WARNING with Reasons NOT to buy a NEW Stern Pinball Machine - Pinball Expert - Brisbane Australia

This warning is a follow up review about buying New Stern Pinball Machine including Prices, Quality, Cost and Reliability of Sterns Spike 2 Pinball Control System. Stern Pinball in USA and Australia Stern Pinball Machines.
Links to my other shows & the Australian ACCC Consumer law guarantees.
• Should you buy a NEW S... (Should you buy a new Stern Pinball 2017)
/ pinballexpert (Other Pinball expert shows)
www.accc.gov.au/consumers/consumer-rights-guarantees/warranties (ACCC)

[@chibang492]

I wish William's and Bally still made pinball machines. They were built to last. I have a decent little collection of William's and Ballys from the 80s and 90s. Still going strong.

[@1959blantz]

I completely agree with your comment. The most reliable I have ever owned is a Williams "High Speed". I had purchased it close to 10 years after it was released in 1986. It was in the field from time it was new until I had gotten it so it likely got a lot of abuse. I've read a lot of articles claiming that the system 11 boards had many issues, but in my almost 25 years of ownership I've had almost zero problems with the exception on normal maintenance. I seriously doubt any newer Stern Pinball Machines will last 35 years. Williams and Bally made the best quality Pins of any other company.

[@chibang492]

@@1959blantz 100% agreed. Also, the fun factor lasts. The older pins have more addictive game play that keeps u coming back for more. A lot of the Newer pins are okay when it comes to fun factor, but just dont have the same feel to where you want to keep playing over and over. I'll take a 1980s or 90s pin over the newer pins anyday.

[@The_Black_Knight]

I still have B/W solid state games purchased new in box, correctly functioning with basic routine maintainance over 30 years later! I have EMs that over 60 years that are still running with tech experience. Testament to construction. Not everything was "gud" but they were commercial grade equipment, instead of tinker toys.

[@cigarsandpins4781]

I hate to break it to you but Pinball is a copycat business. If Williams was still around today they would be building games exactly the same way Stern does. Jersey Jack and American pinball have similar systems with node boards and LED boards. How do I know this? I have games in my collection from all manufacturers. I can make the comparisons right in my own basement. I had issues with Williams games right out of the box in the late 90s. They’re not all they’re cracked up to be trust me.

[@barrylenhart7240]

@@1959blantz I have a Williams Comet and High Speed. Both sat for a few years before I got them. Had the Boards and power supplies rehabbed and with a little maintenance and conversion to led bulbs both games work 100 percent and very reliable. And my Gottlieb Buck Rodgers cost me 2 dollars to solder in a new bulb socket instead of buying a 100 dollar node board to fix a light out. Or a new MPU for my Hurricane is 180 dollars for a Williams replacement from Pball Basement not a grand like a new Stern.

[@clydew.7673]

Jeez, Stern's policies and behavior are totally unacceptable. Thank you Mark for putting a spotlight on these issues. You are appreciated!

[@PinballExpert]

I agree. It's important to highlight issues & provide factual information so people can make informed decisions.

[@thomgizziz]

Im sorry but your reasoning is totally unacceptable. Comparing pinball machines to mass market devices where there are sometimes millions sold is disingenuous at best. And even with the economies of scale working for these other devices they even have to draw the line on their guarantees. Stop being so slow, pull your head out mate.

[@AceofSpades-zi6zx]

​@thomgizziz I think the point stands, sterns machines don't get high warranties, and many cheaper appliances get higher warranties. The pinball machines are far more expensive, so you would expect that they last longer.

[@EastCoastReefer]

Thank you for the comprehensive insight, Sir. I am in the process of filling the basement of my new home with pinball machines. I will steer clear of Stern and take my $100,000 budget elsewhere.

[@DJdarko913]

Great video Mark,always nice to hear from you , a true and honest expert

[@PinballExpert]

Thank you very much.

[@andysodyssey8174]

Thank you for all your years of experience in pinball ! More thanks for being willing to share this information with us and hold these company’s accountable for their faults. Looking forward to the next video.

[@PinballExpert]

Just giving back to the Pinball industry I've always loved. I am a player at heart.

[@Shendue]

That's why I love living in Europe. Mandatory 2 years warranty on all electronic products. Apple tried to circumvent it and apply only 1 year, and the government of my country told them to go to hell.

[@mariobeans]

apple is straight shit for waging war on 3rd party repair and right to repair groups. I will NEVER buy an apple product. They design their latest products to be near impossible to repair, but we will still find a way.

[@MrCrrispy]

You like the +25% tax on new pinball machines now in EU, too?

[@Robertkopp84]

@@MrCrrispy That's the downside of having one of the strongest currencys and import tax on the item you buy That's not specific to pinball. Do not forget, that shipping from the us is and was always just insanely expensive.

[@aitorbleda8267]

I do.. but do be aware that it is not as easy as two year warranty. After the first six months you need to prove that the system failed because of a manufacturing or design issue should the company responsible for the warranty require so. Plus you have to go first to the seller, not the manufacturer, unless the manufacturer agrees, etc.

