive, easy to use and feature filled.
The CERULEAN F1+TX was built with iTunes in mind and integrates flawlessly. It also works well with other audio applications on your PC or Mac for a hassle free listening experience. If you have just upgraded to OS X Leopard, don't worry.... it works there too.
Since everybody has a unique pair of ears, we ship the F1 with two different earhook shapes. They are designed to be comfortable and keep the F1's in an optimal listening position at all times.
Charge your F1 and TX using any powered USB charging port or USB 5V(DC) wall charger, power options are endless. Your F1 is fully charged in just over 2 hours and ready for over 8 hours of continuous music play back. You can get up to 10 hours of talk time on a single charge.
The CERULEAN F1 features full Bluetooth 2.0® compatibility and contains the necessary profiles to work with many of today's Bluetooth® mobile devices.
Features :
- Small, light weight and ergonomic design
- Multi-point pairing
- Operational range 33 feet (10m)
- Stereo Bluetooth® 2.0 equipped
- Music playback 8 hours
- Talk time 10 hours
- Standby 300 hours
Suggested Users :
- Listen to audio from iTunes®, DVD's, CD's or any applications wirelessly.
- Listen to and remotely control your iPod wirelessly.
- Stream stereo music from your iPhone and use your F1 headset for phone calls simultaneously.
- Compatible with most mobile Bluetooth devices for hands free calls and music.
Quality/Usability : With how technology is advancing in today's world, wireless is starting to play a major part in our lives ranging from mobile phones, internet, music players and remotes around the house. Cerulean thought they would chime in on the wireless technology by releasing a wireless combo known as the iSkin Cerulean F1+TX, for our beloved iPod and cellphones. The F1+TX allows you to listen to your iPod without the hassle of cords dangling from your headset and doubles as a hands-free headset for your mobile phone.
The F1 is the model of the headset. The TX is a small dongle that attaches to your iPod. Included with this package is a USB cable for charging the F1, pair of alternative ear hooks, foam earphone covers and extra rubber rings for the earphones. Also included is a USB adapter for the TX so that you can stream music from your computer to the F1 heaset.
The F1 heaset looks similar to some of the bluetooth headsets you see on the market for mobile phones but instead of only one, there are two. Both are connected via a small cable. All of the controls are on the right headset. The face of the headset features a multi-function button (Play and Pause) with an LED status light. The back has an ON/OFF switch. The top has a NEXT and PREVIOUS track controls. The bottom has a Volume UP and Volume Down buttons as well as the USB charging port. A small microphone is on the front of the F1.
The TX dongle does not have as much features or buttons on it. All there is on the TX is iPod plug with a USB charging port to the left side of the TX and a LED indicator on the front face. It's compatible with any Apple device that uses the standard 30-pin connector.
According to iSkin, the first charge should take about 6 hours but any charge after that should take only 2 to 3 hours. With new products that requires charging, I usually let it charge overnight. With moderate use of listening to music only, the F1's battery lasted a couple of days. If you forget to turn off the headset, you'll obviously drain the battery more quickly.
Once the F1 is fully charged, you'll need to pair it to the TX. To do so, its similar to that of pairing it with your mobile phone. Plug the TX into the iPod and turn the F1 on by holding down the multi-function button. Thats it! The TX draws its power from the iPod battery so you will experience shorter battery life on the iPod.
The F1 doubles not only as a headset to listen to music on both the iPod or mobile phone but it is also a bluetooth headset. But do remember that when you're using the F1 to listen to music on your mobile phone, that you phone must be A2DP compatible. Not all phones will allow you to use stream music to a bluetooth headset. You'll need to pair the F1 to your phone. The process is the same but without the use of the TX. Simply set your phone into pair mode and hold down the multi-function button on the F1. Once paired, you can use the controls on the F1 to answer calls (press once), ignore calls (hold down until you hear a beep), adjust the volume, redial, and place calls on mute or hold.
