Analogue Duo Review

The Analogue Duo stands out as a remarkable piece of hardware, offering a truly authentic and high-definition way to revisit the TurboGrafx-16, PC Engine, and SuperGrafx eras. It’s not just an emulator.

It’s a meticulously engineered FPGA-based system designed to deliver pixel-perfect recreations of classic games with zero lag, providing an experience that often surpasses the original consoles on modern displays.

For serious collectors and enthusiasts who prioritize accuracy and convenience, the Duo delivers on its promises, consolidating multiple retro consoles into one sleek, powerful device.

However, its premium features come with a premium price tag, making it a significant investment.

The Analogue Duo aims to be the definitive solution for playing HuCard and CD-ROM titles from the PC Engine/TurboGrafx-16 family. Unlike software emulation, which can introduce latency and visual inaccuracies, the Duo leverages Field-Programmable Gate Array FPGA technology. This means the console’s hardware is reconfigured at a low level to mimic the original system’s chips precisely, resulting in an incredibly faithful reproduction of the gaming experience. From the vibrant sprites of Bonk’s Adventure to the intricate animations of Castlevania: Rondo of Blood, the Duo ensures that every pixel is rendered as intended, often with enhanced visual output options for today’s high-definition televisions. It’s a love letter to a cherished era of gaming, crafted for those who demand uncompromising fidelity.

Feature/Product	Analogue Duo	Mister FPGA	Retron 5	Evercade EXP	Nintendo Switch	Raspberry Pi 4	PlayStation Classic
Core Technology	FPGA	FPGA	Software Emulation	Emulation Handheld	Proprietary Hardware	Software Emulation DIY	Software Emulation Mini
Supported Consoles	TurboGrafx-16, PC Engine, SuperGrafx, CD-ROM²	Many via Cores	NES, SNES, Genesis, GB, GBC, GBA, Famicom, Super Famicom, Mega Drive, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance	Cartridge-based various	Modern & Select Classics Digital	Many via RetroArch	PlayStation 1 Pre-loaded
Media Type	Original Cartridges & CDs	ROMs	Original Cartridges	Proprietary Cartridges	Digital Downloads	ROMs	Digital Pre-loaded
Output Resolution	Up to 1080p/4K	Up to 1080p	720p	Handheld Screen	Up to 1080p TV	Up to 4K	720p/1080p
Lag	Near-Zero	Near-Zero	Noticeable	Minimal	Minimal	Varies software/setup	Noticeable
Price Point	Premium	Moderate-High DIY	Moderate	Affordable	Moderate	Low DIY	Low
Target Audience	Collectors, Purists	DIY Enthusiasts, Purists	Casual Retro Gamers	Retro Enthusiasts Curated	Mainstream Gamers	Hobbyists, Budget Gamers	Casual Retro Gamers

The Philosophy of Analogue: FPGA vs. Software Emulation

When you dive into the world of retro gaming, you quickly encounter two main approaches to revisiting classic hardware: software emulation and FPGA Field-Programmable Gate Array replication. Analogue, with devices like the Duo, firmly plants its flag in the FPGA camp, and understanding why is key to appreciating their products.

Software Emulation: Think of software emulation as a translator. A program running on a modern computer or console attempts to understand and execute the instructions originally intended for a specific piece of retro hardware. It’s akin to reading a book in a different language through a translation app. While often good enough for casual play, this method has inherent limitations:

• Latency: There’s an unavoidable delay as the software interprets and processes the original code. This can manifest as input lag, where there’s a slight but perceptible delay between pressing a button and the action appearing on screen. For twitch-based games like R-Type or Blazing Lazers, this can be a real issue.
• Accuracy: Emulators are rarely 100% accurate. Developers make educated guesses or approximations for how certain obscure hardware features worked. This can lead to minor graphical glitches, sound inaccuracies, or even subtle differences in game physics that weren’t present on the original hardware.
• System Overhead: Emulators require significant processing power, and even then, they’re not directly replicating the hardware. they’re simulating it.

