Genesis:32X Model Differences

Page content & researching taken from io55.net's Genesis Add-Ons page with permission, in collaboration.

Models

Models are arranged chronologically. There are no revisions.

“32X MK-84000” (1994-????)

These 32Xs have some problems with Model 2 Genesis consoles of VA3 or 4 revisions. If nothing is plugged into the side expansion slot (typically used by the Sega CD), many 32X games will refuse to work. While one could plug a Sega CD in to resolve this issue, there is also a “32X Extension Unit” available, which simply filled that side slot with nothing. These may also have a narrower cartridge slot, but this needs to be verified with measurements.

“32X MK-84000A” (????-1996)

The compatibility issues with VA3 and VA4 Model 2 Genesis consoles have been fixed with this version. To identify this, just open the cart slot and see if the PCB’s code ends with “A”. Furthermore, these may have a slightly wider cartridge slot, but this needs to be verified with measurements.

References

https://gametrog.com/sega-32x-information-specs/ (incorrect on version differences, slightly)

https://www.reddit.com/r/SEGA32X/comments/24snek/i_recently_found_one_of_the_mysterious_32x/

https://www.reddit.com/r/SEGA32X/comments/e6qbcj/knuckles_chaotix_issues_with_sega_genesis_model_2/

https://www.reddit.com/r/SEGA32X/comments/9ryglb/question_about_the_32x/

https://www.reddit.com/r/SEGA32X/comments/4m9ol7/sega_32x_model_revision_region_bypass/

https://www.sega-16.com/forum/showthread.php?23611-How-can-you-tell-the-difference-between-the-32x-revisions-and-what-makes-the-2-units