[@TomSchmitzLP]

With all due respect, why should the government get to make that decision for the entire population of your country? The government is denying people who accept a one year warranty their right to buy that product.

[@MountainManGamingPSVR]

I just acquired my FIRST pinball machine (The Adams Family). It is brilliant, and a blast to play. This is definitely the beginning of a new gaming adventure for me. Next on the list, The Twilight Zone. Thanks for sharing your expertise!

[@Edmden0582]

Thank you for your honest review on the Spike and Spike II systems Mark, this kind of technical information is critical to making an informed decision. I had been considering a Stern JP, but after watching this, I think I will hold off for now. I just don't want the stress of a minimal warranty / support period, lack of product diagnostic information for repair or the excessive cost of any repairs due to the system architecture of the product. Thanks once again

[@PinballExpert]

You're very welcome, that's a concise summary of some important issues. Thanks for the feedback.

[@jessepacheco6020]

Just got our Stern JP delivered yesterday. They didn't secure the cash box and it bashed around the insides of the cabinet during shipping. Stern is refusing to exchange the table. Gary Sterns legacy will not be of a man that loved pinball, but that of a greedy old man that sold out his loyal customers for the almighty dollar.

[@kirby695]

Stern Charges Higher prices, For poor quality... All these forums and pinball websites are in bed with Stern! Bravo on saying the truth!

[@raymondhordies4807]

Thank you very much for your warning. You are helping customers and its very very important when you see the prices of the new pinballs!

[@rudivanklotenzak467]

Your previous video and admittedly nostalgia goggles helped my decision to go for an old little busted Data East Tommy machine instead. So technically old school Stern. Installed Pinsound board and a new display for kinda the same price of an replacement nodeboard for died LEDs in a new model. Although I will need an technician for fixing some issues all parts needed are openly available without crashing the bank. So many thanks for your helpful videos and advice. 👍

[@H11RC]

I'm absolutely with you! I bought a brand new Stern Star Wars and i'm so disapointed. One opto board was dead on arrival, which can happen, the shop needed over 1 month to get a new one. The worst thing is the playfield, which had micro scratches allover after the first 20 games! My local pin shop doesn't get an answer from the stern distributor here in switzerland since we asked for a solution from stern for my playfield. No more Stern...

[@PinballExpert]

I've heard many complaints similar to yours, it is a great shame.

[@thomgizziz]

micro scratches? On plexi? Who would have ever expected that? You do understand that should be the norm not an exception. Do you also buy a phone, use it and then complain that it looks like it has been used? People are being slightly unreasonable.

[@yarygork2334]

I just donated $20 u.s. to the Pacific Pinball Museum in Alameda Ca. in the Bay Area U.S. I MISS playing their wonderful collection of over 90 working ones in incredible shape! Thev'e been Covid closed for many months and I HATE to lose them forever. I drive 60 miles to go there. SUPER nice employees too! Many amazing posters artwork in many different rooms with juke boxes and all sorts of treats. Viva la Pinball Museum. Thanks for this heads up on this company. I am thinking of buying a used machine but live upstairs and have to move in a year or so.

[@PinballExpert]

Nice.

[@1teamski]

Well that sucks. Nothing like buying a $7k timebomb.

[@tristanwegner]

Thanks for the insightful warning against Stern pinball machines after 2014 with the Spike 1 or 2 system. Harder and much more expensive repairs plus low quality power supplies with noise fans are anti consumer.

[@fatscastlesfolliesandunusu4187]

Great video 👍 even before this, I wouldn’t buy a new Stern and the Guarantee is a joke and shows no confidence in their own machines, keep up the great video’s 👍

[@blindseerurza]

I have several Spike 2 games in my arcade with 7000 to 8000+ plays with no issues on the system itself. Stern's quality impresses me as an operator compared to our jersey jack games with a 1000 plays or less.

[@TheCompleteNerd]

Happy to read this because I own several newer Sterns and after watching this I was a little nervous

[@wesmarker8686]

We have a route with over 300 games. Having sound issues with Munsters Pro 3 months after purchase. Stern tech said it would be $1300 for new board, no way I could fix. No Schematics WTF? No more Spike 2's for us.

[@jameswacker3827]

Outstanding video! Been collecting and repairing pins for 20 years. Really thought I'd been missing out on the new stuff--THANK YOU!!

[@johnalexander7490]

Uhhm no you're not missing out! Have been working on pins for 40 years, and seeing stuff like the Spike & Spike 2 systems makes us want to NOT fix games unless they're like 2010 or older. This new crap is for the birds!

[@0osha]

Stern is a "Lifestyle" brand first and a Pinball manufacturer second.

[@toddament8035]

Like Harley Davidson, Lol

[@dangermartin69]

I'll take a Stern Meteor or Galaxy anytime.

[@edwardc2432]

Another great, informative video Mark. Thank you for your unbiased expertise and knowledge. I do feel these Spike games are ticking time bombs. I had a node blow immediately after a Stern software update that I had to pay for. Ridiculous!! These machines are becoming closer to pinballs sold in the Sears catalogs of the 1970s and 80s. Very sad to see. Problem is for every owner who leaves Stern there are 2 more buyers waiting to purchase. Stern loves the new buyers because they are so green and have no idea what low quality they are buying. So sad to see and not a good way to keep such a small, niche hobby alive for future generations. Thanks again Mark and keep these videos coming!