FPGA Replication: This is where Analogue shines. FPGA is a reconfigurable microchip. Instead of writing software to simulate a chip, you literally describe the logic of the original chip and program the FPGA to behave like it. It’s like having a universal circuit board that can transform itself into the actual circuitry of a TurboGrafx-16.

• Hardware-Level Accuracy: Because the FPGA is mimicking the actual logic gates and pathways of the original hardware, it offers an incredibly high degree of accuracy, often described as “hardware-perfect.” This means every bug, every quirk, every subtle visual effect is replicated precisely.
• Near-Zero Latency: Since the FPGA is operating at the hardware level, there’s virtually no processing overhead or translation delay. Input lag is reduced to the bare minimum, often imperceptible, replicating the responsiveness of the original console.
• Future-Proofing: While it still requires firmware updates, the underlying logic is so close to the original that it offers a highly stable and reliable platform for decades to come, independent of operating system changes or software library updates.

Why Analogue Chooses FPGA: Analogue’s dedication to FPGA isn’t just about technical prowess. it’s about preservation and authenticity. They believe that true retro gaming should be experienced as close to the original as possible, without the compromises often found in software emulation. For many enthusiasts, this distinction is paramount, especially when playing games that demand precise timing and responsiveness. It’s the difference between hearing a live orchestra and listening to a recording—both are podcast, but one offers an unadulterated, immediate experience.

Design and Build Quality: A Premium Experience

From the moment you unbox the Analogue Duo, it’s clear that this isn’t just another plastic box. Analogue has a reputation for crafting premium, boutique-level hardware, and the Duo continues this tradition with impressive fidelity. The design ethos is one of minimalist elegance, reminiscent of high-end audio equipment rather than a typical game console.

• Materials: The chassis is typically constructed from high-quality plastics with a matte finish, often complemented by metal accents. It feels solid and substantial in your hands, far from the flimsy feel of some mass-produced electronics. This isn’t a console you’ll worry about scratching just by looking at it.
• Form Factor: The Duo maintains a relatively compact footprint, though it’s certainly larger than some of Analogue’s other offerings like the Pocket. Its design is clean, with subtle branding and strategically placed vents for optimal airflow, which is crucial for internal components during extended play sessions.
• Port Placement and Design: All ports—HDMI, USB, power—are neatly integrated and precisely aligned. There’s no wobbly USB port or misaligned HDMI connector here. The cartridge slot for HuCards is designed for smooth insertion and removal, and the CD-ROM drive mechanism feels robust, not cheap or flimsy.

Attention to Detail: It’s the small things that often speak volumes about build quality.

• Buttons and Switches: Any buttons or switches on the console like the power button have a satisfying click and tactile feedback. They don’t feel mushy or cheap.
• LED Indicators: The power and activity LEDs are often subtly integrated and provide clear status indicators without being overly bright or distracting.
• Packaging: Even the packaging is designed to enhance the premium feel. The console is usually nestled securely in custom-cut foam, and accompanying cables or manuals are neatly presented. This attention to detail reinforces the idea that you’re investing in a high-end product.

Durability: While no consumer electronics product is truly indestructible, the Analogue Duo is built to last. The choice of materials and the precision manufacturing process suggest that the console is designed for years of reliable operation, provided it’s treated with reasonable care. This is a significant consideration for a product intended for game preservation, where longevity is key. You’re not just buying a console. you’re buying a piece of hardware designed to withstand the test of time and provide a consistent, high-quality experience for your classic game collection.

Connectivity and Output Options: Modern Fidelity for Retro Games

One of the Analogue Duo’s most compelling features is its ability to bridge the gap between classic gaming hardware and modern display technology. While original TurboGrafx-16 and PC Engine consoles outputted low-resolution analog signals composite, S-Video, RGB, the Duo offers crystal-clear digital output specifically designed for today’s HD and 4K televisions.

