Gameboy Macro Mod Tutorial 2020 - Easy to Follow Instructions - Boxy Pixel Shell | Retro Renew

Retro Renew Episode Description: Step-by-step tutorial on how to conduct the Gameboy Macro Mod using the Boxy Pixel Aluminum faceplate. This tutorial will go over several topics that you may run into while trying to modify your Nintendo DS Lite into a Game Boy Macro!
In today’s episode of Retro Renew, we’re going to revisit the Game Boy Macro! This is one of my favorite form factors for the Gameboy Advance. This episode is a follow up to my original Macro video, and provides more detailed instructions on how to do the mod along with some tips and tricks! Hopefully you find this video helpful when you plan to do your own Game Boy Macro mod! Links to all the parts needed for this mod can be found below.
So here's what you will find in this video:
► 0:00 Episode Prelude
► 1:04 Introduction to the Video and Episode Contents/Structure
► 2:30 Detailed overview of the parts needed for the mod
► 6:39 Modification Tutorial
► 17:51 Mod Complete! Congrats! No let’s talk about it
► 19:30 Lesson Learned
► 22:17 Comparison to other Game Boy Advance Consoles
► 23:40 How much did it cost?
► 26:43 Conclusion. Thank you for Watching!!
My first video on the Game Boy Macro mod: • Easiest and Best Looki...
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Refer to the links below for the needed parts and tools to accomplish this mod. All affiliate links are labeled and help support this channel.
Boxy Pixel Mod Links:
Boxy Pixel Game Boy Macro Faceplate - www.boxypixel.com/collections...
Boxy Pixel Glass Screen Lens - www.boxypixel.com/collections...
330 Ohm Resistor - www.boxypixel.com/collections...
Speaker - www.ifixit.com/Store/Game-Con...
Retro Modding Affiliate Links/Discounts:
SAVE 5% on any purchase from RETRO MODDING, including this IPS kit from FunnyPlaying when it’s available on their website, by using coupon code: MACHONACHO
SUPPORT THE CHANNEL by using my affiliate link to Retro Modding. It's a free way to support my channel. Thank you all so much!: bit.ly/39hHnz7
AMAZON Affiliate Links: Tools I use for Modifications
-EZ-Flash Omega - amzn.to/3hQlIDB - Best flash cart for the GBA!
-Solder FLUX I use - amzn.to/2CmPX4U
-XPOWER Electric Duster and Dryer - amzn.to/2Ylq6Dd
-Circuit Board Holder - amzn.to/2zV7VuC - This thing is Awesome and only $10!
-iFixit Toolkit I use for all my projects: amzn.to/2CnJEOt - Everything you need!
-Silicone Mat for soldering: amzn.to/314rc88
-28 AWG gauge wire: amzn.to/2Ni1V22
-Wire Stripper/Cutter: amzn.to/3hQ7fb2
-Flush Cutters: amzn.to/37P8rGV
-HAKKO Solder tip cleaner: amzn.to/2V2uaWU
Full disclosure, I get a small percentage of each sale that uses an affiliate link or coupon code. It’s a great way to help SUPPORT my channel at no cost to you so I can continue to make these videos for all of you, everyone wins! And as always, thank you for your continued support of my channel!
Intro Music by Matthew McCheskey:
-Website: matthewmccheskey.bandcamp.com/
#GameBoyMacro #GameBoyAdvance #BoxyPixel #retromod
DISCLAIMER: This video is only for entertainment purposes. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of tools, equipment, or from the information in this video is the sole responsibility of the viewer and is to be used at the discretion of the end user/viewer and not Macho Nacho Productions or Tito Perez. If you are uncertain about any step of the process or feel unsure about your skill level, seek a more authoritative source.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you all for watching the video! I really hope you enjoyed it! If you found the video useful/helpful/entertaining, give it a LIKE:) Also, consider SUBSCRIBING to the channel to stay up to date with all my future content by clicking the following link: bit.ly/3bw08kk Cheers!

[@mariasiqueiros7063]

Hey Macho Nacho Productions you spelled Micro wrong

[@clopheritearchive]

@@mariasiqueiros7063 just think about it it is not as small as the micro but is smaller than the advanced so the name firs perfectly

[@wbs3963]

@Macho Nacho Productions, does the touch screen still work/ still have touch screen functionality?

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Yes, it does. Just need to make sure you re-insert the digitizer ribbon cable back. If you want the glass screen lens then you will lose touch functionality. Hope this helps! Cheers!

[@ratmaster2000]

@@MachoNachoProductions so, if you don't need/care about touch functionality (the GBA didn't have that, correct), you can just drop the digitizer screen? I understand the directional pad will still work to set time and such,right? My question is 1) do you then need a glass screen like you installed or can you just use the digitizer screen with it not plugged in? 2) Will the system run WITHOUT a digitizer plugged in? I ask this specifically because I have two DS lite candidates for this mod. One has a bad P3 connector (the top screen one) which I cannot source a replacement anywhere and the other has a bad P6 connector (the digitizer) and power switch (I have a replacement though). I can source a P6 connector but they are pricey. If I can get away with not needing it, that would be great.