[@PinballExpert]

Yes, and many of those Spike "time bombs" only tick for a short time!

[@GuitarsAndSynths]

what brand and maker of new pinball machines are the most reliable and have the best warranty customer support?@@PinballExpert

[@lmkan]

Thank you so much Mark. My latest Stern is a SAM system and I'll leave it at that after seeing your informative no nonsense video. Keep up the good work!

[@PinballExpert]

Thank you very much, I appreciate the compliment.

[@PatJones82]

You've confirmed all my suspicion's. Thanks for saving me from purchasing a future nightmare.

[@PinballExpert]

I'm glad you found the information useful.

[@stephenwarhurst6615]

60 day warranty sounds like a Stern wants to make more money in the long run selling spare parts. I wonder if the spare parts warehouse is more larger the pinball factory

[@gorillaau]

60 days... It can take two to four weeks to get something mailed to this country.

[@CasperInkyMagoo]

I took a real gamble buying a few modern sterns and they’ve been more reliable than expected. What will happen ten years from now I don’t know.

[@jarrodjob]

Audi has been doing this for years. 🤦‍♀️ Smart Business model. Bad customer experience.

[@jaysunlawndiz8269]

Wow! Our friends just bought 2 modern pins that we have been having a lot of fun playing... We are going to buy 2 machines for our place so we can go back and forth with them... Those machines were going to be a Jurassic Park Premium and a Deadpool Pro... We've already been into our dealer to discuss pricing and terms and I was just doing some final research on maintenance/durability when I came across this video... I think the lack of corrective action from Stern over the past 7 years is mind boggling... I am completely rethinking how best to spend that $20k now... Might need to pivot to the used market.

[@PinballExpert]

That's very wise, I suggest every buyer examine the facts and think very carefully about the value for money and maintenance costs before buying a new Stern pinball.

[@rickpontificates3406]

I have designed hardware and software for pinball as well as repaired many of them and I know what fails on them. I had a little tiff with Pat Lawlor in Star Tech Journal when Earthshaker came out. I questioned the vibration of the shaker motor and Pat Lawlor responded to me, “we ran the games at twice the vibration level and had no problems”. Well, sure enough, I saw things fall off of Earthshaker that I’d never seen come loose on other pins, like saucer switches. I miss those days. I wish someone would fund me to design a new pinball system.. otherwise, those golden days of pinball are over for me.

[@slob5041]

it would be awesome to see a new system by someone that genuinely cares about it.

[@rickpontificates3406]

@@slob5041 I would love to do a new pinball system, but I'm doing casino gaming at the moment. I did a pin system about 18 years ago, but I would update it. The playfield is always a pain to build, but it's a labor of love.

[@firstnationsindian8062]

Thank you sir for opening my eyes. You have just saved me a great deal of money.

[@CaryHardy]

Bravo! Well said, sir.

[@robertfrost8264]

Glad to see this guy's face here!

[@DarkstarGaming74]

I was about to switch my subscriptions....guess I’ll keep both

[@piotr0r_]

Hi. I'm an arcade operator in central France. I had this very problem w/ the broken D9 diode on my Star Wars Pro machine, and it cost me 560 € in repairs. Fried node board, fried "Smart" LED boards, fried satellite boards. Had to replace the #8 Node Board, and had to have the LED boards repaired (I'm not equipped to deal with SMD soldering), plus labour and shipping. This is unacceptable. And six months earlier, I had the infamous short to ground issue with an LED flashlamp on my Ghostbusters pro. Lucky for me, it was still under warranty. Worse : none of the "protections" mentioned by Stern worked on these issues, since they occured outside of their "safety envelope", before their "circuit protections".

[@PinballExpert]

I've heard similar issues to yours many times.

[@mariobeans]

I just bought a Rick and Morty from Spooky, while the build quality isn't as great as my TSPP, the PROC system does seem easier to repair due to the LEDs being easily interchangeable vs spike surface mounted LEDs. Spooky has also been very active in the forums and are still making improvements to their R&M as the game is being manufactured. I would love to see some professional insight on the PROC system regardless. Also, my r&m seems to be using the same or similar power supply due to the loud fan which I did purchase a quieter fan which i have yet to install due to it voiding my warranty even though SPOOKY had made a comment in the forums hinting they wouldn't give you a hard time for replacing the fan and would still honor their warrenty.

[@Pikmin012]

This video is a top result for "how to buy stern pinball machine". Which is an excellent outcome of the algorithm! Hopefully it catches more people who were looking to try and get a table.

[@JasonRftA]

I was ready to purchase a new Stern pinball but this video is making me stop and rethink that plan.

[@PinballExpert]

That's why I make these shows to help people make informed decisions.