• HDMI Output: This is the primary output. The Duo provides 1080p HDMI output as standard, allowing games to be displayed without the blurry, jagged pixels often associated with upscaling analog signals. It can even be configured for 4K display modes, though the native resolution of these retro games means the pixel count isn’t truly 4K. rather, the Duo renders pixels as sharp, integer-scaled blocks within a 4K canvas. This results in incredibly clean, pixel-perfect visuals.
• Aspect Ratio Control: Crucially, the Duo offers robust aspect ratio control. You can choose between:
  • Original Aspect Ratio: Displays games in their correct 4:3 aspect ratio with black bars on the sides of a widescreen TV. This is generally recommended for authenticity.
  • Full Screen Stretched: Stretches the image to fill the entire 16:9 screen. While some prefer this, it distorts the original art.
  • Pixel Perfect: Renders each pixel as a perfectly square block, which may result in minor borders but guarantees uncompromised visual integrity.
• Scaling Options: Beyond aspect ratio, the Duo offers advanced scaling options. You can fine-tune the integer scaling, allowing you to choose how many times each original pixel is multiplied. This avoids non-integer scaling artifacts that can cause shimmering or uneven pixels.
• Scanline Filters: For those who crave the nostalgic look of CRT televisions, the Duo includes highly customizable scanline filters. These aren’t just simple overlays. they are sophisticated digital recreations of the scanlines found on cathode ray tube displays, complete with adjustable intensity, width, and curvature. This allows users to dial in a retro aesthetic without sacrificing clarity.
• Audio Output: The HDMI connection also carries high-fidelity digital audio. This means you’re getting clean, uncolored sound from your games, free from the hums and interference often present in analog audio outputs from older consoles.

In essence, the Analogue Duo takes the raw, low-resolution output of a 1980s or 990s console and transforms it into a stunning, modern presentation that looks fantastic on a large flat-panel display.

It’s a testament to Analogue’s commitment to delivering the best possible retro gaming experience without compromise.

Game Compatibility and Region Free Play: Unlocking Your Collection

One of the primary reasons to invest in an Analogue Duo is its unparalleled game compatibility across the entire TurboGrafx-16/PC Engine family. Unlike original hardware which often had region locks, the Duo is designed to be region-free right out of the box.

• HuCard Compatibility: The Duo natively supports all HuCards from both the Japanese PC Engine and the North American TurboGrafx-16. This includes games like:

  • Blazing Lazers TurboGrafx-16
  • Bomberman ’93 TurboGrafx-16
  • Military Madness TurboGrafx-16
  • Darius Alpha PC Engine
  • Splatterhouse PC Engine
  • Akumajō Dracula X: Chi no Rondo PC Engine Super CD-ROM² – This is a CD game, but worth noting the platform’s breadth.

  You simply insert your physical HuCard into the slot, and the Duo reads it directly.

No modifications, no adapters unless you’re using specific Japanese-only accessories that aren’t games.

• CD-ROM Compatibility: This is where the Duo truly shines, as it integrates a fully functional CD-ROM drive. It supports:

  • PC Engine CD-ROM²
  • Super CD-ROM²
  • Arcade Card CD-ROMs

  This means you can play iconic CD-based titles such as:

  • Castlevania: Rondo of Blood PC Engine Super CD-ROM²
  • Snatcher PC Engine Super CD-ROM²
  • Ys Book I & II PC Engine CD-ROM²
  • Lords of Thunder PC Engine Super CD-ROM²

  The Duo reads original game discs directly, offering the authentic experience with the benefit of modern video output.

• SuperGrafx Support: The Duo is also compatible with the rarer SuperGrafx console’s library. While there were only five dedicated SuperGrafx games released plus two hybrid titles, the Duo ensures you can play them, such as:

  • Aldynes
  • Battle Ace

  This broad compatibility makes it a single solution for virtually every game released on these platforms.

• EverDrive Support: For those who prefer the convenience of ROM loading or have flash carts, the Analogue Duo is generally compatible with popular EverDrive flash carts designed for the TurboGrafx-16/PC Engine. This allows you to load entire game libraries onto a single SD card, further enhancing convenience.

• Region Free by Design: The Analogue Duo is designed to be region-free. This means you don’t have to worry about whether a Japanese PC Engine HuCard will work on a North American TurboGrafx-16 Duo, or vice-versa. It removes the hassle and expense of acquiring region-specific consoles or modification kits, making it incredibly convenient for collectors with diverse libraries.