If you receive ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:42- Categories:
- PSP News,
- PS3 News,
- PS2 News,
- Nintendo Wii News,
- Xbox 360 News,
- Xbox News,
- DCEmu Reviews
XCM Multi-Console Component Cable v3
Manufacturer: XCM
Site: Buy from Play-Asia / Buy from Divineo China / Buy from Divineo France
Price: $39.99
Overview : Finally a single cable to connect ALL your consoles to your TV! No more switchbox's needed, this cable can handle it all. Finally you can free up those extra inputs on your TV for other devices!
Features :
- Fully Compatible with Xbox 360™, Wii™, PS3™/PS2™, PSP Slim™, Xbox™ consoles.
- Built in switch prevents interference of other consoles while in use.
- High quality shielded cable.
- Supports Component Signals (Stereo).
- High Quality and High Speed of Transfer Signal.
- Supports Dolby Prologic.
- Supports DTS 5.1 Channel System.
- Supports DOLBY Digital Surround Sound.
- Supports Stereo Sound.
- Supports Optical Signal on Xbox 360™.
- Compatible with Surround Sound Receiver or Integrated Amplifiers.
- Supports CRT, Plasma, LCD or any HDTV System
- Supports D2 (480i/480P); (720i/720P) & D4 (1080i/ 1080P) technology.
Quality/Usability : XCM has released another multi-console component cable but unlike v2, v3 supports not only Xbox360, Wii, PS2, PS3 but now PSP and the original Xbox! This is an all-in-one cable for your whole entire entertainment center.
There are five plugs for your console: PSP, PS2/PS3, Wii, Xbox, and Xbox 360. On the other end are the component cable inputs that connect to your TV. On the "switcher" itself, you have six switches: PSP, PS2/PS3, Wii, Xbox, Xbox 360HD and 360SD. So just switch to the system you are playing with.
The quality of the cable is sturdy and very durable. The visual quality that the cable outputs is on par with that of the stand alone cables. I did not see any ghosting or any lag. The colors were bright and crisp from what I have seen during the testing. Switching between consoles only took a couple of seconds for it to be displayed. However, switching between consoles on the switcher can be a little annoying. Sometimes you'll "overshoot" the switch that you want. So you'll have to slowly push the switch.
In my original review of the Multi-Console Component Cable v2, I mentioned that the cable from system to system is fairly long. Its long enough if your system was near or next to each other. But after upgrading my entertainment center and having my systems in different locations, the cables were not long enough especially if you have them on different shelf heights. The cable from the TV to the switcher has a decent length to it.
Below is a video on how to connect the Multi-Console Component Cable v3:
Conclusion : Overall, the XCM Multi-Console Component Cable v3 works great like its predecessor. Quality and build is sturdy. Visual quality is great as well as the color. However, the length of the cables from system to switcher and to other systems isnt long enough if you have systems in different locations or on different shelves. If you have majority of the systems and they are near each other, you wont have all those cables dangling and it frees up your AV slots. However, if you only have 1 or 2 systems, this is not worth the cost. The price tag of $39.99 is fair but $29.99-$34.99 would be the sweet spot.
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:42- Categories:
- PSP News,
- DCEmu Reviews
microSD to MS Pro Duo Adapter
Manufacturer: N/A
Site: Buy from ConsoleSource
Price: $12.99
Overview : This adapter converts Micro SD / Micro SDHC / T-Flash into a MS Pro Duo and to be used with the growing number of MS Pro Duo compatible devices such as Sony PSP, PDAs, digital cameras and cellphones.
Features :
- Support to 1GB MicroSD to 8GB MicroSDHC
- Plug-N-Play
Quality/Usability : With different electronics available comes different media storage. Like everyone, you probably bought a memory stick for a device and the device either broke, got something new or is no longer being used. So what are you to do with those memory sticks? You either let it sit on your shelf and collect dust, try and sell it or reuse it with the help of an adapter.
Sony has their own like of memory sticks and their highly popular sticks right now are the Pro Duo. But the prices are fairly high compared to other cards on the market. A 4GB MS Pro Duo can cost as much as $60. It use to cost over $300 when it was first released and depending on brand. Currently, the 8GB costs just as much as the 4GB when it first released. Within a couple of months, these prices will drop dramatically to a more reasonable price but it would still be expensive.
