Havent got any RB or GH, pls help thinking of getting Beatles...

[MrMister111]

Hi

I have played on a friends RB and GH, but havent got any of the games myself. When the Beatles RockBand came out I though its time!!

I have a PS3 Slim recently bought.

I can only afford the Beatles Value edition for the PS3 (I live in UK).

So can you tell me what instruments are in this edition? Are they RockBand 1 or RockBand 2 instruments? And are the Guitar and Drums both wireless?

Ive heard that the RockBand 2 instruments are better and more compatible, for Guitar Hero as well?

I will probably get other RB and Gh games later ad so want the best I can get instrument wise now.

Are the instruments in Beatles Value Edition good enough?
cheers

[vcalzone]

They suck, they're the old versions.

Here's what you do, two choices:
1. Buy a Rock Band 2 kit for not much money, buy the Beatles game in addition. This will not run you much more than the Value edition.
2. Buy Beatles game only, buy used or refurb instruments. This will be the cheapest option, but... you know, used/refurb instruments, if you care.

[kurath]

They are the Rock Band 1 instruments. I had both an RB1 strat and an RB2 strat and didn't notice a major difference (besides auto calibration). However, the drums are a bit less reliable, though if you check up on the sock mod, they work fine except for the pedal which will just come down to how hard you play it.

As for compatibility, there should be no issues there between RB/GH with those instruments. If you're starting out, you're not going to really get a cheaper deal and it won't be bad since thats all you can afford, but if you plan on focusing on a single instrument, then I probably wouldn't bother with the full pack and either pick up an RB2 guitar or GHWT guitar depending on which you prefer (most stores have displays, you can see which feels better) or for the drums, I'd recommend the RB2 drums as they're the best for a reasonable price.

[SystemSCSnake]

There is a Rock Band - The Beatles version that includes Rock band instruments, just look that up it's in stores and is 50 dollars cheaper than the limited edition.

Four new instrument peripherals modeled after those used by The Beatles members have been introduced alongside the game. These include a Rickenbacker 325 guitar, a Gretsch Duo Jet guitar, a Höfner bass and a Ludwig drum set. These new instrument controllers function similarly to the controllers designed for Rock Band 2, with most alterations being purely aesthetic. A "Special Edition" bundle of the game includes one Höfner bass guitar controller, one Ludwig-branded drum controller, a microphone, a microphone stand and Beatles-themed postcards. The Rickenbacker and Gretsch guitar peripherals are sold separately

All currently available Rock Band peripherals are compatible with their respective console version of The Beatles: Rock Band. Similarly, peripherals designed for The Beatles: Rock Band are backward compatible with other Rock Band titles. Some controllers designed for Guitar Hero games will also work with The Beatles: Rock Band

http://gearmedia.ign.com/gear/image/article/991/991413/e3-2009-the-beatles-rock-band-instrument-impressions-20090603104837287_640w.jpg

Rock Band is fun is definitely worth while if you get good at it, or have lots of friends come over and play it too.

[MrMister111]

There is a Rock Band - The Beatles version that includes Rock band 2 instruments, just look that up it's in stores and is 50 dollars cheaper than the limited edition.


where is this? I cannot afford the limited edition bundle with the authenticate instruments,, I want a value edition, but with the RB 2 instruments if your right in what your saying is available. I live in UK, can you tell me what the name of the bundle is with the RB 2 instruments please?

Man, this is a cheeky way to flog the old instruments then isnt it :(

So they are definitely RB 1 instruments, just I read somewhere they they were RB 2 ones.

I cant find the band in a box for rock band 2. The software only is £40. I dont fancy used instruments, as I bet a lot of them have been "rocked out" a bit too much.

I just persuaded the wife to buy me this for my birthday soon, now I'm wondering about the set, because of them being RB 1 instruments

Does the guitar have the slider bit on now for the Beatles set (RB 1 set)?

Also my mate says the RB 1 drums as you say something about it to, were a bit rubbish?

[SystemSCSnake]

No the RB1 Instruments are all rubbish, I'd suggest just buying Rock Band 2 and when the time comes, buy Rock Band : The Beatles.

Rock Band Guitar has no slider, but solo buttons.

Also, seperate drum sets and guitars are expensive, you'd pay more if you bought everything seperately with The Beatles : Rock Band

[Koolkitties]

Get rock band 2 bundle and beatles, it's the same price, but with two games.

[MrMister111]

Man are they really that bad? I'm disappointed now. I want the Beatles edition, but no way can afford (or justify) £160 for the limited edition.