[@amberward6350]

I was just gonna break off the top screen but this is 100 times better

[@Tbae2401]

Amber Ward I did that as a kid when the hinge was broken. It stopped working, so I must’ve snapped something. Good thing you didn’t tho. Haha

[@DjStiv3]

Or 100 times dumber. The cost is fucking retarded. What moron spends the money and does this?

[@Tbae2401]

@@DjStiv3 i think it's something you do when it's already broken

[@DjStiv3]

@Lillie Exists i mean the video is stupid and spending so much to do it. Breaking off is dumb too but more so i meant video bcz of the cost. You may as well disassemble and do it properly make it look good

[@ratmaster2000]

Plus, you dont have to do everything (like he mentioned). My only cost is going to be the resistor, and probably a clear acrylic rod for the top. Also there comes a point where repair is either cost prohibitive or difficult. I have 2 macro candidates right now, one with a bad digitizer connector and one wit a broken upper screen connector that is impossible to source.

[@SumCanadianDude]

Hello Macho Nacho! I just used this mod tutorial on my very first mod. I have to say, it is very easy to do. My father and I did it together and we had a blast, great way to spend a day. I will be using your other videos as tutorials for some more mods, looking forward to turning this into a fun hobby. Keep up the great work!

[@stevematthews8028]

Just came across this channel as I love watching stuff like this, how in the world do you not have more views and subs? I just love how sleek and clean everything came together in the end, it almost looked factory new.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you Steve🙏! That means a lot dude. So glad you are enjoying the channel! Cheers buddy!

[@dccelly1615]

Killin it with the content Tito! This is a great mod that just about anyone can do. And what a better time to, while we are all stuck inside.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

100% DC Celly! Definitely a fun mod to do with outstanding results! Thanks man, working hard to get these videos out every Thursday! Cheers!

[@petereaves8441]

ive been watching so many of these modding videos having never touched a screwdriver in my life and now I think I wanna try this it looks so fun!!!

[@MachoNachoProductions]

You definitely should, it’s a lot of fun! But be careful, it’s very addicting, haha! Cheers!

[@CDcodes]

Just built mine today following this guide! Combined with an EZ Flash omega and an R4 card, this is by far the best way to play GBA/GBC in my opinion!

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Awesome! I totally agree, I love using my Macro! Would love to see a photo, post on Instagram if you can and tag me! Cheers Christian!

[@CDcodes]

@@MachoNachoProductions I was thinking about making a review of the Boxy Pixel Shell and posting it on my channel. Would you mind if I directed people to your tutorial if they're interested in making their own?

[@onedeadsaint]

just ordered these parts from boxeypixel: macro shell $54 glass screen $9.90 330 ohm resistors $2 and from ifixit: switch speaker $9.99 total including tax and shipping $87.66 figured I'd add this in case anyone wanted an updated cost.

[@Spazza42]

It's hardly a cheap mod though. Almost $90 in parts alone? FunnyPlaying's DSi screen kit for the AGB GBA currently costs $30 and a GBA can play every GB game too...

[@bojunchoi6354]

why would you do this mod even if ur top screen or the shell was broken a new shell or top screen replacement is like a 20 dollars and u still have a dsl with 2 screens that can run ds games without missing a top screen

[@onedeadsaint]

@@bojunchoi6354 it was something fun too do as my first project. also I have a bunch of ds's

[@Sun-ut9gr]

@@onedeadsaint It's also the most pocket-able non-micro game boy at around 13mm thick. I can carry this and my wallet in the same pocket :D

[@plumb3311]

I would do this mod if boxypixel included the faceplate + back shell to complete the look.

[@bountyhuntersouth]

This really looks like a fun mod to do. Maybe i need to pick up one of these BoxyPixel Shells. Used DS Lites come rather cheap in my country. Once again, i can't say this often enough, very pleased with your content. Informative, entertaining, calm and relaxed, just overall fun to watch. And i really enjoy the visual part too. Love the color scheme and overall look of your videos. I am really looking forward to your upcoming content. Thanks for the effort you put into your production, it definitely shows! Greetings from Germany!

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you Patrick! I’m very happy you are enjoying the videos. Also, thank you for all the kind words, it really does means a lot to me! I highly recommend the Game Boy Macro mod and I think you’ll be very happy with it. If you do plan on doing the mod and have any questions, please feel free to ask me! Best of luck! Cheers!

[@bucky5970]

Thanks for that tip at the end! I was super frustrated that I couldn't get the system to turn on and yeah the ribbon just wasn't pushed in far enough. I was worried about putting too much pressure on it since those things are so sensitive, but I got it all the way in and now it's perfect!

[@OurLordNubert]

My god, that was mindblowingly good. This deserves 100x more views

[@spectralus_8213]

This is the best guide i've ever seen,nice job man your video is so so so so clean!

[@MachoNachoProductions]

thank you @Spectralus _ ! So glad you enjoyed the tutorial! Cheers!

[@TravisNuttall]

Great walkthrough! I’ve got a DS Lite with a cracked hinge, very tempted to turn it into a gameboy macro

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thanks Travis! It’s definitely a great way to breathe new life into the DS! I’d say go for it dude!