SD cards are also a very popular and highly used format. With technology advancing, so are the sizes of memory sticks. The TransFlash also known as microSD/microSDHC (SDHC is higher capacity) which usually comes with an SD adapter is proof. microSD's are used in cellphones, PDAs and camera's with the use of the adapter. But the price is what makes it very affordable and highly used in electronics. A 1GB microSD can be purchased for $10 or even FREE after rebate.
Manufacturers are always looking of ways to provide a solution on using other memory cards in other devices. The microSD to MS Pro Duo Adapter is similar to that of the Kingmax microSd to Pro Duo Adapter.
This review was tested with both a normal 1GB microSD card as well as a 4GB microSDHC card. Both cards fit flush inside the adapter. The adapter is the same exact size as a SanDisk or Sony brand Pro Duo. During our tests, we did not notice any slow down during reading and writing to the microSD with the Pro Duo adapter.
Conclusion : Overall, the microSD to MS Pro Duo Adapter worked just as it should. If you have extra microSD's laying around or dont want to pay for the high priced Pro Duo cards, you might want to check this out. However, the quality of the adapter is cheap. The plastic is very lightweight and thin compared to SanDisk or Sony brand Pro Duos.
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:42- Categories:
- DCEmu Reviews
Extreme-Mods Disc Repair Service
Manufacturer: N/A
Site: Buy from Extreme-Mods
Price: $5.99 per disc + shipping costs (ships internationally)
Overview : Send us your scratched or damaged Xbox, Xbox 360, Wii, Playstation 2 (PS2), Playstation 3 (PS3), Gamecube, CD, DVD, HD-DVD, BluRay, PC discs and have them professionally resurfaced and promptly returned to you. Using specialized machine(s) we are able to get great results that remove all scratches and restores the disc to "like new" condition.
Notice: We do not guarantee ALL discs will be repairable but we will do our best to repair it to its original playing condition. We are not responsible for discs lost in the mail or in transit.
Attention Xbox 360 Users: If you accidentally scratched a game disc in your console like the disc pictured above, we are here to help! This is scratch ring is easily removed with our special machine(s) and techniques. We will restore your disc to like new condition so you can enjoy playing it again.
Quality/Usability : So I know we all had a bunch of scratched disc whether it be from poor handling of the disc, letting a sibling, child, pet damage it or from your player. Upon trying to play the disc, it was badly scratched that we had to either try and repair it ourselves with a disc repairer, have a store try and repair it or throw it away.
Well, I had Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 for the Xbox 360. Unfortunately, someone sent this to me from a trade. Upon looking at it, I was greatly disappointed at the condition. I thought it would still work despite the condition and the game would not read or load. I tried taking the disc to many stores such as GameCrazy, EB/GameStop, Blockbuster, FYE and many other retail stores that deals with videogame, movies and music. None would repair my disc. They would only repair lightly scratched discs but as you can see by the image above.
I noticed that Extreme-Mods provided a service on repairing discs. Although they state that do not guarantee that all discs are repairable, I was willing to give it a shot. I have nothing else to lose. No other stores would take it and the disc is already useless. I have nothing to lose.
Cost of repair is $5.99 per disc. Shipping starts at $3.38 for First Class. Depending on how many discs you send and how heavy the package is, price of shipping will vary. I sent the disc with a blank DVD case and it costs around $2.00 via First Class, give or take a couple of cents (depending on location). If you add any extra services such as tracking or insurance and what shipping method, it will cost more. So in total, it will cost almost $12 just to ship, have it done and shipped back to you.
Having shipped the package on a Monday via First Class, it arrived within a couple of days. Extreme-Mods had the item shipped back 2-3 days after receiving it. I received the package a couple days later. So in total, from shipping to receiving, it took almost 2 weeks. Again, depending on shipping method you choose, it could be sooner.
As you can see from the picture, the ring scratch is no longer visible. But upon looking at it very very and I mean, very closely, I can still see a little bit of a ring that was left. This is only visible held in a certain way with the right lighting. Other than that, its impossible to see. Also, the machine used to repair the disc left some very very small hairline buff marks. Again, this is impossible to see unless held in a certain position and lighting.