• Future Updates: Analogue often releases firmware updates that can further enhance compatibility or fix any minor issues that arise. This commitment to ongoing support ensures the Duo remains a robust and reliable platform for years to come.

The Analogue Duo truly lives up to its promise of being the ultimate all-in-one solution for the TurboGrafx/PC Engine family, letting you enjoy your entire physical game collection with unprecedented ease and visual fidelity.

User Interface and Experience: Simplicity and Control

One of the often-unsung heroes of Analogue’s products is their intuitive and minimalist user interface UI, and the Duo is no exception. Unlike complex, multi-layered menus found in some other retro devices, Analogue’s approach prioritizes simplicity, speed, and direct control over your gaming experience.

• Clean and Uncluttered Design: When you power on the Analogue Duo, you’re greeted with a clean, understated menu. There are no distracting animations, excessive graphics, or promotional banners. The focus is squarely on functionality. The background is typically a solid color or a subtle texture, allowing text and options to stand out clearly.
• Easy Navigation: Navigating the UI is straightforward. You typically use the directional pad and action buttons on your connected controller. The menu structure is logical and shallow, meaning you’re rarely more than a few button presses away from the setting you want to change.
• Core Functions Accessible: The main menu typically presents options for:
  • Playing a Game: If a HuCard or CD is inserted, it will often automatically detect it or present an option to launch it.
  • System Settings: This is where you’ll find all the configuration options for video, audio, controller mapping, and system information.
  • About: Information about the firmware version and device.
• Detailed Video Options: Within the settings, the video options are particularly robust yet easy to understand:
  • Resolution: Selectable output resolutions e.g., 1080p, 4K.
  • Aspect Ratio: Toggle between original, stretched, and pixel-perfect.
  • Scaling: Fine-tune integer scaling.
  • Scanlines: Enable and customize scanline appearance intensity, type, phase. This is where you can truly dial in that CRT aesthetic.
  • Frame Blending: Options for handling specific visual effects or frame rates.
• Controller Mapping: The Duo supports a variety of controllers, both wired and wireless via adapters or specific USB controllers. The UI allows for easy remapping of buttons, ensuring you can configure your preferred controller exactly how you like it for each game or globally.
• Firmware Updates: The UI also facilitates firmware updates via an SD card. This process is typically very simple: download the update file from Analogue’s website, place it on the root of an SD card, insert the card into the Duo, and follow the on-screen prompts. Analogue often releases updates that improve compatibility, add features, or refine performance.
• SD Card Integration for Firmware & Future Features: While the Duo primarily relies on physical media, the SD card slot is essential for firmware updates. In other Analogue products, the SD card also enables “Jailbreak” firmwares that allow for loading ROMs, though Analogue doesn’t officially endorse or support these. For the Duo, its primary purpose is system maintenance and potential future expansions.

In essence, the Analogue Duo’s UI is a masterclass in elegant design.

It provides all the necessary controls and customization without ever feeling overwhelming or getting in the way of the core gaming experience.

It’s built for gamers who want to plug in, select their options, and immediately jump into their favorite retro titles with minimal fuss.

Controller Support: Bridging Generations

A console is only as good as its controllers, and the Analogue Duo offers flexible solutions to ensure you can play your games comfortably, whether you prefer modern wireless gamepads or authentic retro input.

