Shopping for an Atari 2600...

[racketboy]

So obviously, I checked the Atari 101 post first, but the hardware variation section didn't really mention many advantages/disadvantages between them.

When deciding on a model to get, does it mostly come down to athetics?
I'm mainly trying to decide between a Woodie and a Vader model...

Any other things to keep in mind?

[noiseredux]

I'm no expert, as I haven't my 2600 in yearrrrrrrs. But I think if you get a 7800 then you play those games AND 2600 games on it.

[Hatta]

Yes, as far as the 2600 goes it's just aesthetics. Collectors like the heavy sixer because it was the first, looks slightly more imposing than the later revisions. There are a few games which use the console switches as controls, and it's nice having all six on the front for that reason. The 4 switch models have the 2 other switches on the back, so those games are still playable.

When it comes to the four switch woody and the vader, it's 100% aesthetics.

[eSPy]

I'm no expert, as I haven't my 2600 in yearrrrrrrs. But I think if you get a 7800 then you play those games AND 2600 games on it.

yep! that is true. ive got the 2600/Jr/Vader model and think its form factor is great. was quite a sleek system for the time and still is. I believe that it had the exact same specs as the original minus the luxurious wood veneer and metal toggle switches.

[Dakinggamer87]

Yes, as far as the 2600 goes it's just aesthetics. Collectors like the heavy sixer because it was the first, looks slightly more imposing than the later revisions. There are a few games which use the console switches as controls, and it's nice having all six on the front for that reason. The 4 switch models have the 2 other switches on the back, so those games are still playable.

When it comes to the four switch woody and the vader, it's 100% aesthetics.

I picked up a woody Atari 2600 just because I like the overall look better. It definitely comes down to aesthetics preference. I have used all the different models and I don't notice any major differences in hardware aside from switches and cosmetics.

[CRTGAMER]

I'm no expert, as I haven't my 2600 in yearrrrrrrs. But I think if you get a 7800 then you play those games AND 2600 games on it.

2nd on getting the 7800. Or you can go nuts and get a 5200 with the 2600 adaptor.

[Anapan]

I'm waiting on a couple of parts I ordered, but I'm going to mod an Atari Flashback 2 to load carts. They're cheap (the parts to do the mod are too), come with brand-new joysticks, and have composite video out of the box.

[Prcssr32]

I remember reading somewhere about the ones made in 80-82 that seem to be less resilient to static, mostly from being played on carpet. Those are the four switch woodies. However my "Vader" has held up fine. If you do get one try to get a shielded manual switch box (if you want to watch tv as well) or use a direct rf adaptor. Automatic switch boxes do not work with the 2600.

[flojocabron]

it really doesnt matter which one you choose, just be sure its nice and clean. I'm pretty sure they all work fine after 30+ years.

One thing that may not be too good after that is where the rom goes in to the console. They may have to be cleaned ( I have no idea how). Sometimes when you put a game in there may be strange, fuzzy lines on your screen. Either that or its caused by the switch box.

Just take care of the accessories that come with it. those are harder to come by.

One thing that doesnt last that long are the paddle controllers! They wear out, and no longer respond properly. They can be repaired, but they are common.

The A/C adapters are hard to come by as well, at least where I live. the wires are extra long and If youre not careful could get damaged or burnt out.

Check the switch boxes as well, some dont work right and they make funny things on the screen.

they are quite sturdy anyways

[Czernobog]

I've been pretty happy with my 7800. It's nice to be able to play both the 7800 and 2600 games without issue. The only thing I don't like is the default U.S. 7800 controller, so I ended up getting paddle controllers for the thing and will be keeping my eyes out for any cheap 2600 Joysticks. I did notice it only has three switches instead of the 2600's four though, but that hasn't been an issue.