Conclusion : Overall, the Extreme-Mods Disc Repair Service exceeded my expectations. I was expecting maybe a Disc Doctor type of repair where it would leave huge buff marks or Extreme-Mods emailing me and informing me that it was unrepairable. The disc is useless already...so I have nothing to lose. Extreme-Mods repaired a disc that no other store would perform. Even if the stores said that they can try to repair but couldnt guarantee that it can, I would of given it a shot. But they turned me down.
After being denied of repair from stores, I was so close to snapping the disc in half and tossing the disc in the garbage until I found the repair service. Extreme-Mods says they usually ship the disc back in 24-48 hours but it took about 48-72 hours due to them being a little swamped. Now, I am able to trade this game rather than have a coaster on my hand. So is it like new condition? Yes, definitely. However, the cost of repair including shipping costs is a bit too high and may put a dent in the wallet. $6 to resurface a disc? $3 would of been more reasonable. If sending disc(s) to be repaired, use a bubble padded envelope and place discs in a blank DVD case or something sturdy to prevent it from being snapped during transit.
Images via commentsby Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:42- Categories:
- PC News,
- DCEmu Reviews
Ultimate 2000 AX VGA-TV Converter
Manufacturer: Vtimage
Site: Buy from Goldenshop
Price: $49.99
Overview : Ultimate 2000 AX is a handed-size universal VGA to TV converter box. It supports resolution up to 1280x1024. Compact size, power from USB port, easy for carry. It is best for PC Game, PC DVD, Internet viewing on TV, Entertainment, Education and Presentation.
Features
- Pure hardware design, just Plug & Display
- No software driver required, compatible with any operation system
- Support 640x48@60/72/75/85Hz, 800x600@60/72/75/85Hz, 1027x768@60/70/75/85Hz, 1280x1024@60Hz display mode
- Switchable NTSC, NTSC-EIAJ (for Japan), PAL, PAL-M, PAL-N, PAL-combination-N and SECAM video system
- Supports Position control and MENU button
- MENU button supports HSIZE, VSIZE, BRIGHTNESS, CONTRAST, HUE, SATURATION, SHARPNESS, and OSD BACKGROUND color adjustment
- Support overscan and underscan function
- Simultaneous display on VGA monitor and TV
- Power from USB port
- 24bit, true color digitizer
- Supports IBM PC and MAC G4
- Compact form factor: 95mm(L)x55mm(W)x30mm(H)
Package Contents
- Ultimate 2000 AX (PC to TV converter box)
- User's Manual
- S-Video cable
- Video cable
- USB type power cable
- VGA cable for IBM PC & MAC G4
Quality/Usability : My video card on my PC has a VGA OUT I was able to watch movies on my 32" TV rather than my 17" PC monitor. This made viewing a lot easier for when I had company over. But having to my computer (motherboard died on me), I lost the ability to watch movies on my TV even though I am able to see my computer. So I had to look for another alternative.
Ultimate 2000 AX was that alternative solution. I tried the Ultimate 2000 AX both on my desktop as well as my IBM Thinkpad laptop that I got from my college. Installation was simple and basic. Connect a few cables whether it be VGA cables, S-Video cable or Video cable and the USB power cable and you're all set to go. Unfortunately, you'll have to play around with it as the manual that was included isnt really a manual. I had to go by the image that was printed on the back of the box.
On the front of the Ultimate 2000 AX are 6 buttons. LEFT, RIGHT, UP, DOWN, MENU and SIZE. LEFT, RIGHT, UP, DOWN are pretty much self explanatory. MENU brings up HSIZE, VSIZE, BRIGHTNESS, CONTRAST, HUE, SATURATION, SHARPNESS, and OSD BACKGROUND color adjustment. HSIZE allows you to adjust the height, VSIZE allows you to adjust the width. BRIGHTNESS, CONTRAST, HUE, SATURATION, SHARPNESS are all self explanatory. OSD Background lets you adjust the color of the text on the MENU selection to either white or black. SIZE allows you to choose various different sizes that will suit your viewing and size of TV.