• Original Controller Ports: The Duo typically features original PC Engine / TurboGrafx-16 controller ports. This is a huge win for purists, as it allows you to use your original, official controllers. For many, the tactile feel and responsiveness of the original TurboPad or Avenue Pad Pro are irreplaceable parts of the retro experience. This also means you can utilize authentic accessories like the Turbo Tap for multi-player games.
• USB Controller Support: For those who prefer modern convenience or don’t own original controllers, the Duo usually includes USB ports. This opens up a vast world of contemporary controllers, including:
  • 8BitDo Controllers: Particularly popular among retro gamers, 8BitDo often releases controllers designed with a retro aesthetic and feel but with modern wireless capabilities. Many of their USB dongles or direct USB-C wired connections are compatible.
  • Modern Console Controllers with Adapters: While not universally compatible out-of-the-box, some users have reported success with PlayStation or Xbox controllers via specific USB adapters, though this can vary and may require community-developed drivers or specific firmware settings.
  • Generic USB Gamepads: Most standard HID-compliant USB gamepads should work, though mileage may vary with specialized features or drivers.
• Wireless Control: While Analogue hasn’t historically built in native Bluetooth for their core systems the Pocket is an exception with its dock, the presence of USB ports means you can use USB wireless adapters for popular controllers. For example, an 8BitDo Wireless USB Adapter can pair with a wide range of Bluetooth controllers including PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Switch Pro controllers, and other 8BitDo models and then connect to the Duo’s USB port, offering a seamless wireless experience.
• Controller Mapping: As mentioned in the UI section, the Analogue Duo’s firmware provides robust controller remapping options. This is essential, as different games or personal preferences might necessitate reassigning buttons. You can customize:
  • Individual button assignments.
  • Turbo functions if supported by the game/controller.
  • Saving multiple controller profiles.

The flexibility in controller support means that whether you’re a purist who insists on original hardware or someone who values the convenience of modern wireless gamepads, the Analogue Duo can accommodate your preferred play style without compromising on performance.

Pricing and Value Proposition: Is it Worth the Investment?

The Analogue Duo, like all of Analogue’s products, carries a premium price tag. This is often the first point of discussion and sometimes contention for prospective buyers. Understanding its value proposition requires looking beyond just the initial cost and considering what you’re actually getting.

• The Cost of Precision Engineering: Analogue products are not mass-produced budget devices. They are boutique, highly specialized pieces of hardware built with meticulous attention to detail and utilizing expensive FPGA technology. Developing these FPGA cores requires significant engineering expertise and time, as it involves reverse-engineering original chips at a very low level. This R&D cost is naturally passed on.

• FPGA vs. Software Emulation Again: This ties back to the core philosophy. You’re paying for hardware-level accuracy and near-zero latency, which is fundamentally different and more expensive to achieve than software emulation running on a cheap SoC System on a Chip. For purists and preservationists, this difference is quantifiable and justifies the price.

• Consolidation of Hardware: Consider the alternative: collecting original TurboGrafx-16, PC Engine, SuperGrafx, and CD-ROM² units, plus an expensive capture card for modern display, and potentially a region mod.

  • Original Console Costs: A working TurboGrafx-16 and PC Engine can run hundreds of dollars each. A SuperGrafx even more.
  • CD-ROM² Unit: These are notoriously prone to failure and can be very expensive to acquire and maintain.
  • Upscalers/Modifications: High-quality RGB mods and external upscalers like the OSSC or RetroTINK can add another $200-$400+ per console.
  • Maintenance: Original consoles are old. Capacitors fail, laser diodes wear out, and plastic yellows. Repairs and maintenance are ongoing costs.

  The Duo consolidates all of this into one reliable unit, saving you the hassle, space, and potentially the cumulative cost of piecing together an authentic setup.

• Resale Value and Collectibility: Analogue products, due to their limited production runs and high quality, tend to hold their value exceptionally well, sometimes even appreciating on the secondary market. This isn’t a guarantee, but it speaks to their desirability and the perceived long-term value.

• Target Audience: The Analogue Duo isn’t for everyone. It’s not aimed at the casual gamer who might be satisfied with a cheap emulator or a retro mini console. Its target audience is serious collectors, preservationists, and enthusiasts who demand the absolute best and are willing to pay for it. For this demographic, the value proposition is strong.

• A “Luxury” Item: It’s important to view the Analogue Duo as a luxury item within the retro gaming space. It offers a premium, no-compromise experience. If your budget is limited, or if you’re comfortable with the minor inaccuracies and latency of software emulation, then less expensive options like the Retron 5, Raspberry Pi 4 with RetroArch, or even a Nintendo Switch with its online classic libraries might be more suitable.