I was hoping the RB 2 instruments would be included, although someone above says theres an edition with RB 2 instruments?

I dont know what to do now, I cant find any band in a box RB 2 instruments (in UK online), I was all ready for the wife to go ahead and order, but now the replies on here about the RB 1 instruments have left me wondering.

"Help! I need somebody, Help!...."

[ArchangelZero]

Buy a RB2 band kit and buy TB:RB separately.

[MrMister111]

I cannot find a Rock Band 2 bundle anywhere in UK online, can someone help please.

Al the "band in a box" are RB 1.

I'm wanting a drum, guitar (and maybe mic) please

cheers

[DookieMan]

As I'm not familiar with the UK prices, I'd like to get some things down so I and maybe some others can help.

How much is an RB1 band bundle?
How much is an RB2 band bundle?
How much is a Beatles value bundle?
How much is a Beatles Special Edition?

[MrMister111]

Ok sorry. All in UK pounds

RB 1 instrument only set I have found for £60 (does this inc Guitar, Drums & Mic?)

RB2 Instrument set cannot find anywhere

Beatles value edition £99

Beatles Limited edition £160

I really dont know what to do now, with some people saying that RB 1 kit is rubbish - is it really that bad, and a bad move for me to get the value edition then?

[DookieMan]

Hm... in the US, we don't even have these "instrument only" sets you talk about.

I'll try to think of something, but while I do... How much is a Beatles: Rock Band game only?

Also, what about RB1 and RB2 game and instrument sets, together? Do you guys in the UK possibly not even have those?

[MrMister111]

£40 or maybe about £35 with a discount.

What do you have in US then please? Didnt realise it was different around the world.

I think you can buy the RB2 instruments seperate, but that would be really expensive, as I want drums and guitar at least

The Beatles Value Edition seemed good value, are the instruments that bad?

[Tail-Fluff]

I honestly don't have that much of a problem with the RB1 guitar. Differences I've noticed with the guitar are that the RB1 is more plastic-y and clunkier, making a louder click noise when you press the fret buttons. The RB2 guitar is quieter, and overall nicer looking. But as far as real mechanical advantages that I've noticed, none. I heard something about the strum bar being a little improved, but I don't know much about that. I have a really old RB1 guitar controller, and I seem to be so used to it that I do a lot worse with the newer one ;P

Anyway, sorry for the wall of text - if it's what you can afford now, I would go with it. As long as you plan on upgrading at a later date, I don't see any problem with it. It's not like you haven't done research on it, so there's no need to feel guilty about it either. I did the same exact thing for myself - I just got the old guitar controller, borrowed RB2 drums, and used my xbox live mic. Saved a load of money, and the only disadvantage is the xbox mic. Just raise the volume and you barely notice the clicky sounds. I can't speak for the RB1 drums though.

[DookieMan]

£40 or maybe about £35 with a discount.

What do you have in US then please? Didnt realise it was different around the world.

I think you can buy the RB2 instruments seperate, but that would be really expensive, as I want drums and guitar at least

The Beatles Value Edition seemed good value, are the instruments that bad?

In the US, we don't have instrument sets at all. Instead, instruments are sold individually, or they are sold in a set that includes the game.

[vcalzone]

DUH! UK!

OK, that's why. EA is lame and won't release the good instruments in the UK. REALLY lame.

My advice to getting the best possible instruments would be to order internationally, but then you might have issues with proper warranty coverage, compatibility with your console, etc. A UK user may be able to help more, and if you search for something like "rb2 instruments uk" on the forums (or through Google), you might find advice.

After a quick search (used rb2 instruments uk site:rockband.com if you're interested), I got the following interesting advice:

Ebay is another option and if you ask nicely, some sellers will declare a low value on the item if it's from the US.

That might be a good idea. Ebay.com has several sellers offering the Rock Band 2 kit at a low price (one I just saw was $99 USD). In my experience, if you communicate with experienced eBay sellers with lots of feedback, they will work with you.

[mclumpo]

Man, if it's only 71 more pounds you should save like 2 more weeks and just get the good one. the rb1 guitar is wired and the strum bar is squishy and the drums are ****e.

It's really worth getting the good stuff.

[MrMister111]

So the instruments in value edition are not even all wireless ones? I want the very least to be all wireless though. I will have to check before buying as if not then its a definate no no. Gettins mixed reviews off people now saying kit is rubbish/kit is ok!?!