[@PhilipGreenspun]

Thanks for the video. We bought a new Godzilla Premium machine from a local dealer on the assumption that they would have to support it for a year. Then we read the fine print on the warranty and discovered... that there is no warranty. It's a more engaging game, in my opinion, than the 1990s games, due to the videos and music and elaborate modes. But we had one flipper go weak within a few months of home use and we still can't debug it. The consumer is expected to develop all of the skills of a full-time arcade technician (the dealer didn't want to send his own people, who are always busy rebuilding classic machines for resale). (We've had one pro arcade technician to the house, but he couldn't resolve the issue either!)

[@PhilipGreenspun]

One of the strange parts of the no-warranty warranty is that it says "Installation of non-authorized accessories, lamps, LED’s, motors or other devices or modification of electro-mechanical devices may damage the system and will void your warranty." But the warranty is only 2 months on some printed circuit boards. And the 2 months is probably mostly over by the time a game gets to someone's house: "Warranty periods are effective from the initial date of shipment from seller to its authorized distributors." (i.e., if it took 2 weeks to ship to the dealer and then sat there for 5 weeks, the warranty will be over by the time the consumer plays his 10th game).

[@PinballExpert]

Your experience with a new Stern pinball is similar to many others I hear about. Stern do make some fun Pinballs but they enjoyment is gone when they soon develop faults, aren't easy to diagnose and often ridiculously expensive to buy parts and repair. My advice to everyone is just don't buy a new Stern pinball, not until things substantially improve.

[@GuitarsAndSynths]

that is why better to spend $20 a month at a local barcade than to buy and own one!@@PinballExpert

[@thesteammachine1282]

@@PinballExpert Has the quality improved these days or is it still that bad ? What other brands have more quality, Spooky ?

[@thesteammachine1282]

@@PhilipGreenspun From curiosity, but did you managed to get it fixed dude? Cheers

[@sepixsound]

very interesting, thanks for the clear walkthrough. it's a pitty, some of those new models are really beautiful, but under this conditions ...

[@manbearpig900]

I was starting to look at my first at home Pin (a few friends too) and this video made the decision not go to stern very easy. Thank you. I hope that is what you wanted. That is 2-3 future machines you've changed the sale off. Congrats!

[@PinballExpert]

What I want is to circulate my knowledge & experience so people can make informed decisions. I'm glad you found this show helpful.

[@manbearpig900]

@@PinballExpert It looks like you've saved me a lot of time, energy, sadness and money on my first home use pin :) More than helpful.

[@The_Black_Knight]

Much of this information was initially discussed by many senior technicians as early as 2015. However, it remained dismissed due to propensity of private sales. Distributors certainly did not want to admit shortfalls. Some technical SPIKE schematics have been released for Stern SPIKE games, however does not address lack of diagnostics. SPIKE I and II systems are not backwards compatible. Reliability, serviceability, and durability of SPIKE games remain suspect, and will not improve unless forced due to market sales.

[@PinballExpert]

Yes indeed , the more people who speak up the more likely positive change will occur.

[@tulo66an]

Make me think twice before buying one. Thanks for the info

[@ru2388]

Excellent video once again. I'm certainly not going to consider new Stern. A 60 DAY warranty is all you need to know.

[@PinballExpert]

Yes, that does say a great deal!

[@gorillaau]

Multi-thousand dollar toys? If you can't get two years from a machine in a home environment, you are doing something wrong. Did they fire the mechanical engineer? Someone needs to get a photo showing D9. Has it been mounted axially (vertical) on the board?

[@Redy4me01]

Hello Mark, Thanks a lot for this review about Stern, if Stern doesn't listen to this hounest and clear straight forward review i guess that stern management just like you said doesn't give a shit about there (future) custumors. i sure wont be buying a Stern pinball with spike. i realy liked the fact you were adressing straight to Stern, i guess al they want is MONEY and the love of pinball has been lost

[@dangermartin69]

I'll stick with machines built when I was a kid, since they hold nostalgic value to me and are easy to repair, although the prices are approaching the price of the new Sterns.

[@PinballExpert]

Yes many used pinballs are more expensive than a new Stern and for good reason, many people see them as better propositions to buy, supply is limited so prices go up.

[@dangermartin69]

@@PinballExpert I suppose I should clarify that I was a kid in the late 70's early 80's, so I'm talking about pins like Firepower, Black Knight, Eight Ball Deluxe. People are asking sky high prices for them right now here in Canada.

[@thomgizziz]

@@PinballExpert it is supply vs demand... your better propositions is nonsense that you are adding on.

[@sporehux8344]

I have been saving for a new pinball machine, this video was like a cold shower, no FN way I'm spending 8-10k for something with effectively zero warranty.,

[@PinballExpert]

That short warranty is a concern especially for home use rec room buyers.

[@Charlies1970TA]

Love my Stern Batman 66..... so far so good on a really fun and dynamic play machine. Fingers crossed!

[@abyssalreclass]

TL;DW: Stern is the Apple of pinball machines. Thanks for the information, I am pondering the idea of buying my first pinball machine. Videos like this are very useful to a newcomer doing research to try and make a good purchase.