• Long-Term Investment: For those deeply invested in the TurboGrafx/PC Engine library, the Duo represents a long-term investment in game preservation and enjoyment. It’s a reliable, modern way to access an entire library of games without the headaches associated with aging original hardware.

Ultimately, the value of the Analogue Duo is subjective.

For its intended audience, its price is justified by the unparalleled accuracy, build quality, convenience, and commitment to preservation it offers.

It’s a tool for experiencing retro games in the closest possible way to their original form, but on a modern display, making it a compelling, albeit expensive, proposition.

Downsides and Considerations: Knowing What You’re Getting Into

While the Analogue Duo offers an unparalleled retro gaming experience for the TurboGrafx/PC Engine family, no product is without its drawbacks.

It’s important to have a clear understanding of these before making a significant investment.

• High Price Tag: This is arguably the biggest barrier for many. The Analogue Duo is a premium product with a premium price. It’s significantly more expensive than a typical software-based retro console or building a Raspberry Pi 4 setup. For casual players, this cost may be prohibitive, and they might find sufficient enjoyment from cheaper alternatives. You’re paying for specialized FPGA hardware, meticulous design, and limited production runs, not mass-market economies of scale.
• Availability: Analogue products are often produced in limited batches and can sell out quickly. This means securing a Duo might require vigilance, patience, or paying higher prices on the secondary market. This “FOMO” Fear Of Missing Out can sometimes drive impulsive purchases.
• Reliance on Original Media: While a huge plus for purists, the Duo primarily relies on original HuCards and CD-ROMs. If you don’t already own a substantial library, acquiring physical games can become a very expensive hobby, especially for rarer titles like Castlevania: Rondo of Blood on CD. This isn’t a downside of the Duo itself, but a necessary consideration for anyone looking to build a collection around it.
• No Built-in ROM Support Officially: Unlike some other FPGA solutions like Mister FPGA or software emulators, the Analogue Duo does not officially support loading game ROMs directly from an SD card. While unofficial “jailbreak” firmwares often emerge that enable this functionality, Analogue does not endorse or guarantee these. This means you primarily need physical media or a flash cart like an EverDrive to play games.
• Lack of Pre-loaded Games: The Duo comes with no pre-loaded games. You need to supply your own. This stands in contrast to mini consoles like the PlayStation Classic or Nintendo Switch which offer curated digital libraries.
• No Analog Video Output: The Duo outputs exclusively via HDMI. While this is ideal for modern displays, it means you cannot easily connect it to a classic CRT television without external converters. For some retro enthusiasts, playing on a CRT is an essential part of the authentic experience.
• Limited Library Compared to Other Platforms: While the TurboGrafx/PC Engine library is fantastic and diverse, it’s not as expansive as, say, the NES, SNES, or Genesis. If you’re looking for a single console that plays everything retro, the Duo is specialized for one family of systems, making it a niche purchase.
• Potential for Minor Software Quirks Early Firmwares: As with any complex piece of hardware, initial firmware releases can sometimes have minor bugs or compatibility quirks that are later addressed in updates. While Analogue is generally good with support, it’s something to be aware of if you’re an early adopter.

Considering these points, the Analogue Duo remains an exceptional product for its target audience.

However, it’s crucial to weigh its benefits against these potential drawbacks to determine if it aligns with your specific needs, budget, and retro gaming philosophy.

It’s a significant investment, and like any serious purchase, doing your homework is key.

Future of Analogue and the Duo’s Longevity

Investing in a premium piece of hardware like the Analogue Duo naturally leads to questions about its long-term viability and the manufacturer’s commitment to support.

Analogue has, over the years, built a reputation for both meticulous engineering and a somewhat deliberate pace of product development and support.