[@TravisNuttall]

Macho Nacho Productions I ordered a red face plate and finished modding my DS last night! Could not be happier with the result, thanks again for your walkthrough 👍

[@TravisNuttall]

Here's the before: drive.google.com/file/d/1r_j1bANQzpen9z3bBVObbGL0dhjYFU6N/view?usp=sharing and after: drive.google.com/file/d/1L1NxpvFGZhS3rOIC-KrpSvoNxlI5FzXp/view?usp=sharing drive.google.com/file/d/1nlCSS2FI4JLuyRfSATTJP-U7OPcJS4qJ/view?usp=sharing

[@MachoNachoProductions]

That’s awesome Travis! So glad you found the video helpful!! Cheers!

[@WesleyF1993]

Travis Nuttall doooo itttt

[@SeaSerpentLevi]

holy crap what a BEAUTIFUL piece of hardware! I really admire people that have the guts to mod a console. Even when i had a DS and it was not working anymore i was like "i cant touch it, its sacrilegious" xD but then i didnt knew at the time that i could create something so amazing as a gameboy macro. Epic video and amazingly produced, you put so much care in the video production that even if i doubt ill ever build this, it is still a pleasure to watch.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you Levi🙏, that means a lot to me! So glad you enjoyed the video! Cheers buddy!

[@jojoberry157]

Great video, always so insightful keep it up brutha

[@putridscene]

Just finished this project up. Even with using this video as a guide, I ran into the exact same issue with the screen. Popped it back open, worked the ribbon cable in some more, and now it runs like a dream!

[@Obirux]

Great video / explanation of the Macro build 👍

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you Obirux! Much appreciated! Cheers

[@samijudj]

This is awesome! If my ds lite hinge ever breaks then I’ll be sure to do this mod!

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you @samjam! It’s definitely a great way to bring new life to a broken DS Lite! If you ever have any questions about the mod, let me know! Cheers!

[@phantombtyestudios8285]

Another epic vid my dude!!. Loved the editing & lighting.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you bro 🙏!

[@phantombtyestudios8285]

@@MachoNachoProductions Your welcome bud!

[@PhoenixPLPhoenix]

One of KZbin's most EPIC intros ever!

[@omarjada7439]

AS ALWAYS YOURE THE REASON MY SKILLS HAVE INCREASED! THANK YOU!!! WOULDNT BE MODDING WITHOUT YOU BOSS

[@AceUndergeekBunny]

I discovered your channel today and it's Amazing. The visual is molto bene, you do High Quality vidéo than many huge YTbers don't do, it's awesome. I've got a question about the GBA Macro, did you going to make a video about the DS Tank (or OG DS) mod transform it into a GBA ? I think that can be a good idea. Hype for the next content 🤘

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you @Ace Bunny!! I am so happy you are enjoying the channel! I am definitely planning to make a video for the Game Boy Macro mod using the OG DS! It should be a fun mod! Cheers!

[@bradleystone4526]

Made one myself and really love it! Boxy pixel has updated the design to no longer need the 3D printed screen holders. Considering building a second so I can swap in and out while one is charging.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Nice! I did hear he updated the design. May be time to make another too! Cheers Bradley!

[@bradleystone4526]

@@MachoNachoProductions Thanks! Your video was instrumental in helping me make mine. Best of luck with the channel I’m always interested in seeing what your next project is. Do you think you’ll do a GBA SP Unhinged video?

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thats great! Glad it was helpful! I absolutely will a unhinged gbasp video once mine come in! Stay tuned! Cheers!

[@TheArchitect097]

The production values in these videos are outta this world.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you Derek! Really appreciate it bud! Cheers!

[@sergiolopes3417]

Awesome content. Congratulations for your fine work.

[@buffalotroll2358]

Why don’t you have more subs this vid is 🔥 good stuff!

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thanks Buffalo Troll!

[@xmetal280]

Love your vids! One small production suggestion: try increasing your lighting levels a bit during your build shots. It can be a little dark and harder to see the details of what you are doing at times. An extra little led light panel or two to fill in some general area light might help that stuff pop and make it clearer as you work, and you already have some of the best and easiest to follow diy shots. Thanks for your efforts, I know that putting videos like this together is a ton of work.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Great suggestion Paul! I'll look at getting some additional lighting! Always down to improve! Cheers!

[@ghostware6057]

@@MachoNachoProductions I would say the same for the talking shots, even. I'd love to be able to see ya a bit better when you're talking in the intros. Love the videos man!! Keep it up 🔥💕

[@amano_akane]

Boooiiiii 1 - The Video Quality is just G R E A T Aaaaand 2 - You tested the modded NDS with Final Fantasy Tactics, my boiiiii

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thanks @Anselme Sanou! Super happy you enjoyed the video! Also totally agree, Tactics, fantastic game!! Cheers!

[@Not-Great-at-Gaming]

Fun fact: The lens covering an unused part of the screen is actually similar to what Nintendo did on the original 2DS.

[@mr.z6252]

This Tutorial Video.... Is Underrated, love how all the Steps is recorded in such a High Quality, so you can actually see what happen (Others that i've seen, not only they didn't have high quality, they didn't even bother to get close up shots on some of the important steps) specially with those ribbon cable The only downside its 30 minutes video, but for me its normal, cause it's a tutorial video

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you @Mr. Z! So happy you enjoyed the video! And thank you for the kind words! I agree it was pretty long, I just really wanted to make it as detailed and informative as possible! Cheers!