[@PinballExpert]

That's a good comparison, Stern do seem to have many similarities most of which I consider to be bad for buyer and owners.

[@TheCompleteNerd]

I currently own 7 expensive modern sterns, LE, premiums along with some Williams. This video makes me nervous about the longevity of my games.

[@michaelbrakke4504]

No concrete facts. Just whining and whining and assuming because the warranty is short is must be a bad product. blah blah blah.

[@thesteammachine1282]

In europe we have a mandatory warranty of 1 year and 2 years for more expensive devices .(+the option to expand the license time if provided)

[@0utdoorscience]

Thanks for this video. I had been considering a JP2 (we currently own a Fish Tales), but I can’t justify $9k for a machine with poor component quality that I can’t fix. As per your recommendation, I’m now considering an earlier Stern machine - and am checking to ensure it doesn’t have a Spike system.

[@PinballExpert]

That's a decision numerous people have made, you'll be better off and happier.

[@rodneyschuler1590]

I'm glad that I took the time to watch your video. Keep up the info, truth teller for the consumer.

[@PinballExpert]

Thanks, I will.

[@michaeljordan6008]

The quality of the materials Stern uses are crap.

[@ThemMightyPies]

Thanks for your insight. I'm now a far more informed consumer. Please leave comments on more videos.

[@catlike4456]

You can say that about every company ever.

[@deanclayton3913]

Thanks so much for this revealing video. I was going to begin collecting pinball machines and was about to purchase 3 to enjoy and as an investment, but hearing about the quality and how nobody wants them as resales, I won't be buying any!

[@PinballExpert]

You're welcome and I suggest you start out buying some good used games. Thanks for the comment.

[@stevenv9726]

Any update on the Stern pinballs? Was considering a new Stern purchase and watched this video with some concern. Has Stern improved during the last 2 years? Thanks for the good, detailed content!

[@PinballExpert]

They're getting worse. Here's just one example, a change to lower grade screws on Flipper assemblies have been breaking off. Unfortunately, my advice is, definitely don't buy a new Stern pinball.

[@GuitarsAndSynths]

what brands do you recommend for reliable home pinball machine?@@PinballExpert

[@AceofSpades-zi6zx]

I believe Jersey Jack still does the old sam system, at least from what I remember. Look at williams and bally games, though not new, are far more practical than stern machines.​@@GuitarsAndSynths

[@blindseerurza]

The issue of not being able to swap node boards from your original video is no longer an issue in the spike 2 system

[@markcarli8259]

Thanks Mate. Was looking at a Led Zep. Not now.

[@PinballExpert]

I certainly understand why, it's a shame Sterns quality/reliability is so poor.

[@Siggy_Sour]

But node boards are easier to replace for newbs who cant fix shit, so it actually does simplify things too.

[@user-qi1uh9ew9m]

Thanks for keeping them honest! It's too bad knowing that many of these will be decommissioned due to too much repair will be required to keep them going. I've got a 55 year-old '69 Super Bally Ball Bowler that I play daily. It's crazy knowing that it's better to buy older machines to allow lower repair costs. Any thoughts on the quality of The Big Lebowski by Dutch Pinball?

[@PinballExpert]

Modern Stern pinballs made since 2015 are far less durable than previously. The quality fell off a cliff! I've only seen 2 Big Lebowski pinball, they're decent BUT being a low production, boutique pinball and manufacturer, it's a concern about ongoing parts and support...how long will this company exist?

[@sumatoborukiSaru]

You would think that making interchangable playfield node boards versus game specific ones would reduce manufacturing costs. It would also benefit operators, as they could borrow a board from a less profitable machine, keeping profitable games in service whilst waiting for replacement boards / warranty returns.

[@frankvonfrauner]

Just because it reduces their costs, it doesn't necessarily mean that they're going to pass that on to their customers. They don't have much competition, as long as they keep their prices and quality competitive with other manufacturers, they'll charge as much as the market will allow.

[@Monstahh1x]

Personally I prefer pins from the 80's and 90's from Bally, Williams, Gottlieb, Data East. The early stern pins are alright but the newer stuff I tend to shy away from, only exception is black knight 3000

[@zombie3833]

Are there issue to be concerned about? Yes. Is this fear mongering necessary? No. You arent warning people. You are scaring away potential pinball fans to the hobby. It sounds like you (like many operators) were burned by Stern at some point. Ive had good experiences with my games and Sterns customer service. While there is no official warranty, any issue ive ever had with the 6 games ive pursched since 2018 has been taken care of by Stern. Metallica playfield issues? Yes. Playfield replaced? Also Yes. Mandalorian broken ramp? Replaced. Stern customer service os good. Some people just like to complain before trying to contact the manufacturer. Stern is a good company (though they have gotten greedy with their ever increasing prices)

[@sunnywaverider]

Thank you for explaining it so clearly. Greatly appreciated.

[@PinballExpert]

You're very welcome, thanks for the comment.

[@808zhu]

Great video. Exactly what I wanted to know and also suspected. Thank you!

[@mancavemoviemadness7464]

How's the serenity? That's going straight to the pool room.