• Track Record of Updates: Analogue has a history of releasing firmware updates for their products, including the Super Nt, Mega Sg, and Pocket. These updates often address minor bugs, improve compatibility with certain games or accessories, and occasionally add new features. This commitment suggests that the Duo will likely receive similar support throughout its lifecycle. These updates are typically delivered via SD card, a straightforward process for users.
• FPGA’s Inherent Longevity: The core of the Analogue Duo is its FPGA technology. Unlike software emulation which can be beholden to operating system changes or software library updates, FPGA hardware is much closer to the original console’s logic. This makes it inherently more future-proof in terms of replicating game behavior. As long as the physical components hold up, the Duo’s ability to accurately play games is unlikely to diminish.
• Robust Build Quality: As discussed earlier, Analogue products are built with high-quality materials and precision manufacturing. This isn’t designed to be a disposable gadget. The physical durability of the Duo itself suggests it’s made for years of reliable operation, standing up to repeated use.
• “Jailbreak” Firmware Community: While not officially supported by Analogue, a vibrant community often develops “jailbreak” firmwares for Analogue’s consoles. These unofficial firmwares typically enable the loading of ROMs from an SD card, expanding the functionality beyond physical media. The existence of such a community provides an additional layer of potential longevity and flexibility, even if it’s outside of Analogue’s direct control.
• Analogue’s Business Model: Analogue operates as a niche, boutique manufacturer. Their strategy isn’t about rapid iteration or annual releases. Instead, they focus on perfecting a specific console’s FPGA core and delivering a high-quality, definitive product. This deliberate approach, while sometimes leading to longer waits for new products, also implies a commitment to the longevity of their existing lineup. They are not likely to abandon support for a flagship product like the Duo quickly.
• Game Preservation Focus: Analogue’s mission aligns with game preservation. Their products are designed to make classic games accessible and playable on modern displays with the highest possible fidelity. This long-term vision underpins their product development and support.

In summary, the Analogue Duo is designed for longevity.

Its FPGA core, robust build, and Analogue’s track record of firmware updates suggest that it will remain a reliable and high-quality platform for enjoying your TurboGrafx/PC Engine collection for many years to come.

It’s an investment in a durable, accurate, and future-resistant way to experience these classic titles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Analogue Duo?

The Analogue Duo is a premium, FPGA-based video game console designed to accurately play games from the TurboGrafx-16, PC Engine, SuperGrafx, and their associated CD-ROM formats.

How does the Analogue Duo differ from software emulators?

The Analogue Duo uses FPGA Field-Programmable Gate Array technology to precisely replicate the original console hardware at a low level, resulting in hardware-perfect accuracy and near-zero input lag, unlike software emulators which simulate the hardware through software.

What consoles does the Analogue Duo support?

The Analogue Duo supports all HuCard and CD-ROM titles from the TurboGrafx-16 North America, PC Engine Japan, and SuperGrafx console families.

Can I play my original TurboGrafx-16/PC Engine games on the Analogue Duo?

Yes, the Analogue Duo is designed to play your original physical HuCards and CD-ROM discs directly.

Is the Analogue Duo region-free?

Yes, the Analogue Duo is region-free, meaning you can play games from any region North American TurboGrafx-16 or Japanese PC Engine without modification. Nasa Plus Review

What kind of video output does the Analogue Duo have?

The Analogue Duo outputs via HDMI, offering crystal-clear 1080p resolution and optional 4K display modes for modern televisions.

Does the Analogue Duo have input lag?

No, due to its FPGA architecture, the Analogue Duo boasts near-zero input lag, providing a highly responsive gaming experience identical to original hardware.

Can I connect the Analogue Duo to a CRT TV?

No, the Analogue Duo outputs exclusively via HDMI.

To connect it to a CRT, you would need an external HDMI-to-analog converter, which is not officially supported and may introduce lag.

What kind of controllers can I use with the Analogue Duo?

The Analogue Duo supports original TurboGrafx-16/PC Engine controllers via their native ports and also offers USB ports for compatibility with modern USB gamepads, including many 8BitDo controllers. Xreal Air 2 Review

Does the Analogue Duo come with games pre-loaded?

No, the Analogue Duo does not come with any games pre-loaded.

You need to supply your own physical HuCards and CD-ROMs.

Can I use flash carts like EverDrive with the Analogue Duo?

Yes, the Analogue Duo is generally compatible with popular TurboGrafx-16/PC Engine EverDrive flash carts, allowing you to play ROMs from an SD card.