The back has a VIDEO OUT to connect to TV, S-Video to connect your VCR and VGA OUT to connect to your PC monitor. The left side is VGA IN plug. On the right side of is the DC IN and a switch 1 & 2. Switch 1 & 2 lets you choose your TV standard whether it be NTSC or PAL. For NTSC, switch 1 is down (ON) and switch 2 is up (OFF). For PAL, both switches are down. Remember the "manual"? As mentioned, there was really no manual and I had to figure this out myself as when I first plugged in the Ultimate 2000 AX, I thought I did something wrong or it was broken.
Besides the lack of information in the "manual", I am impressed with the quality that is displayed. The quality is clear, colors are vibrant and the ability to adjust the size of display to fit on your TV is a great plus! This is perfect if you have movies stored on your computer and want to view it on your bigger TV. Its also great for your presentation for either work or school related. Since this only supports video, audio is still coming from your original source whether it be from your laptop or computer speakers.
Conclusion : Overall, the Ultimate 2000 AX VGA-TV Converter does its job great. At first, I was skeptic about the quality of the display coming from a no-name brand device. But after seeing this in action, I am no longer skeptic. It would have been nice if the "manual" was actually a manual rather than a piece of paper that lists product features, introduction, system requirements and package contents. Price is fairly reasonable at $49.99.
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:42- Categories:
- PS3 News,
- Nintendo Wii News,
- Xbox 360 News,
- Xbox News,
- DCEmu Reviews
XCM Universal YPbPr 1080p VGA Box
Manufacturer: XCM
Site: Buy from Play Asia / Buy from Divineo China / Buy from Amazon
Price: $59.00
Overview : A true universal VGA box compatible with the new generation consoles on todays market (Xbox 360, Playstation 3, Wii) and also with Xbox.
Compatible with both PAL and NTSC system, it is available with European or US power supply. A plug and play installation will give you Ypbpr input with all consoles, now with a 1080p resolution!
Features :
- High quality 3rd party product.
- Fully Compatible with all component devices - e.g. x-box, x-box 360, PSX3, Wii, DVD players, etc...
- Compatible with PAL or NTSC system.
- Double scan conversion (31.5KHz for NTSC, 31.25KHz for PAL,67.5KHz for 1080p).
- Output resolution ; up to 1080p
- Plug and play installation.
- Connect compatible YPbPr device to your VGA monitor.
- Integrated YPbPr to RGBHV converter.
- Supports 480p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p.
- Applications: TFT LCD monitor, CRT monitor, Set-top box, Display projector.
- Works on LCD TFT monitors.
- Video output: VGA.
- Automatic video source mode detection (film/graphic).
- Motion-adaptive interfiled de-interlacing.
- Get the power from USB port of consoles or PC, no extra power supply needed.
- Comes with 3 component cables - PSX3, Wii & XB360.
Quality/Usability : The XCM 1080p allows you to hook up your PS3/Wii/Xbox360 computer monitor via VGA. With all the new consoles and the ability to output into high-definition, and the high costs of HDTV's, not everyone has them. But we actually do...our computer monitors.
Included in the package, you'll find the following items:
- XCM 1080p VGA box unit
- USB to USB-miniB cable
- Component cables:
- Wii (non-shielded)
- Xbox360 (shielded, includes optical digital audio connector)
- PS3 (shielded)
- Instruction booklet
Unfortunately, no VGA cable was included. This was probably due to cost factor. Had XCM included the cable, price of the product would of been higher. So to keep the price down, they didnt include the VGA cable.
Like all cables that XCM releases, they are sturdy and high quality cables. You will not be disappointed.
The VGA box itself is also sturdy and well built. The outer casing is made of opaque clear plastic. The connectors are standard quality and nothing special. Something caught my eye though. Under the VGA CARD slot, although the connection is a male connector, there was a female type connector. This connector uses the two screws similar to that when you're connecting your monitor to your video card on your PC. You can see it in the image below but on the mock up images, you dont see it. To fix this problem, simply remove the shield around it so that you can connect the cable.