[@dougydoolittle5255]

I bought a brand new Elvira just 2 months ago after they released more machines into Australia. Have you had any issues with spike system crashing and restarting? Sometimes it happens during game play, sometimes after game just scrolling through high scores. I posted the last dropout on my KZbin just now. Its really annoying getting a crash with 590 million points on the board.

[@PinballExpert]

Restarting occurs quite often in Stern pinballs, the cause is often the power supply unit. It's pretty low quality and barely up to the task of supplying the required voltages and peak current loads. Actual examples I've seen are, a partly shorted coil or failing LED lamp that's drawing more power than usual. This will often cause the power supply to shut off and restart. Your problem may just be a defective power supply OR something that's making the delicate power supply shut down and restart. It's probably not going to be a quick or easy job finding the cause and it certainly wont be inexpensive IF you have to pay for the repair.

[@dougydoolittle5255]

@@PinballExpert ,I've had 1 of the 30 or so drop outs, between games with no playfield activity, just scrolling through high scores with flippers. Lowest possible load than machine standing in standby mode.

[@thesteammachine1282]

@@dougydoolittle5255 7 months later, but did you manage to find the problem and fix it mate ?

[@sonicflash5090]

Thank you very much i will stay away from newer sterns now!!

[@daveporter7409]

Wow Mark that’s giving Stern a gobfull lol it’s nice to know as I was looking at a newer stern but I’ll keep my Mustang (Sam) and look elsewhere thanks mate

[@PinballExpert]

Thanks Dave, I'm looking at Hot Wheels and Guns n Roses, that's not a recommendation (not yet anyway) but they are worth looking at.

[@daveporter7409]

@@PinballExpert oh ok yeah mate was thinking of a Pirates from JJ it’s a bit old but will see what happens thanks again mate

[@PinballExpert]

@@daveporter7409 Jersey Jacks Pirates of the Caribbean is a pretty popular game.

[@inkermanplatoon2210]

Jeeez thanks man, I jus cancelled my avengers after watching this! 👍🏻

[@ThemMightyPies]

You did not

[@inkermanplatoon2210]

@@ThemMightyPies did Not what?

[@strykerking]

Great vid, I was considering a Stern but I'll think twice. You should come back and make more videos!

[@alejandroalartiz9451]

I want to give you a thousand likes, but KZbin don't let me. Thanks for your honesty. Which Stern should I buy? - The Simpson's Pinball Party? - The Lord of the Rings (2003)? - Metallica Master Puppet? - Or, The Walking Dead LE? And what do you think of Monster Bash LE remake by Chicago Gaming?

[@PinballExpert]

Those are all older Stern titles, none are Spike system. Only you know what you will like best, I suggest you play games you're interested in BEFORE buying. I have not seen the Monster Bash remake yet so I can't comment on it.

[@alejandroalartiz9451]

@@PinballExpert I understand, but which one YOU would buy? Oh, and thanks for the feedback.

[@PinballExpert]

Well personally, I'd never buy an LE of any game unless the price was no higher than a regular model. As for the game I WOULD choose from you list, probably Metallica, I don't like Metallicas music but the game is ok to play. I own a Metalica Road Case edition.

[@alejandroalartiz9451]

@@PinballExpert We agree on that one. Thanks again.

[@sed6]

TSPP, hands down!

[@dadbodexp]

The end comment about the home models holds true now. Look at the new Venom pro. Its completely a different game than the premium. Jaws pro has the same tendency. I have only seen the videos of Jaws, but it lends itself to the trend

[@PinballExpert]

Stern pinballs value for money, features and quality has fallen considerably since I did this review, in fact it's much lower than I expected.

[@bjv93]

Thank you for spanking this company a little bit. They absolutely deserve it, they just aren't the same Stern I knew and loved as a kid. They deserve to have all their current management fired and replaced or to get beaten by their already far superior competition. Their modern quality is absolutely unacceptable.

[@PinballExpert]

Just outlining some important facts and issues so people can make informed decisions

[@TallBoyGareth1]

Interesting video with some great information 👏🏻 cheers

[@waltwatts3399]

I'm in the market for my first pinball machine.. through searching online, all of the used 90's machines that I find are going for ridiculous prices.. it leads me to buy new... watching this video, and the one before it, woke me up to the repair side of the newer pinball machines.. only issue is, that while this video rips on stern for gouging.. which I agree with, I have found that all of the new machines from all the manufacturers these days have a similar system in place.. and through searching for parts say for the Monster Bash Remake machine, that I am currently considering next to the Deadpool pro machine... Chicago Gaming offers 0 replacement parts for their boards anywhere online. I can't find one. while you can at least find replacement parts quite easily from stern. so... it's either 12,000 dollars for your favorite 90's game, or buy a new stern that has parts available in case they break. is anyone else finding this? I want Monster Bash.. (found a new one locally) but can't find replacement boards to save my life. at least Stern offers them.

[@johngebbie7230]

Have you had any experience with Jersey Jack’s machines? Would love to buy one of theirs but wanna make sure I’m getting quality. I’m New to pinball. Thx John

[@PinballExpert]

Jersey Jack pinballs are considerably better made, they're not perfect but a good choice IF you wish to buy a NEW pinball machine.