[@mr.z6252]

@@MachoNachoProductions Excuse me, i have a DS problem, and you might be able solve it. So it started when i tested a new DS Top screen (speaker not soldered), it works fine at first, the image is showing, the color is fine, everything is good. Then i pick up my phone to see what time is it, suddenly the image was shaking, and the color was distorted, i didn't know why so i turned it off and plug it back in to make sure, but its still the same i've tried To plug it back in a different motherboard, but the result is the same, i don't know what to do

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Hmm that is interesting. I’ve never seen an issue like that unfortunately. My only guess is that it’s a defective top screen. Sorry I can be if further help. Cheers and best of luck dude!

[@mr.z6252]

@@MachoNachoProductions Ohhh okay, thanks for the time to Answer my questions, i really appreciate it 😁😁 And Im sucribing for future DS Lite related Content 👍

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you for subscribing! There will be DS content on the way! Cheers!

[@scarletremilia3310]

A must-subscribe KZbinr for me since you've posted this.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you so much for the sub! I’m happy you enjoyed this video! Cheers Scarlet Remilia!!

[@scarletremilia3310]

One question, how did you mod it and the GBA cartridge won't left a part of it out of the shell?

[@MachoNachoProductions]

I used a special flash cart called the EZ Flash Omega which has a unique shell the sits flush with the DS Lite. I have a link to it in the video description. Cheers!

[@scarletremilia3310]

@@MachoNachoProductions Can't be more helpful. Thanks a lot!

[@MachoNachoProductions]

You’re welcome dude!

[@chriswall9334]

Great video! Really useful info! :)

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thanks Chris! Glad you enjoyed the video and found it helpful!

[@chriswall9334]

@@MachoNachoProductions My apologies! Got the wrong end of the stick thanks for clearing that up! Saw the word affiliate before the links for boxy pixel and assumed that was a declaration of affiliation, I'll edit my comment :)

[@MachoNachoProductions]

No worries dude. I can understand the confusion. Cheers!

[@adamholt5395]

I just stumbled across this video and I have to say that the production is excellent! I will definitely be checking out your other videos. For this mod, did you use an old DS game to place into slot 1 so it would not collect dust?

[@MachoNachoProductions]

I just leave it open. I’m not too worried about dust. I think some people use a 3D printed DS game to put in there too.

[@chikupachi]

this is a very helpful video Tito, however I do feel a little sorry for your like-new ds lite. THANKS for the tutorial anyway.

[@JoseLuisRodriguez-rr2zr]

pretty neat work, i like it very much

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@itsbruuda]

Loved the vid I look forward to making one

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you @Emulator City!!

[@her3000cc]

New to your channel here. Really good content you've got!

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you Hernan! That means a lot to me bud! Cheers!

[@frikifectonotengo6609]

The boxy pixel front cases are very beautiful, but they have some drawbacks. First, no room for buttons X and Y, which are useful for emulators and various homebrew. Second, no holes for stereo speakers at front, it would be posssible to do that with smaller speakers, like a cellphone ones.

[@Madblaster6]

I just started my macro build and thank you for pointing out the screen not being plugged in all the way. I felt like I soldered the resister on fine and instead of redoing it I came and watched this video.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Awesome! Glad to hear the video was helpful! Yeah, that ribbon cable was a bit tricky, it needed more force to insert than I thought. Would love to see how it turns out. If you have an Instagram account post a pic of your finished macro and tag me. Cheers and good luck with the build!

[@Madblaster6]

@@MachoNachoProductions www.reddit.com/r/Gameboy/comments/i36zvs/first_gameboy_macro/? I also didn't order a switch speaker. Slipped my mind. Had to take out the stylus slot until that comes. Also I didn't cut off the connector for the second screen. Was there a point to that?

[@MachoNachoProductions]

@@Madblaster6 Removing the connector creates more space for the speaker . Depending on where you want to put the speaker you may or may not have to remove that connector.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Very clean build!

[@NatLee]

Just completed my mod by following your video! Now I'm wondering which one I'll do next...

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Awesome Nat! So glad my video was helpful! Sky’s the limit, so many great mods out there! Happy New Years!

[@kronk1629]

"Easy to follow" the guide was very clear indeed! But uh.... I don't think most people, myself included, have a soldering iron. Was so excited to do this too....

[@Fighter_Builder]

I had a black DS Lite as a kid that I somehow managed to break the hinge of (as well as the ribbon cable to the top screen). If I can find that thing again (and if it wasn't thrown out at some point), I'm definitely tempted to give this mod a shot and give it a new lease on life.

[@MontenegroNoel]

Love this editing

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you🙏!

[@Spintechfilms]

If they ever do a full body shell for the GB.Macro that hides the DS cart slot along with custom buttons id be totally interested in a mod like this Also knocked it out of the park, im totally subbed to you now, your vid quality is amazing

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you Spintechfilms! That would be so cool! It would be great if they made a full custom aluminum shell!! Cheers!

[@Conchobhar]

Love the macOS flurry screensaver.

[@ev4n5eli0n01]

I was half way into doing this to my broken hinge DS Lite, but man I ended up building an IPS GBA and I’m wayy too sold on the IPS kool-aid now. Love the look of this mod so much but I know I’d be longing for that amazing IPS screen.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Totally agree dude! The IPS panels for the GBAs are phenomenal! Cheers!