Before purchasing this product, you must know that the VGA box does not change the output resolution. So you should check your monitor to see if it supports the resolution you are going to be used.
Connecting everything to the VGA box is fairly simple and is explained easily in the instruction manual. On top of the box is a switch that allows you to switch between VGA and COMPONENT. The front has a MONITOR and VGA CARD port. On the back, it has YPbPr inputs. To the left are SOUND IN, SPEAKER OUT and 480p~1080p/1080i switch. And on the right side is the USB POWER port to power the VGA box.
All images looked crisp and I didnt have a problem with any of the consoles. Just remember that the Wii can not upscale images as it is not capable of doing so.
Conclusion : Overall, the XCM Universal YPbPr 1080p VGA Box is a useful product for those who do not have HDTV. It would of been great if they included the VGA cable as the box allows you to switch video signals. So you can use video signal from your console or connect to your PC's video card to output to your monitor. Its understandable that they left it out to keep costs low. If you have an extra VGA cable around the house, you wont have to worry.
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:42- Categories:
- PS3 News,
- Nintendo Wii News,
- Xbox 360 News,
- DCEmu Reviews
DecalGirl Guitar Hero 3 Controller Skin
Manufacturer: DecalGirl
Site: Buy from DecalGirl
Price: $14.99 (available for Wii, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3)
Overview : Dress up your Guitar Hero™ III Gibson Les Paul Guitar controller with a luscious, full-color guitar skin kit from DecalGirl! The brilliant, high resolution, full color design is digitally printed on premium adhesive-backed cast vinyl then covered with a clear protectant layer for the ultimate in durability! An innovative repositionable, removable adhesive means no air bubbles and a fast, easy and accurate installation. As always, the skin can be removed at any time without leaving any sticky residue! Each kit includes a head stock skin and (for Wii versions) a matching skin for the Wii remote controller.
Quality/Usability : With Guitar Hero 1 and Guitar Hero 2, you were unable to change the faceplate of the guitar. Only way to customize it was by doing it yourself with paint or other means. When Guitar Hero 3 came out, RedOctane allowed gamers to customize their guitar by being able to change the faceplates. Unfortunately, some faceplates were just hideous looking.
DecalGirl jumped on the Guitar Hero train and produced skins for the Wii and PS3/Xbox 360 guitars. DecalGirl is well-known for their high quality vinyl skins. Skins produced by DecalGirl are vibrant in color and durable. There are a lot of skins to choose from and there will be some that will catch your eyes. You can even match all your consoles such as DS, Wii, Xbox 360, etc. to have the same skin.
The Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 guitars are similar in size and style. However, since the Wii guitar requires the Wiimote to be placed into the guitar and there is an opening in the faceplate, the Wii gets a skin for the controller as well to match. The vinyl skin comes all on one sheet. The sheet also includes the fret and fret dots.
To apply the console skin, I started with the biggest piece which was the faceplate. Considering its rounded all around, I didnt have a specific spot to start from. However, I did make sure that one side was aligned before smoothing out the remaining area. Considering the skins are fairly big, it should not be a problem applying the skin. There are a couple of ways to smooth out the skin. You can use a credit card or something similar, your fingers or a rag. I personally use my fingers first to set the skin in place and use a rag to flatten and smooth the skin out. I dont use a card because it has sharp edges/corners and if there is a small hard particle that got trapped underneath the skin, it can ruin the skin.
Applying the fret vinyl skin was also fairly easy. There are six small circles that you'll need to poke out. I started with the bottom of the fret and worked my way up (end). Once all the main pieces have been applied, you have the option of going all out and adding colored fret dot vinyl skins. There are nine colors to choose from and each has 6 dots.
Those who have the Wii version, installing the controller skin is very easy as well. Just start anywhere by matching up the corners and work your way around the controller and you should be set.
Conclusion : Overall, the DecalGirl Guitar Hero 3 Controller Skin gives the guitar a sweet look to it. Installation is very simple and clean. I love the fact that DecalGirl also includes vinyl skin for the fret and fret dots. It would of been nice if DecalGirl included maybe vinyl skins for the fret buttons as well.
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