[@cigarsandpins4781]

Maybe I’m one of the lucky ones. I’ve owned just about every spike one or spike two game in my collection at one point and I only ever had one node failure. I had node 8 fail on my kiss pro. It was out of warranty and I called stern and they sent me a new node board free of charge. I think the system is more robust than people give it credit for. It’s not perfect by any means. A friend of mine operates a very successful location (before Covid) he refuses to buy jersey jack games anymore ironically he had more failures with their system than he did with Sterns. Wizard of Oz was a complete mess when it first came out. The connectors on the main computer in the cabinet were constantly failing.

[@PinballExpert]

Jersey Jacks first pinball Wizard of Oz had many issues but Jersey Jacks build quality & reliability has improved in every subsequent game, Sterns has declined.

[@cigarsandpins4781]

@@PinballExpert I’ll soon find out first hand. I’m waiting for my Guns N’ Roses LE to arrive. I’m told sometime in January. 9500 bucks here in the states. For that it better be good!

[@crazycorg1]

The machines you bought still holding up?

[@cigarsandpins4781]

@@crazycorg1 In all my years of collecting I’ve had one node board failure and stern replaced it. The system is rock solid. Old timers don’t like it because it’s something new

[@crazycorg1]

@@cigarsandpins4781 alright sounds good, thanks for letting me know

[@Mo_Ketchups]

Sorry for multiple posts, but this is some heavy info to take in! When I saw thousands of Jaws units ship with that chumline plastic sinking, causing a gap/ramp that scales airballs into the upper right corner, and what this guy did to fix HIS, I literally did this 🤦‍♂️ They KNEW it was a huge issue!

[@jessepacheco6020]

Hey mate! Greetings from the USA!!! Found your video and we are getting massively screwed by Stern at the moment. They didn't secure the cash box prior to shipping and it plus the light box bolts bashed around the inside of the cabinet. Stern refuses to exchange the cabinet. We paid $10,000 for a pinball table with beat up insides... I hate that by the virtue of grace that Stern survived all the others.

[@PinballExpert]

I've heard many complaints about Sterns quality in recent years. Stern was the last new Pinball manufacturer from the year 2000 for well over a decade. Based on my observations & experiences back then Stern did strive to make durable games but since around 2014 the quality began a steep decline with regular price increases. Here we are mid 2022 and in my opinion a new Stern pinball is a DEFINITE don't buy.

[@antonvlasjuk3079]

I felt the same way " that 1990's games are more fun to play until 2012, when Stern made AC/DC..... Then i started to like Stern much more!

[@johhnmorgan8329]

He has got a point in a way I hope they do learn from it

[@doctoroctos]

As an embedded engineer, it is very challenging to diagnose all faults internally and display correct messages. It basically requires replicating all failures and accurately diagnosing them internally. Sometimes issues get masked (think faulty wiring hiding a blown fuse). I get that its difficult. Feels like the right thing for stern to do is to invest properly into this development. I don’t think its the end of the road for stern, they just need some upgraded investments. Also, sounds like the level of support should be increased and the cost of replacement parts should be reduced to cost + minimal margins if stern is at fault for supplying parts with low reliability.

[@PinballExpert]

That's a well considered analysis. The big issue with Stern is, they are ONLY interested in maximizing profits and sales. They're not remotely interested in actually making better systems or better products that will benefit owners.

[@mobius273]

​@PinballExpert thats all corporations ultimately though

[@markusriegler]

Thank you, I had almost bought a Star Wars Premium on a whim, glad I saw this. Will take more time researching alternatives. Thanks.

[@interestingtimes182]

Hope you make more videos. I see was over 3 years ago

[@mauricedaoust3658]

Great insight on the product. I was considering the new Ninja Turtle Pinball, not anymore. What's your thought son Star Trek 2013 production & Tron 2011. Am I best to invest in those? Moe

[@sadboi7537]

Although Stern is starting to put out sub par quality pins these days, Star Trek and Tron are two of the best “modern” Stern’s. They are praised across the board and have high replay value. Either one is great to own, but I’d personally go with Star Trek since it’s one of Ritchie’s better modern layout, just like AC/DC. They’re both great pins either way you slice it!

[@PinballExpert]

Star Trek or Tron are fine, neither are Spike system pinballs. Buy the game you like the most. I agree, don't buy a Turtles.

[@TheCompleteNerd]

2013 Star Trek is a great pinball machine. I currently have a pro and love it so much I’m buying a premium this weekend. I own several sterns and I think the 2000-2015 are the beat value and some of my favorites. If you’re buying a pro more with an old pro machine then you do with the newer ones. The new pro machines are almost bare playfields.

[@Ryan-pr7vq]

You just pulled down their pants and spanked them good. Very thorough and detailed analysis of what is so obvious.

[@robroij4627]

Hello Mark, very clear words about Stern. I hope to see your opinion about GNR flipper. Greetings from the Netherlands Rob

[@rehoby]

I bought a new Rush Pro. After a couple hundred plays, a light popped off. Both scoops are lifting too, including the one with a mod.

