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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@1teamski]

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

[@DJdarko913]

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

[@PinballExpert]

Thank you very much.

[@kirby695]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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 👍

[@firstnationsindian8062]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@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. 👍

[@CaryHardy]

Bravo! Well said, sir.

[@robertfrost8264]

Glad to see this guy's face here!

[@Darkstar985]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@inkermanplatoon2210]

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

[@ThemMightyPies]

You did not

[@inkermanplatoon2210]

@@ThemMightyPies did Not what?

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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?

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@tulo66an]

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

[@mancavemoviemadness7464]

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

[@Mo_Ketchups]

SIXTY DAYS?!!!! 👀 If you believe in your quality THAT little, just go for a bigger lol and make it 26 hours after delivery? 🤔 There’s really no practical difference. Holy MOSES I never knew this!! 🤦‍♂️

[@sunnywaverider]

Thank you for explaining it so clearly. Greatly appreciated.

[@PinballExpert]

You're very welcome, thanks for the comment.

[@sepixsound]

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

[@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.

[@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

[@michaelbrakke4504]

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

[@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.

[@TallBoyGareth1]

Interesting video with some great information 👏🏻 cheers

[@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

[@strykerking]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@thomgizziz]

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.

[@MrDirkles]

The controller board is only monitoring switches. Indeed it's so simple that 100$ FPGA device can be used as a direct replacement on wms systems. Stern are price gouging, it's as simple as that

[@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 ?

[@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)

[@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.

[@catsaretasty]

😂Gomez and Stern watched this video with tears 😢 in their eyes

[@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.

[@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.

[@interestingtimes182]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@dudilek11]

THE PRICES OF THESE MACHINES ARE NOW FROM SPACE IN THE US IS ABOUT $ 6,000 AND IN EUROPE (POLAND) FROM $ 12,900 IS A JOKE, GREETINGS.

[@PinballExpert]

That is even higher than we pay here in Australia & we are paying almost $10,000 for a pro. Your games should be cheaper than ours, the currency exchange rate is much better between the Euro and US dollar.

[@cigarsandpins4781]

Someone said this guy has passed on. Can anyone confirm this?

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@jjhamza]

We warranty everything we sell for one year. Without question.

[@michaeljkasnter]

I OWN 10 new Sterns, HOLY MOTHER OF ALL THAT HAS EXISTED are these games FUN!!!!!!! Absolutely love these games!!! AEROSMITH PRO is wicked FAST and FUN!!! Black Knight is INCREDIBLE!!!

[@smccrode]

Why do you think they have such short warranty period? Had any issues?

[@mstngken]

I agree with most of what you are saying but you are wrong about Jersey Jack pinball they are not much if any better than Stern.

[@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.

[@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

[@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!

[@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.

[@ultimatebasses]

Good to know and be educated on Stern's current business and manufacturing policies. Initial buzz on the newly released Led Zep pin isn't very flattering. Maybe Stern will be forced to address the shortcomings Mark has indicated. Jersey Jack has always been a well regarded pin company. Their Hobbitt pin is awesome and on my bucket list. Merry Christmas everyone.

[@PinballExpert]

After speaking with people who have designed games for Stern, I was told they are restrained from making potentially spectacular new games due to Stern imposing firm restrictions on build cost budgets that must not be exceeded.

[@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

[@Mo_Ketchups]

Should I get a Monopoly pin w a mint playfield but slight cabinet fading on one side for around $5k or invest in either Avengers (for the shooting, not theme) or new HOH, both Premiums? I’d love to hear any opinions because you may save me a lotta grief. Thanks to anyone who answers. 🙏✌️

[@PinballExpert]

Monopoly is a decent game and fairly well made. Don't touch Avengers, it's a Spike 2 game. These are low quality, far less reliable and money pits to repair. Be careful about any buying recent titles, they can be troublesome lemons that owners are trying to get rid of!

[@AceofSpades-zi6zx]

I'd take the monopoly over avengers since repairing the monopoly would be far more efficient and cost saving depending on the fault.

[@Mo_Ketchups]

@@AceofSpades-zi6zx Thank you for the feedback! I’ve been getting the vapors over this decision. I’ve had others tell me the same but for slightly differing reasons. Your bothering to reply gives me hope for this community. 🤙✌️

[@Mo_Ketchups]

@@PinballExpert Your opinion matters to me. So, thank you very much. I AM gonna get the Monopoly. The money I save allows for immediate color DMD upgrade & LED kit, too. 🤙 Hot tip: Americans, buy your color DMD’s from Andrew at Retrocity in Australia. 🇦🇺 I saved $200 buying there for my TSPP & it looks GREAT! 👍

[@Charlies1970TA]

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

[@MattyK695]

Sounds like a hit piece

[@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.

