question for any SV owners, is there a headphone jack on the machine? I play with headphones alot and would love to hear all the sounds and music on this one.

Does anyone know if the SV ships with HD Glass or Std Glass?

I ordered mine as well, guessing I will see it before I see my machine at this point. Please share what materials you end up using.

I agree with you @fattdirk. Just a little open communication goes a LONG way for this community. I have mods from all over the world coming for this damn machine and no idea if it will ever arrive.

Looking forward to hearing from those who are getting their pins. Please share any updates on the QC and gameplay. Be great to hear current feedback vs all of us complaining about the wait.

I am still waiting, but thrilled to see those who are getting their machines. Thank you for posting QC and feedback. Many have mentioned the dark GI, anyone have thoughts on adding mirror blades to help? I think Pinstadiums would be overkill and want to keep the dark theme going.

Did you reserve SV or LV? Congrats!

Unboxed it's right at 255lbs per their site. About the same as a Stern.

Well I just got a call from FedEx Freight, machine arrives tomorrow. Been a long wait, but I think it's gonna be worth it.

Just took delivery this AM and started going thru everything before playing. Underside looked tight, so I cleaned a few things up and started a test game. Couple questions, I am on v2.4 which setting is for the air lock scoop, it’s insanely fast and goes STDM. Also noticed the left flipper sometimes hangs when I catch a ball or double tap it. Will the Stern switches (arriving tomorrow) help with this? Xeno mag has grabbed 3/3 so far so that is a great sign as well. Looking forward to a weekend of modding and tweaking to make this beast my own.

Anyone else having their main display go out during attract mode and not come back? I have the same when I boot the game as well, always have to boot it twice.

My small display doesn’t seem to be getting power. I followed the wire to the back box and re-seated and no go. Also noticed by trough coil has a hard time ejecting a ball to start the game, particularly when the machine has been played for awhile . Anyone else seeing this?

Just another shout out to Cato and PB support model. Fast response and they are sending a new node board (#10), cable and display for my air lock display not working. It would take months for me to get a reply from someone stateside down the street from me in Chicago area. What a difference.

I just did both of these using an external 12v power supply. I also plan to provide power to the Apron/Beacon mod with this power supply. It's 12v and 10amp so it has plenty to push all of my mods without pulling from the machine's power.

The power supply is inside the cabinet mounted with some double sided tape and I mounted a small surge strip under my cab. Both plugs (main power and the secondary) are plugged into it, then to a smart outlet. Clean and simple setup.

Anyone still selling the airlock mod and the hypersleep mod? Would love to add some details to this beast.

PM sent, thank you!

Just a PSA, you have to replace them with the current Stern switches if you want them to have more resistance at feel. They do indeed feel very light, but you can space them a bit if they are too sensitive or replace the switches with the Stern switches if you want more the touch to be more familiar.

For those on the fence or have questions on support etc. I had one major issue with my Alien after the first week (had it since early March). The airlock monitor wasn't working, after trying the cable on my laptop and reseating cables I took a few pics opened a ticket and Cato got back to me very quickly. He sent a new monitor, board and cables just in case. After taking everything apart it appears the power wire to the monitor didn't provide enough slack causing the connector to slightly separate from the board. 20 minute board replacement and I was back in business, haven't had a single real issue since. Not trying to whine here, but to compare that to my GnR (many mutual folks here have both machines) it took six months to get the machine running smooth and get any support. So I would say PB are doing a great job and I look forward to seeing what else the future holds from them. No pinball machine company is perfect, but the fact they are working hard to support their product is a great sign in my eyes.

Hop onto PBs site for info on the scoop, they recommend you bend it. Common issue. I had the same problem on my SV, just wrap the scoop with a rag and bend it with some pliers. Hits to the left flipper everytime now. I did it while in test mode and kept putting balls in the scoop until it was bent enough.
Pitch recommended at 6.5, I am 6.7ish and plays great for me. On your jets/pops (the eggs) check the spoons underneath the PF to make sure the gap is consistent for the switch to engage the coil.

https://pinballbrothers.freshdesk.com/support/solutions/articles/80000961821--how-to-adjust-airlock-scoop

I have already spent SO much on mods for this beast....but that seems to make sense for the next mod.

As seen here this scoop isn't like Stern or JJP (GnR). It's a larger housing with a subway system attached to it. So bending it is the most efficient way. You can't just put a washer in one of the holes under the PF. There isn't a washer. Some have used a small piece of foam. It is not an easy thing to adjust, but it will bend. I used short nose pliers on mine with a rag on them.

https://www.pinballbrothers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/214-50-02-00_Scoop_Back_Sub_Ass_Doc.pdf

You can replace them with Stern switches.

They will work short term but will cause problems in the long run. There is an older thread on this. Order the Stern switches and you will be set.

I do own both, in my small collection GnR (LE) gets played the least. It's a hit for someone coming over for the first time but the shots on the game a difficult for many and they say it's a beautiful game but feel very clunky at best. Alien (SV) seems to have better flow but most newbies also say, they love the theme but it's a difficult game to play with the outlanes. Overall two very different games though. I find Alien to be more linear in the code, while GnR is risk vs reward.

