Top loader NES advice

[Jak Telan]

Hey guys! First off, I'm new, and I hope I'm not posting this in the wrong section or something (seems like it could also fit into one of the marketplace sections, considering it involves financial advice, but whatever). That out of the way, onto business. I'm looking for a Top-loader NES. I have the side-loader now, but pins are quickly getting bent out of shape, and frankly I'm a bit too nervous about my NES to do any major console surgery. If it comes to that, I will, but I heard that top-loaders have much less of an issue with reading carts and pins getting bent, because the cartridge isn't getting pushed down to bend the pins around.

What this boils down to is that I've found several top-loaders. The cheapest of which is this, http://www.retrogamefan.com/servlet/the ... ent/Detail The Retro Entertainment System. It seems legitimate, but the $20.00 price tag is making me a bit nervous, considering the average top loader that I've seen runs for about $80.00 to $100.00.

I'd much rather have one of these. http://www.nintendosforsale.com/nintend ... 11700.html However, that $140.00 dollar price tag really hurts the wallet.

I would really prefer something that has NES controller ports (The classic box controllers, not the dog bone, but I'll deal with what I can get.) And I'd definitely prefer RCA plugs, but I'll take what I can get. Can anyone help me out?

[StephPlusPlus]

Before all is said and done, make sure it's the system's problem, not a problem with your games. Clean them with rubbing alcohol, wait a few minutes, and see if that rectifies the problem. If not, read on.

You have two options:
- replace the 72-pin connector yourself or have a service or someone else do it for you
- replace the machine

Option 1
I've never replaced the connector on my NES or had a service do it, so I can't give you any input here. However, I believe there are many places where you can find resources (videos, how-tos) to help you. Also, the 72-pin connector isn't expensive (~$10) and you can keep your original NES.
It's good to note you don't need a special screwdriver to get into an NES.

Option 2
You have two options if you want to replace your NES/add to your collection: buy the original NES system or a clone system. It's a matter of personal choice.

One thing you have to keep in mind about American top loaders is that there is no A/V output, just RF. The downside to this is a not as good picture. But, it is reliable.

Here's a Top Loader with 2 controllers and a light gun. It's cheaper. (About $80, free shipping) I've done business with Lukie Games before, and they have good customer service. Also, a 90-day warranty.
http://www.lukiegames.com/nes-nintendo- ... ystem.html

I have heard of people getting the Japanese version of the top loader, called the Famicom A/V, I believe. To play their American games, they get a NES to Famicom converter, but I do not personally have any experience with this, either.

I've never actually used a clone device before, but if you do decide to go that route, take a look at this article from RacketBoy.
http://www.racketboy.com/retro/nintendo ... ctwin.html

Whatever you do, don't buy that overpriced Top Loader! Make sure to shop around after you figure out what you want. You may find a good deal or a certain store was overpriced.

EDIT: Whoops, fixed the link. Oh, and welcome to RacketBoy!

[Jak Telan]

I really appreciate it! Thanks for the help.

[flamepanther]

RetroBit makes some of the best NES clones, but you're still better off with something authentic. Before you go buying a whole new console, I would definitely urge you to take a good look into connector replacements. The NES you've already got is incredibly easy to take apart and reassemble, and the parts are much more affordable than even the cheapest clone console. Usually the replacement connectors are tight enough that you will no longer have to push the games down and wear out the new pins. Unlike most console modifications or repairs, it takes almost no skill, very little effort, and not much of your time--maybe 10 to 20 minutes depending on how quick you are with a standard cross-head screwdriver.

Best of luck finding a solution you like!

[Dr_Subtitles]

Step 1: Buy Sega Genesis
Step 2: Buy Dreamcast
Step 3: Buy Alot of Games
Step 4: Win.
Step 5: Step 6
Step 6: Step 7
Step 7: Step 8
Step 8: Step 9
Step 9: Step 10
Step 10: Spend less money than it costs to buy that top loader.

[BoringSupreez]

Step 1: Buy Sega Genesis
Step 2: Buy Dreamcast
Step 3: Buy Alot of Games
Step 4: Win.
Step 5: Step 6
Step 6: Step 7
Step 7: Step 8
Step 8: Step 9
Step 9: Step 10
Step 10: Spend less money than it costs to buy that top loader.

The OP wants an NES. Sega can't fill the gaping void that the NES is meant to fill in one's heart.

[Czernobog]

It's extremely easy to replace the 72-pin connector in the original NES. You really just need to know how to use a Phillips screwdriver.

That being said, I love my top-loader to death, but it's a bigger hassle to mod that thing up to composite from RF then it is to just replace the original's connecter.

The top-loader is very resilient and reliable but the drop in image quality is hard not to notice.

EDIT: Oh, and welcome to the forums!

[Satoshi_Matrix]

the top loader is SO much better than the toaster you wont regret buying one.

I HIGHLY recommend you buy a composite modded NES-101 for a guy who goes by the name of akaviolence. hes been making NES-101 composite mods for years and claims to have been made thousands of NES-101 av mods over the years. He charges decent prices and does a VERY good job. You can contact him directly via his email and get a custom order.

He can also:
-Add an LED to the power switch making it easier to tell when the system is on
-Add duel mono "pseudo stereo" sound
-Add a mixing pot to devide the four sound channels so only two go to each speaker, making NES games have "surround sound"
-Add an overclock switch

I had all that done, plus got two authentic dogbone controllers for (I think) around $150. Youc an't beat that price for the quality of the job. He'll charge less if you need less, just email him and tell him Brady sent ya.

Here's his site where you can check out the details and info. Again, this guy does one hell of a job. You should buy from him.

http://www.game-tech.us/pmwiki/pmwiki.p ... STopLoader

[vlame]

get a retron3, ive seen it work really well.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

No, please believe me, a Retorn 3 might be a great SNES stand-in and a passable Genesis stand in, but its NOT a good stand in for a real Nintendo Entertainment System. I have a Retorn 3 and I like it, but not for NES. It's an NOAC (Nintendo on a Chip) and not a very good one unless you buy the very very newest ones.

Seriously dude, don't buy any Famiclone unless you do not care about accuracy, compatibility or screen clarity. A modded toploader is a lot more expensive, but totally, totally worth it. The NES is also a tank that uses a 9v AC adapter - that means it can be powered by just about any other power supply, AC or DC, 9v or 12. the 7805 voltage regulator in an NES makes it beastly.