[TheyAreNext]

Check the argos catalog. RB2 band-in-a-box is £88 (I know they do this for 360, I have no idea if they stock or sell for other consoles). That comes without game though, so you'd have to buy that at a later date. Or you could get it while you're in argos I suppose, since they stock the game too for PS3 and 360.

As far as peripherals, I believe both games use wired microphones, I know RB2 has wireless drums and RB1 has wired drums. All guitars are wireless. As far as playability goes, the RB1 mic is good, the RB1 guitar is good but isn't really a long term investment (a magnet's broken off on my downstrum twice), and the RB1 drums are okay but not reliable. If you're going to be playing seriously and going for scores the RB2 kit is definately the way to go. If you're going to be playing casually just get the RB1 value bundle.

[ScreamingJay]

Hi, I live in the UK and have a similar issue.

Basically, the Rock Band 2 instruments have not been released here so unless you buy the Rock Band Beatles Premium Bundle you won't be able to get wireless instruments in the UK (there is the 'import from the US' option but I wouldn't trust compatibility).

I have the Rock Band 1 instruments and they are all wired (and these are also what you get in the Beatles Value Bundle):

1 Wired Mic
1 Wired Drum Kit
1 Wired Guitar

Personally I feel these instruments are fine and I've been playing them without a problem for over a year. But if you were set on a Wireless setup then you'd need to get the Beatles Premium Bundle.

Finally, whichever setup you choose, I would also consider investing in the Singstar two Wireless Mic set (£29.99) which would allow you to do the vocal harmonies in the Beatles game.

[MrMister111]

Thanks for replys. Understand why I cant find the RB 2 instruments now as you say there not released!?! Did they not do a band in a box for RB 2 then? So the value edition is definately all wiped instruments? I am just a casual games so Im thinking the instruments would be ok but I really expected them to be wireless. Dont want to import really and cant justify the premium edition. Dont know what to do now?

[Patchanka]

The real problem is that EA didn't release the RB2 instruments in Europe. The only "RB2-like" instruments here are the TB:RB ones.

You have a lot of options:
1 - The "Value Edition". The instruments are RB1: wired and worse - but not THAT worse. I recommend that you try; if you like them, go for it.
2 - Import a RB2 kit. I really don't recommend that, you can have a lot of problems importing something that huge.
3 - Pick more money and go for the TB:RB Limited Edition Bundle. OK, it's more expensive, but the instruments are better and wireless. If you can afford, go for it - but try the "Value Edition" first.
4 - You don't really need to go for the complete band right now... You could buy just a guitar and go for the bundle (to complete a band with two guitars) later. You also can buy unofficial instruments if you are THAT desperate. The guitars are terrible, but if you want to sing Dealextreme has some cheap (and slightly less reliable) microphones for $10-15, with free shipping worldwide.

[MrMister111]

Gutted that the value edition are wired then. I have played just guitars before so wanted drums to this time thats all. The single instrument pack look good but will be very expensive again. Can you buy the drums seperate like? Cheers

[ScreamingJay]

The RB Beatles guitar packs cost £84.99 and that is without the game (which would add another £30 at least)

The RB Beatles value pack gives you the game, guitar, mic and drums for only £99.99

They are the RB1 instruments (i.e. wired) but other than that they work fine and I wouldn't want you to miss out on the joys of drumming!

[MrMister111]

Never tried the drums so was wanting a laugh (or is that the wife wanting it!?!) mmm I think the instruments will be ok just would have preferred wireless. I take it the only lead is the USB one for each instrument? Do they need any extra batteries to? How long is the lead? Also do the drums fold away? Or pack away easy? They will have to be packed away when not used thats all.

[ScreamingJay]

Yep, the only lead for each instrument is the USB one (which means there is no need for batteries as they are powered through the USB). The leads are long enough to go the width of my living room and I've never had a problem when we've had people over for a Rock Band party. Finally, the drums come apart and pack away easily (which is what we do). No space to leave them set up all the time!

[dark_archon]

Whoa, guys, you are confused.

Rock Band 1 guitars are WIRELESS. Only the drums and the mic are wired.

The Rock Band 2 instruments were never released in the UK in ANY FORM. There was only a single shipment of Rock Band 2 XBox 360 instruments. Those were very limited and never got restocked. There are no Rock Band 2 instruments in the UK for the Wii nor for the PS3.

The only way to get the Rock Band 2 instruments is by getting the Limited Edition Beatles bundle.