[@tonymic988]

I have a stern monopoly pinball and it is great. But I am shocked that stern is treating its customers this way. I was going to buy 3 pinballs machines for my kids but I have not decided on the machine yet. I will not buy a stern pinball now that I know this. I will be looking at JJP pinball machines now. Stay safe.

[@The_Black_Knight]

Monopoly is not a SPIKE system, it is SEGA/WhiteStar similiar to Data East systems of the 1990s. Different level of reliability, serviceability, and durability.

[@tonymic988]

@@The_Black_Knight yes I know thanks.

[@hollywoodpolo9872]

Mark I just got 1.8 Billion on Zaccaria Steam Devil Riders 2019 Deluxe Pinball Table and I'm the #1 global score on that table's leaderboard!

[@DarthVader-ESB]

This is true I won't buy any spike system games from Stern, currently restoring a f14 tomcat and it's worth the effort over the stern👍🏾👍🏾

[@PinballExpert]

It's so important to make a well informed decision before buying a pinball machine, especially a new one.

[@jdraven0890]

Thanks for confirming that these are not worth the headache. I'm disappointed, but not surprised.

[@PinballExpert]

You're welcome, it's a shame.

[@AceofSpades-zi6zx]

I know of 4 pinball machines that I've played, they are whirlwind, comet, vegas and wizard, they have needed little repairs over time and they all work well, I don't own them but I do wish go own a comet and whirlwind someday, these stern machines while definitely break faster than these over 30 year old machines

[@PinballExpert]

New Stern pinballs are no longer made to be durable. They quality and reliability has been reduced to that of domestic appliance for home use. They are no longer made for commercial use as in the past.

[@steveblersch]

Wow! I was thinking of buying several machines from them! I’ll check more into this now!

[@nena_nezali]

Now I understand why my arcade disabled force feedback on their spike II's

[@ThomasGrillo]

I wonder if remounting the vibration sensitive components onto anti-vibration mounts, like what was used in phonograph turntables, (shock mounts), might protect these components from vibration related damage, in the future, and hopefully, eliminate the need to replace these overpriced components? Thanks for the video.

[@PinballExpert]

Yes some rubber dampers place between the node boards fasteners and the playfield would greatly increase the durability but Stern does not want to do that, it would reduce their sales of replacements!

[@lesmartin1459]

Wonderful thought

[@rustyblades2566]

Went to a local amusement arcade in my area last night. I was playing the Aerosmith Pinball when a man walked passed w/ his family and warned me how the right flipper popped out on him. I tried to pull it out and it came out so easy. The quality is so bad on these machines.

[@anonony9081]

Funny you mention that I was just at the arcade and The flipper button fell out of Ghostbusters. I don't even know how that's possible

[@rustyblades2566]

​@@anonony9081 Oh my..I will avoid playing the Ghostbsters pin, if I come across it. these companies should be embarrassed to sell these cheap machines. I have a Bally KISS and rare Hankin The Empire Strikes back...the quality on these two machines are amazing compared to today's junk.

[@toddament8035]

My new Munsters game was delivered on 9/5/19 and I haven't had any trouble with it yet but it needs new pinballs already as these are showing pitting from plenty of multi-ball play.

[@v1rtu050]

Excellent, informative video, thanks. I have subscribed.

[@lesmartin1459]

I bought a star trek vault machine. It had the magnet problem that was supposed to be solved. I have never had a pinball before. I had to open it up and start replacing parts....with very little to no support from stern.

[@rolofox7283]

I don't like Stern machines, they're too boring playfield-wise. I find myself gravitating toward Williams and Bally in any arcade. The thing I notice a lot is the flippers go bad after a year or two. Shocking how I run into more major faults in Stern machines compaired to almost little to no faults in **Unrestored** and restored machines from 1970-2000s

[@kheavridnt]

I bought a NIB Jurassic Park about a year ago and have had zero issues. My older pinball machines have gone down several times during the same timeframe. Things acting up/breaking on pinball machines is just a part of owning one. But so far my purchase and my friends 3 NIB Sterns have been trouble free. I'm sure something will go wrong but just enjoying the machine now.

[@richardabkstorm9009]

Excellent video fella!! I live in Illinois in the US, and I met a Stern exec guy last summer because he was having a garage sale...Maybe I should go over and ask him about their machines and practices... 😉👍🙏

[@PinballExpert]

Yes you should, I'm sure many people would be interested in hearing what he had to say officially or unofficially. I know there are people inside Stern who don't like the way things are.

[@alanmusicman3385]

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is a complex thing to estimate before buying - a fact that many manufacturers of all kinds of things (home printers industry I am looking at you!) fully exploit. Sadly, - as I have commented on George's video - and as Mark, you allude to here, certain ways of utilising modern technology have the effect of moving cost from production and into the TCO bucket. It doesn't have to be that way - but that seems to be what has happened here.

[@JoebDragon]

They should used the old big dmd dots for the menus at least (back from the old sega days) if they still have the old dots in the menus.