[@robo_mesr_oner]

THE 2 SHADES OF BLUE IS NICE!🎮👍

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thanks ROBO MESR ONER, the color combo has really grown on me. It reminds me of Mega Man colors! Cheers!

[@daltonbroderson6529]

Can't wait to see this done with the DSi

[@MachoNachoProductions]

That could be a neat challenge! Since it doesn’t have the GBA slot, one could use and r4 cart to play games! Cheers Dalton and thank you for watching my videos!

[@danbaucom]

I’m actually a little ticked off cuz I threw away a perfectly good ds cuz the top screen broke and I got a new one online then realized while putting it back together, getting the wire through the hinge is rocket science. Wish I would have found this video earlier.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Sorry to hear that dude

[@Jeregh]

Great video, it really helps to give us a sense of how things works and helps us to feel more confident doing our mods :) planning to create a SNESmacro with the boxy pixel face plate by drilling the 2 additionals buttons, do you have an advice doing this ? (I sent an email to boxy to know if they could have a 4 buttons versions, but sadly no answer). Take care !

[@ghostware6057]

I really wanna make one of these. for some reason, it really bugs me that the games don't take up the full screen, but other than that, it seems super cool 😁

[@amine.habboubi]

clean job

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you @amine habboubi!!

[@robertalexander36]

Really great video! The steps are clear and easy to follow. Would you be able to hear the sounds if you didn't include the internal speaker but used headphone jack instead?

[@MachoNachoProductions]

@Robert Alexander thank you man! Glad you enjoyed the video! That is a really great question! I actually have no idea. My thinking is that the audio should still be able to pass through the headphone jack even if there is no speaker attached. Sorry I wasn’t able to give you a definitive answer but I am actually really curious now if it would work. Hopefully someone in the community could chime in an answer. If I do open the unit up at some point, I’ll def look into this. Cheers!

[@pastiesandagstring]

Nice mod. My only complaint would be the same that I have with the micro. It only supports gba games and ditched the backwards compatibility. The ds it also supported ds games so sacrificing gbc was a fair trade off. But not having either option is a bit of a bummer imo.

[@michaelwillett3878]

Great video! Really well done. I am having the same problem mentioned in previous posts about battery life being tanked to 3.5 hours after the mod. The weird thing is that the battery life doubles if I plug in a headset. I figure there must be some sort of voltage consumption of the speaker when not playing anything. In my tests I have the volume turned to 0. I am interested in hearing what you think!

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you Michael! I really appreciate it! It’s strange that is an issue. I’m going to have to look into it. Very interesting! Thank you for sharing your experience! I should run my own test and see how it compares with a stock DS. Cheers!

[@rc_matic]

Love the content! I like that you include the total cost of the mod. Do you think you can include some info on the sound quality/performance in your videos? For this mod, you're going from 2 speakers to 1 (switch) speaker and I'm wondering if there's a noticeable difference. Installing rechargeable battery packs, backlit screens, etc can potentially affect the speaker and/or headphone jack (hums, buzzing), so it'd be cool to know if you experience any of that.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Great suggestion, Ryan! Thank you! I’ll look to include that information in future videos. To answer your question about the Macro, I’d say that going to one speaker does reduce the sound a bit. Although the gameboy advance consoles only have one speaker normally, the single switch speaker does seem to be a bit softer in sound compared to regular gba systems. Cheers!

[@Srmisterio27]

Awesome tutorial!!! Question can you still use the headphones jack? Will it disable the speaker when you insert the headphones?

[@greatwhite3219]

Very nice👍

[@daniloberserk]

Nice! Now do one with a better button orientation (B button on Y position and A button on the B position). You just need some wires on the traces.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

That might be a tough one to do with the boxy pixel shell. I may look into that. Cheers!

[@daniloberserk]

@@MachoNachoProductions Maybe, but it would be glorious! The only one with a different orientation I've seem so far is this: i.redd.it/va4ncm7vc1m31.jpg but still is not ideal. imgur.com/a/SQheRqh It would be the endgame for Megaman Zero and Mario games =)

[@Vap0rvic]

hey nice video i wanna do this to a ds lite soon

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you vap0rvic! You should dude! It's one of my favorite mods! Let me know if you have any questions about the mod!

[@Vap0rvic]

@@MachoNachoProductions I wanted to put two speakers one were it initially goes and one below the button do you think I can solder both of them at the Same point

[@MachoNachoProductions]

vap0rvic absolutely! You can solder both the ground wires (black) to the VGND solder pad and the other wires (red) to the SPLO and SPLRO solder pads. The only thing I’m not sure of is the figment of the second speaker. Also you will need to drill holes which is risky. Best of luck dude!

[@Vap0rvic]

@@MachoNachoProductions ok I'm have to try it thanks 👍👍

[@1Raphael]

Look awesome..🐢🐢

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you!

[@ElricSowrd]

Awesome.

[@axelkusanagi4139]

God, I would love nothing more than a CNC case for my video-out modded ds lite. One with space for a bigger battery, the tv out mod and the wifi antenna/mic.

[@OtterlyAmazed]

Love the video and saw that you sold this on ebay haha, I built 2 so far I have the same issue with both. If I press on the screen top right the pixel warp over the flex amp. I checked my soldering and it looks fine. Is it normal? Did I do something wrong?

