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Macrokit SP
Score: 90%
Developer: MadCatz


Function:

Just like in the world of Barbie dolls, a new GameBoy means new accessories. Headphones, carrying cases, car adapters, and magnifying lens - you name it and some company is making it. In fact, I even saw that a certain nameless company is even working on replacement batteries. Sure, a few gamers may be miffed at Nintendo for releasing a new, backlit version of the GBA, but I'm sure the accessory companies don't mind it much.

One of the first companies to come out with some new toys for the GBA SP is Mad Catz. The Macrokit SP is a collection of several of Mad Catz's SP accessories including a headphone jack, headphones, a carrying case, and a car adapter.


Performance:

Overall, I was generally impressed with Macrokit SP. Since there is really no need for a light source anymore, the selection of goodies included in the pack seem to cover a gamer's every need when it comes to the GBA SP. The only thing that doesn't come with the kit is a magnifying lens, but if you're still having issues with the screen, it might not be a bad idea to visit Lens Crafters.

The carrying case is rather handy, and makes for a good storage medium for your SP. The outside of the case is made from a nice, hard plastic that can stand up to most punishment. It's not strong enough to take a few blows with a hammer, but it's good enough to keep its delicate cargo safe from the normal pitfalls of travel. The inside of the case features nice stiff, form-fitted foam similar to the briefcases you see in spy movies. The SP fits very snuggly in the case, but is still a cinch to remove. There's even a section to hold one or two games.

One of the biggest flaws with the SP is the lack of a headphone jack. While, like a majority of the gaming community, I'm convinced this was just so Nintendo would have yet another excuse to release another version of the GBA SP, they were nice enough to create a headphone adapter (sold separately). It should be noted that the Mad Catz adapter is currently the only one on the market (at least that I've seen), and it does its job. The adapter plugs securely into the power cord slot on the back of the SP and even includes a pass-though area for the power cord. The Macrokit SP also includes a set of headphones to use, which proved to be the kit's only main flaw, which I will go over in the Drawbacks section.

The car adapter works just as well as any other car adapter, so no real story there.


Features:
  • Heavy-duty, puncture and shock resistant protection for your GameBoy Advance SP
  • Special Y-Cable allowing for headset play while charging
  • Car Adapter connects to standard auto power outlets for GBA SP gamers on the go
  • Low profile design for easy storage
  • Stereo-sound headset with retractable wires

Drawbacks & Problems::

While most of the problems I had with the Macrokit SP were purely cosmetic, I did have a few technical problems with the headphones. The sound that comes out of the set is excellent, however the retractable wires were what gave me the most headaches. For one, the wires felt a tad weak to me, and every time I pulled them from the spool I always had this bad feeling that I might break them. I also didn't like the spool itself, since there was a tendency for the wires to just spill all over the place. There is also the lack of a retract button on the spool, meaning you have to pull on them like a window shade to retract them - furthering my caution when using the headset.

This minor problem aside, the Macrokit SP is a very handy little kit that should answer nearly every problem or complaint you may have with the GBA SP.


-Starscream, GameVortex Communications
AKA Ricky Tucker

Nintendo GameBoy Advance Battery Grip Nintendo GameBoy Advance Multi-Link Cable

 
Game Vortex :: PSIllustrated