[@808zhu]

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

[@MrRicard2798]

It is actually WORSE than depicted in the video. for example, I bought a TMNT Pro at launch, and it came with playfield art issues (bad printing), u soldered wires and balls suffered magnetization. i called sterns to address these issues since day one of arrival, and TO THIS DAY I still have not received my replacement playfield. I CAN PROVIDE THE BACK AND FORTH EMAILS WHERE THEY MAKE EXCUSE AFTER EXCUSE TO NOT PROVIDE WARRANTY SERVICE, even though I made my claim within the 60 day warranty! They keep claiming that cause of covid, they have a hard time sourcing the replacement playfield... yet during my wait, they have released 2 newer pinballs, and i know that there are several TMNT pro pins they could provide to replace mine... but I guess they rather keep delaying my replacement until I GIVEUP!

[@seminoleplumbing]

How did this end up going for you?

[@sed6]

7:31 "You have to wonder how I spread these problems actually are..." or we could be like you and just presume the worst case scenario. Really it sounds like you're raising an alarm when no alarm needs to be raised. Seems to mean like you have an ax to grind for no real reason.

[@johnmarshall4442]

Sounds like everyone else . Quality is not the concern anymore, they want it to break so they can sell you parts .

[@PinballExpert]

Yes, that's one approach some companies adopt and one of the reasons I 100% avoid them when they do!

[@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

[@boogerhead0]

Thanks for great info. A few years back, I was "down under", and very, very sorry I did not take the opportunity to hunt up some of you pinheads and arcades.

[@boogerhead0]

Another thing, the move to node boards has sucked the fun out of pin maintenance and repair. TZ is and will be one of the last "new" pins I own.

[@PinballExpert]

Hopefully you'll get another chance when international travel is deemed safe again!

[@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.

[@904PinballZine]

Almost 30,000 plays on my Deadpool pro so far so...

[@robertfrost8264]

Pinball machines aren't iphones. Yet they seemed to adopt Apple planned obsolescence. With Apple you have to drop $1k to replace your hardware every few years, Stern just leads people into the same issue, but the hardware costs $7k up front. You're on the hook forever after to keep the machine working, yeah?

[@PinballExpert]

There are other manufacturers of both phones and pinballs, you don't HAVE to buy Apple or Stern, I don't.

[@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!

[@Pinballroomcville]

Thank you so much I was about to order a new Stern! Not Guna now I’ll keep chasing the oldies 😀

[@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

[@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.

[@blupeterb254b9]

Completely invalid reason. SMD is far more reliable and new Sterns in the field prove this. You don't see old machines operating reliably, nowhere.

[@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.

[@alpha9526]

the New York state legislature has passed the "right to repair" bill that will require digital electronics manufacturers to make parts, tools, information, and software available to consumers and independent repair shops. This should cover the Spike2 system, it will just take someone filing a lawsuit to get the information out.

[@PinballExpert]

That's good to hear. Louis Rossmann has been championing Right to Repair in New York. I wonder if this new law ensure parts prices are not a complete ripoff!

[@anonony9081]

Wow the fact that they use the same name as your old video means they're probably trying to beat you in the search engine optimization. They want to be the first result if people look up that question not you. The good news is I'm new to pinball and your video has come up in my feed several times and I've never seen theirs. I was pricing out a new iron maiden but I really don't think I can buy it after seeing things like surface mount LEDs...totally unnecessary

[@PinballExpert]

Yes, copying my title was definitely an attempt by Stern to divert attention away from my video rather than respond to issues I highlighted. Lots of valid questions remain unanswered by Stern and that tells you alot about Sterns pinballs.

[@Zensiji]

@Pinball Expert - Would you ever be interested in designing your own pinball machine?

[@ryrysonic9]

I refuse to buy newer made - new - era stern pinball machines even here in america! they are overpriced for what you get! ill stick with companies like spooky pinball who make awesome pins like the Scooby - Doo where are you pinball,,Looney tunes, Halloween etc,,

[@PinballExpert]

Being informed before you buy is a very important part of the selection/decision process.

[@v1rtu050]

Excellent, informative video, thanks. I have subscribed.

[@williamcorcoran8842]

These pinball machines have always had 90 day warranties. These are not consumer machines. Caveat emptor!

[@brucema38]

Wow Buyer beware.good one

[@nena_nezali]

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

[@sircampbell1249]

It's all about sales and greed...

[@PinballExpert]

That certainly seems to be the ongoing case with Stern.