[@Griffnix]

I agree that the DS Lite would make for a great Gameboy Macro but I prefer the phat since the GBA cartridge is flush with the system. I though this mod could fix that but it seems you're using a ez flash omega with the smaller case. I wish they made a case for the phat as well too because it looks so clean. May make one too once I pick up a solder since the one I bought has a bad paint job and no speaker holes so it comes off muffled. I really do like using it though.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

I agree, it would be so cool if they made a shell for the Phat DS! Hopefully one day we'll get one! Best of luck! Cheers!

[@trevpack9458]

Great video! I'm currently gathering supplies to do my own Macro, but I'm going to use the whole shell for the DS Lite and just body filler, sand and paint it. Was just wondering if anyone had tried putting together a tutorial for putting bluetooth functionality into this to use wireless headphones? I've searched all over including r/gameboy , and haven't found anything...

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Nice! Good luck with your Macro build! I think there is a video somewhere on KZbin where a person adds Bluetooth to a DMG, but I haven’t seen one for the DS. That would be a really cool mod. I’m afraid it’s beyond my skill level however, haha. Cheers buddy!

[@jashin4044]

I had one of these when I was a kid and wish I still had mine to do this I’ma have to get one :(

[@PuppetMaster8707]

If I had any soldering skills I could see myself doing this but I chose the GBA because it's mod was so much easier with no soldering only grinding

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Yep, this mod is a bit involved with some of the soldering required. Thankfully there are a lot of great kits/mods out there for all the game boy consoles! Cheers dude!

[@aeipee13]

Maybe I'm just a noob but when you power on your new GB Macro after doing this mod you need to set the default screen to the lower screen. My screen worked fine but once I put a GBA cart in, the lower screen would just go black but there was sound. After trouble shooting for an hour or so I tried the settings and found how to set the default screen. I never owned any type of DS before this so this may be common knowledge but just in case you experience the same thing I did, hopefully you find this comment.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you for sharing this! I’m sure there are some out there that will find this information useful as I did not really mention it in the video. Thanks again! Cheers!

[@TB-nf6bs]

I paid someone online to make me an aluminum faceplate and also a plastic one. The aluminum one looked amazing but there was some unforseen clearance issues and busted my modded lite. Keep that in mind lol to closely inspect them. It wasn't a boxy pixel part btw

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you for the tip J L! Cheers!

[@mrroundhill]

Very helpful video! I've completed the mod but the switch speaker sounds kinda scratchy. Maybe it's blown... any tips?

[@MachoNachoProductions]

I would make sure that the speaker wire isn’t shorting on anything. I’d cover your solder joints with laptop tape to be sure

[@TheMarslMcFly]

I've never done any mods like this and I'm a total noob when it comes to electric stuff. Could I technically take the top screen out of my DS and reuse it as bottom screen? I've got a broken DS Lite here but there the bottom touchscreen is smashed so I'm not sure.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Great question, unfortunately the ribbon cable for the top screen is incompatible with the bottom, so it wont work. Replacement screens for the DS are pretty cheap however. Check eBay for some listings on bottom screen replacements for the DS. I hope this helps. Best of luck! Cheers!

[@ratmaster2000]

@@MachoNachoProductions that is not technically correct. They both use the same connector, but their orientation of the ribbon cable would make it difficult to adapt.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you for the clarification! Cheers!

[@jek__]

There's a high pitched whine from 1:03 to 6:29 that makes it pretty hard to listen to the video during that time. I've never processed audio, but I imagine its fairly straightforward for a computer to chop off the top end of the pitch range, there isn't any useful information up there anyway. Even if it doesn't work that way, being a sine wave it should be able to be fourier'ed out

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Thank you for the heads up Jake! This is one of my earlier videos and I haven’t begun to process sound yet (my ears aren’t what they used to be and I can’t hear the high pitch sound). Once people began to let me know about the audio I tried to remedy it. Can you watch one of my newer videos and see if the issue is resolved. I’ve heard from several folks that it is. Thanks again! Cheers!

[@willrussell01]

Hey I got the PAM8302A Audio Amplifier listed on the kit parts rather than the speaker. Is there an instruction page of how to use it? If so, where can I find it? Thanks.

[@willrussell01]

Instead of the speaker included with the kit you mentioned, I instead got this 2.5W ClassD Amplifier. Is there another tutorial with that?

[@satanisgoddotorg9892]

I need to do this.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

You should totally do it! A great way to experience the GBA! Cheers!

[@RWL2012]

Only one speaker...? Does that mean it plays only one channel of stereo, or has something been done to convert the signal to mono...?

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Great question. I don’t know for sure but since GBA games are mono (all GBA consoles have only one speaker) I think the DS splits the mono signal onto 2 speakers. This mod only pulls one channel. There isn’t any conversion to mono being done as far as I know. I hope this helps, this is really just my guess. Cheers!

[@SpinDlsc]

Didn't want to destroy my DS Lite, so I bought one off of eBay for

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Couldn’t have said it better myself! It’s certainly a great mod. You did the right thing and got an already broken DS. Cheers dude!

[@andrewlepage9372]

What flash cart were you using in the bottom macro at 22:30 to make it flush with the bottom of the DS?