So your only choice is the VALUE Beatles Bundle. That includes the SECOND VERSION of the Rock Band 1 instruments (the improved ones, not the crappy ones) - a wireless guitar, drumkit (wired) and a microphone (all RB mics are wired, but you can use the wireless Singstar microphones if you prefer) and the Beatles: Rock Band game.

[dark_archon]

I have the Rock Band 1 instruments and they are all wired (and these are also what you get in the Beatles Value Bundle):

1 Wired Mic
1 Wired Drum Kit
1 Wired Guitar

And sorry for a double post, but I just had to re-comment after reading this. This is impossible. There are no WIRED PS3 Rock Band guitars. The official Rock Band 1 guitar for the PS3 is wireless conected to the system via an USB dongle.

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2007/09/rock-band-guitbox-490.jpg

[jmlSBFC]

And sorry for a double post, but I just had to re-comment after reading this. This is impossible. There are no WIRED PS3 Rock Band guitars. The official Rock Band 1 guitar for the PS3 is wireless conected to the system via an USB dongle.

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2007/09/rock-band-guitbox-490.jpg

but the x-box guitar is wired and you should also get a 4 way usb hub in the box

[dark_archon]

but the x-box guitar is wired and you should also get a 4 way usb hub in the box

...Which is completely irrelevant to the topic at hand as the OP is looking for a bundle worth his money for the PS3, not XBox.

[MrMister111]

Your confused!?! What about me? So the drums and mic are wired but the guitar is wireless that's not too bad after all then

also it sounds good news that someone says it's not the 1st generation RB 1 instruments but the updated RB 1 ones which must be better?

I wish someone had bought the UK value edition to confirm this all.

I think the value edition is a good deal if it's a wireless guitar, and the instruments are updated not 1st gen ones?

[ScreamingJay]

And sorry for a double post, but I just had to re-comment after reading this. This is impossible. There are no WIRED PS3 Rock Band guitars. The official Rock Band 1 guitar for the PS3 is wireless conected to the system via an USB dongle.

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2007/09/rock-band-guitbox-490.jpg

Just as well I was describing my own setup in that post (which is XBOX 360). Not so impossible after all... ;-)

Anyway, I didn't realise that PS3 had wireless guitars from RB1 so that just reaffirms my advice that the Value bundle is the way to go.

[MrMister111]

I agree now if the PS3 version does at least have a wireless guitar, then the value bundle seems good deal.

What's the drums like then? Heard good and bad on this thread about them. I'm a casual gamer so won't be thrashing them, so hopefully they will last!

Is there any beatles branding on the kit in the value bundle at all? Gonna tell the wife the deals back on now then, although I will be there when buying anyway probably so will ask them to confirm the PS3 value bundle does have the wireless guitar.

No where on the rock band beatles site does it state what's in the bundles for the different consoles and what instruments which is daft I think?

All the YouTube vids are all the premium beatles guitars unpacking

[PleasePleaseMeat]

If you can fork out the extra cash, I would recommend getting Guitar Hero drums and guitars, as they're sturdier than RB1 instruments.

www.cex.co.uk

Don't be put off by the look of the site, they're actually reliable.

Guitar Hero drums are about £40 on there, guitars £20.

It sucks that RB2 instruments were never released over here. Meh. I'll just get the cheap RB1 drums, I'm not bothered about guitar.

Hope I helped!

EDIT: Cex doesn't have GH drums, but they sell the GH3 Les Paul (which is very well-made) for £18.

http://www.cex.co.uk/products/Gaming/Console%20Gaming/Playstation3%20Accessories/index.php?sku=SPS3GUI001&name=Guitar%20Hero%203%20Les%20Paul%20Wireles%20Gu itar&mode=buy

It's compatible with Rock Band as well. Have fun!

[MrMister111]

They reduced the value bundle to £79 the limited edition to £119 and the game only to £28. Not sure for how long so ordered the limited! As was "only" going to be £20 more than I was going to pay for value originally. Good deal?

[varsas]

That's definitely a good idea, the TB instruments are superb!

It seems all the the packs have dropped in price in the UK at HMV. The individual guitars are now £64.99 too. I'm guessing the less than spectacular sales in the UK have lead to the drop? They really, really should promote Rock Band 2 over here too again!

[Rockymin]

but the x-box guitar is wired and you should also get a 4 way usb hub in the box

I bought the special value edition for Xbox and it came with a wireless guitar. I have actually read that these special value editions can come with either wired or wireless guitars regardless of platform, guess I got lucky.