Is there official support for loading ROMs directly from an SD card on the Analogue Duo?

No, Analogue does not officially support loading ROMs directly from an SD card.

Unofficial “jailbreak” firmwares often exist for this purpose, but they are not endorsed by Analogue. Geekom As6 Review

What is the price of the Analogue Duo?

The Analogue Duo is a premium product and typically has a premium price point, often several hundred dollars, reflecting its specialized technology and build quality.

Is the Analogue Duo worth the price?

For serious collectors, enthusiasts, and preservationists who demand hardware-level accuracy and zero-lag performance on modern displays, the Analogue Duo’s price is often justified by its superior quality and convenience compared to collecting and maintaining original hardware with external upscalers.

How durable is the Analogue Duo?

Analogue products are known for their high-quality build materials and precision manufacturing, suggesting the Duo is designed for long-term durability and reliable operation.

How are firmware updates handled for the Analogue Duo?

Firmware updates for the Analogue Duo are typically downloaded from Analogue’s website and installed by placing the file on an SD card and following on-screen prompts.

Can I customize video settings like scanlines on the Analogue Duo?

Yes, the Analogue Duo offers extensive video customization options, including highly detailed and adjustable scanline filters to replicate the look of CRT televisions. Omnifocus Review

Does the Analogue Duo support multiplayer?

Yes, by using original multi-tap accessories or compatible USB hubs with multiple controllers, the Analogue Duo supports multiplayer experiences for games that originally offered them.

Is the Analogue Duo easy to set up?

Yes, the Analogue Duo is generally plug-and-play.

You connect it to your TV via HDMI, plug in a controller, insert a game, and power it on. Its UI is designed to be intuitive.

Does the Analogue Duo upscale games?

The Analogue Duo outputs native pixel-perfect representations of the original games at higher resolutions like 1080p or 4K, rather than simply stretching or applying blur filters as cheaper upscalers might.

Where can I buy an Analogue Duo?

Analogue products are typically sold directly from their official website. Monoprice Stitch Outdoor 2 Outlet Smart Plug Review

Due to limited production runs, they can sometimes be difficult to acquire and may appear on secondary markets.

What accessories are recommended for the Analogue Duo?

Beyond the console itself, recommended accessories include original HuCards and CD-ROMs, a high-quality HDMI cable, and potentially a compatible flash cart like an EverDrive or preferred USB controllers.

How does the Analogue Duo compare to the Analogue Pocket?

The Analogue Pocket is a handheld device focused on Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance, with adapters for other cartridges.

The Analogue Duo is a home console specifically for the TurboGrafx/PC Engine family. Both use FPGA technology.

Can the Analogue Duo play Sega CD games?

No, the Analogue Duo is specifically designed for the TurboGrafx/PC Engine CD-ROM formats and cannot play Sega CD games. Benq X3100I Review

Does the Analogue Duo support save states?

No, like original hardware, the Analogue Duo does not offer save states.

Game saving relies on the original game’s internal battery saves or password systems.

What kind of audio output quality does the Analogue Duo provide?

The Analogue Duo provides high-fidelity digital audio output via HDMI, ensuring clean and accurate sound reproduction from the original games.

Does Analogue offer a warranty for the Duo?

Yes, Analogue typically offers a limited warranty for their products, covering manufacturing defects.

It’s best to check their official website for current warranty terms. Alienware Aw3225Qf 4K Qd Oled Review

Are there any known compatibility issues with certain games?

While Analogue strives for 100% compatibility, very rarely, a specific game or accessory might exhibit a minor quirk, which Analogue usually addresses via firmware updates. Overall compatibility is excellent.

Is the Analogue Duo suitable for casual retro gamers?

While excellent, the Analogue Duo’s premium price and focus on hardware accuracy might be overkill for casual retro gamers who may be satisfied with cheaper, software-emulation-based solutions. It’s best suited for enthusiasts.

What is the typical lead time for ordering an Analogue Duo?

Lead times can vary significantly based on stock availability.

Analogue often releases products in batches, and pre-orders can have long waiting periods.

Checking their official website for status updates is recommended. Benq X500I Review

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