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Hey Andrew! I use the EZ-Flash Omega. It's a really great flash cart. It has a shell that makes it flush with the DS Lite as well as a shell for regular GBA consoles. If you watch my original Game Boy Macro Video (kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4nJgK2jgd2Cmq8), I do a review of flash cart within the video. Hope it's helpful. Great question! Cheers!

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Also, love the Bob Ross avatar!

[@andrewlepage9372]

Macho Nacho Productions thanks for the reply! I missed the first video, I’ll have to check it out.

[@jayrosgameboymodz5438]

The hot glue lightpipe is genius, just make sure you use hi-temp glue, because it's much easier to fix if you screw it up.

[@betacrest10]

I'm still waiting for somebody to do a mod on the NDS lite that eliminates the clamp design while still keeping the dual screen. The concept mod i'm after is like that of the first model 2DS.

[@alpacino5783]

Bonjour , très bonne vidéo , je voulais juste savoir si il était possible de mettre une autre coque arrière que celle de la ds lite merci d'avance pour vos réponses 👍

[@VolticWind]

I wonder how the the battery life is with only half the screens and speakers that the normal DS normally uses. Does it last twice a long per charge now?

[@AHCOSTYA]

Hey Tito! Quick question on this one. What is your opinion of the DS Lite screen for this mod? I'd be curious to know your thoughts as I'm not sure it would meet my expectations being used to using an IPS GBC lately. It would be a bummer to go through the trouble of making this mod and buying the parts and end up being bummed about the screen. Also, do you know if Boxy Pixel has modified their glass screen lens to actually fit the opening of their shell? It looks to be smaller in your video which seems to be a bit frustrating.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Hey Michael! Great question! In my opinion it is hard to compare this screen to the IPS. The IPS is brighter crisper and larger. The DS Lite however is still a great screen in that it has more of a retro look (you can see the pixels). In my opinion I think it’s a great companion to an IPS modded GBA. Also the form factor is great. I really like how it feels in the hands. It’s quite thin and compact. As far as the glass screen is concerned, it is a little smaller than the opening for the lcd. I’m am unsure if it has been updated to fit better. I hope that helps buddy! Best of luck! Cheers!

[@AHCOSTYA]

@@MachoNachoProductions Super helpful! The smaller lens would bug me, but I'm thinking it may not be as bad as I think. BoxyPixel said he would be able to adjust his shell when his stock runs out, but who knows when that'll be. Thanks for taking the time to respond, man!

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Absolutely! Cheers!

[@joshl.554]

Would you mind testing the battery life on your Macros if you haven't already? I've got one I built awhile back that is identical to yours (Boxy Pixel faceplate, Switch style speaker, 330 ohm resistor) and it has this really odd issue. The problem is that the once it was built the battery life dropped from 9 hours to 3 hours on the same original OEM battery. After much troubleshooting I pinpointed it down to the speaker. When a speaker is soldered on in any configuration (left pad, right pad, bridged left and right pad) that is when it loses battery life. Remove the speaker and it magically gets 9 hours of battery life again. Plug a set of headphones in while the speaker is soldered on and it gets the normal 9 hours battery life. I even bought a 2nd and a 3rd donor DS Lite and they also exhibit the same thing. I even tried using the stock DS Lite speakers to rule out the aftermarket Switch speakers I bought and they also had reduced battery life. I tried a mono speaker and stereo speakers and again the same results. I used three different OEM batteries as well and each one had the same results. After running out of ideas of what could cause it I pretty much shelved it and haven't touched it since. I can't really find anyone anywhere who has reported the same issue online either which just makes it even more confusing. My runtime test just consisted of letting an official GBA cart (Pokemon Emerald) run it's intro video and start menu on a loop until it shutoff.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Wow that’s some very thorough testing Josh. I actually haven’t done any battery tests and since many people are very interested in that information I may do a video on the topic. To answer your question I haven’t done any testing on the macro battery specifically so I can’t say that I notice an issue with battery life. This is a very interesting topic and thank you for brining it to my attention. Sorry I couldn’t be any further help. Cheers buddy!

[@joshl.554]

It was so thorough because it was driving me crazy trying to figure it out lol. I'd be very interested in a battery life video. I don't believe anyone has made a video on it before in regards to Macros. And it would either confirm my results and maybe there is something going on with other people's Macros that hasn't been noticed yet or if yours are normal then I'll have to do more troubleshooting. But I'm not sure what else I could try other than a different resistor than the two I got from Boxy Pixel but I doubt that would change anything.

[@ratmaster2000]

@@joshl.554 How are the speakers installed? do you have some padding between them and the motherboard? I wonder if it could be some kind of shorting issue?

[@joshl.554]

In the location that Boxypixel intended. On the top left if you were looking at the front of the Macro. It's also where the ribbon connector for the top screen is removed. Once it was removed I used desoldering braid to get rid of any remnants of solder that could cause shorts. Then I covered it with kapton tape to go between the speaker. It's perfectly functional as well. It plays games and doesn't sound distorted or have crashing/freezing issues. It just has the weird lower battery life.

[@babyface6151]

Same trouble mate.

