Choosing an Aq+
In which we determine which type of Aquarius+ is best for your needs
Abstract:
The Aquarius+ system comes in a variety of form factors and price-points, ranging from the completely assembled Aquarius+ Signature Edition down to the PCB-only version of the Aquarius+ Mini. Below are the current options, along with pros and cons for each.
Aquarius+ Standard Signature Edition
Pros
Fully assembled & tested
Includes legacy Aquarius Ports: cartridge, controllers, printer, cassette
Includes SD Card & USB Micro cable
Aquarius+ Mini Signature Edition
Pros
Cost-effective
Fully assembled & tested
Includes SD Card & USB Micro cable
Smaller footprint / easier to store and transport
Aquarius+ Standard PCB (Populated)
Pros
More cost-effective
Fully tested
Includes legacy Aquarius Ports: cartridge, controllers, printer, cassette
Cons
Enclosure not included (system SHOULD be operated within an enclosure)
Does not include SD card or USB Micro cable
Popular (often out of stock)
*Ordering through PCBWay requires a minimum order quantity of five PCBs, and typically takes 30-45 days to manufacture. Click here for a video on the manufacturing process.
Aquarius+ Mini PCB (Populated)
Pros
Very Cost-effective
Fully tested
US$109 (eBay)
Cons
Enclosure not included (system SHOULD be operated within an enclosure)
Does not support legacy Aquarius hardare components
Does not include SD card or USB Micro cable
Aquarius+ Emulator
Pros
FREE!
Works on Windows, macOS, & Linux
Frequently updated
Portable: take it with you on your laptop!
Cons
No physical hardware to show off!
Windows emulator doesn't currently support networking options