[@RogueRen]

Is there a way to do this with just the DS Lite parts and not getting a separate face plate and speaker? (I assume the resistor will always be needed). I can't justify spending $60 on just one piece of this when the DS I'm using was only $15

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Yes, it'll take a little more work however. Depending on how nice you want the final package to look you will need to use body filler and do quite a bit of sanding as well as paint prep and painting. It can be a very laborious task but you can achieve good results, you may also end up spending a little bit on those supplies. If you dont care too much how it looks you can simply remove the top half. The beauty of the faceplate is that you get good results with minimal effort. I hope this helps. Best of luck! Cheers!

[@Tiut]

that's very nice! it seems to be very good quality. By doing this mod do you lose the ability to play nds games, or there is another way to play them? thank you!

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Great question! Yes, you can still play NDS games, the only problem is that the top screen is missing so it may make playing some game difficult. There are a few games that only require the bottom screen, I think Resident Evil Deadly Silence may be one. I hope this helps! Cheers!

[@Tiut]

@@MachoNachoProductions thanks for the answer! I was thinking something like a "nds emulator inside the nds", with the ability to switch between the "top" and "down" screen, according the situation. I know it looks strange, but I think it would be cool! Ahah

[@MachoNachoProductions]

That would be very cool!

[@danskinner8533]

to do any of your mods or builds what are the temps of the soldering iron? or does it depend on the solder what temp the iron needs to be?

[@MachoNachoProductions]

I usually keep it at around 340C. But it really depends on the job at hand. Cheers buddy!

[@UKfan879]

Don't know what I did wrong, but my screen just keep flashing white when I tried to turn it on. I checked ribbon cable, redid all of my soldering, and reconnected the wifi module... nothing. Super bummed that my first soldering project was a total bust. Feel like I wasted my money.

[@Prince_Issei]

Hey is there a different spot to put the resistor? The led spots don't work for me for some reasons

[@MarouaneTF]

The gameboy macro. (ds lite) is the sleekest The gameboy macro (og fat ds) is the most comfortable

[@K_8T]

..... Im still toooooo scared to do this. but dang it looks amazing

[@MachoNachoProductions]

I love the form factor!

[@teshx9x9x40]

Just bought a DSI XL and gonna mod it and see If it's a better way of playing gba and snes. It looked like a good deal for 65$ plus the charger.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Nice! Let me know how it goes! Cheers!

[@Thunderbird1337]

Does the DS Lite play Gameboy/ Color/ Advance games in 1:1 pixel ratio? If not, I assume that there is heavy blur due to interpolation which would make this mod very questionable. I mean... what's the purpose of using a modded DS lite like this... having Gameboy/ Color/ Advance games in one device, right? But if that comes to the price of having only moderate image quality, I would rather prefer an emulation solution (for example on a PS Vita the image is brilliant and perfectly sharp due to it's much higher screen resolution -> very good interpolation).

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Great question! Both GBA and GB/GBC are both scaled correctly. I dont notice any bluring due to interpolation since the DS was designed to support the GBA natively. As a note, the only way to play GB/GBC games on the DS is with a flash cart since they don't fit into the GBA slot on the DS lite. I hope this answers your question. Cheers!

[@Thunderbird1337]

@@MachoNachoProductions Ah ok, thanks for the info. Then it shows black borders? Because the Gameboy has 160x144 pixels, the Advance 240x160 and the DS Lite 256x192 pixels.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

@@Thunderbird1337 That is correct. In the video I use a screen lens that covers the boarders. Cheers!

[@willrussell01]

Are you using a temperature controlled soldering iron? If so, what's the temperature that should be set soldering on this?

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Most of my work I do around 340c. For delicate items I drop down to 315c. Depends on the solder too. What works for me may not work for you. Cheers!

[@jakethesnake4040]

I’m curious, without the top half nothing really connects to that module besides the motherboard itself right? It’s the WiFi module I believe. Is there any point to keeping it? Will it still function or is it just that the DS motherboard won’t really know what to do without it?

[@MachoNachoProductions]

That’s a great question Jacob. Not 100% sure but I think the DS won’t turn on without it. Cheers!

[@Lenmaer]

Is it possible to have stereo speakers with the mod? Btw, the glass screen doesn't seem to be a perfect fit. We can clearly see the metal case from the LCD screen all around it. That's not looking good.

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Unfortunately, This mod only allows for 1 speaker. You can create more space in the rear of the console by removing the stylus holder and put another speaker there, but it wont be a true stereo setup. Hope this helps. Cheers!

[@Lenmaer]

I see, thanks.

[@josephlefebvre9213]

Great mod. Do you lose the charging indicator led in the process of this mod?

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Nope it still works! All leds shine through the single hole perfectly. Cheers Joseph!

[@josephlefebvre9213]

@@MachoNachoProductions awesome ! Thanks for the reply, I have parts on order to build mine

[@MachoNachoProductions]

You’re welcome! Nice! You’ll really enjoy it!

[@tylertorrey3287]

I want to know if there’s a mod that allows you to switch between screens with the one screen I looked it up all I got is that you need to mess with the firmware any help please

[@xmetal280]

I probably should use google 😉 but is there an IPS screen mod for this system which could be done at the same time as the main build? Looks like an almost perfect little Nintendo handheld if so...

[@MachoNachoProductions]

Hey Paul! I don't think a kit exists for that at the moment, but that would be really awesome! If one came out, I'd be first in line, haha! Cheers!