I installed 12v LEDs in the coin button lights as I didn't like them using incandescent (Comet offers them). For the buttons and backglass along with the soon to be apron mod, I mounted a dedicated power supply. It was very easy and for this game is the safest way to mod this machine.

I don't think it's wonky, I think the optic/sensor aren't registering the ball going thru the orbits properly. My machine rarely kicks the posts up to fall in the pops. In fact, I don't think I have finished Queens Nest for example of this behaviour.

**2.7 SV update** Hey everyone just updated to 2.7 on my SV last night. Wanted to share my experience. I was on 2.4 and set everything back to factory default, rebooted and here is the rest.
The machine never asked me to update as it did in previous updates. It rebooted and then showed 2.7. I rebooted a couple times to make sure it was still showing 2.7. I went into the menu to make a few adjustments (ball save, free play etc...). Upon starting a game, everything worked fine for the initial game. I played Alien story line and just did a quick test game. After sitting in attract mode, it appeared the machine locked up. So I rebooted again, this time the main display showed the boot sequence and the PB logo but then went black and didn't come back on. The second monitor worked fine, started a game and it also played fine without the main screen. So I checked connections, everything looked fine. Rebooted again...same thing. PB logo, boot sequence and then black screen. Did it a third time and voila everything seems to be okay now. I had similar experience when I first got the machine so I wasn't too worried. I will do a longer play and burn in time tonight hoping it is okay moving forward. Now gameplay changes...
The posts for the eggs work MUCH better! The sensor actually triggers faster and lighting the LV and getting the ball into the pops works as it should. Making the modes much more fun to play. Also, while I never had major issues with the Xeno grab, it didn't miss at all in the four games I played. Stock flipper settings seem to be good on 2.7 and I can catch the ball with no flipper hang now. Overall I think this code rev is much better allowing for a better gameplay experience. I will post another update if the monitor continues, just thought it would be good to share our experiences with the code updates as we go.

I have had my machine since early March (SV). Overall minus having to reboot every now and then, the machine has been pretty stable and incredibly fun to play. I have had nine machines in my house over the last few years and while nothing is bolted to the floor, I am in no hurry to let Alien go. Take your time setting up, if you do power mods, use an external power source and play the heck out of it. It took me over six months to get my GnR setup and playing correctly, Deadpool needed washers under the ramp to protect the PF etc....the list goes on for every mfr. Hoping you get a solid running game and enjoy it.

It has not been fixed in 2.8. I have the same issue. Have to reboot once or twice and it seems to correct on its own though.

Outpost is correct. I boot my games and walk away for a bit, so nobody is touching them as they boot. I agree that it is likely a graphics driver conflict of some sort. I also get the linux boot at bios start up. Hopefully it will be resolved in a future patch. Game has progressed nicely so far.

I didn't have the issue on 2.4 when I first got the machine, so I think it's still a software bug.

Lightest pin I have moved to my basement in years. Wasn't bad at all. I think the 250 is shipping weight vs actual.

Very interested in this add on to your already awesome mod!

Anyone know who is making the green plastic protectors for the SV? I have seen pics but can't seem to find a store selling them.

I put mylar on the playfield around the magnet day one. the tounge itself seems to be good on mine after 9 months of playing it.

curious on update order, do you usually do firmware then software, or the other way around for PB machines?

I updated the firmware on my SV to .71, it's wonderful having the quiet xeno. But now my machine won't take the 3.0 to 3.1 software upgrade. Also had the tongue just staying out after Ambush on a game. Going to play a few more then try to reinstall 3.1 after reboots. Love the game, but would like to see some consistency on the code updates.

Also a note for SV owners, I just got confirmation from PB Support. The light up stand up targets are still "not supported on the SV" so PB will not be sending a connector for the 5th LED to light up, and per support connecting the JST connectors to the standups can "void warranty" as they were never supported in the SV. Just sharing what was sent to me this AM.

No offense taken here. I was shocked to get that reply from PB support. They also won't sell or ship me the connector cable to enable the 5th standup target. It's truly a head scratcher. Their support has been pretty solid for me since day one (early SV here) so to get that response from them was a little surprising. They do sell the connector cable on their parts site, but it isn't in stock currently, which I also found odd based on the email from support saying they don't offer the connector cable.

https://www.free-play.se/en/game-specific-parts/pinball-brothers/alien/master-to-slave-playfield-board-cable.html
Here is the cable I was looking at. Baggerman, you seeing the same? I also put a note in for one. I get the human error part, it happens in any business. Just surprised at the lack of support for something that is there and built in the machine.

Good catch, thank you for that. So I guess it comes down to where can we get the cable?

Very good point Mageek. I thought my SV was early but apparently I lucked out having the connections there.

For those who haven't seen the apron mod, I just finished the install today on my SV. It's awesome

Beacons were included with the Apron mod (they are also programable). It looks fantastic in person and they aren't over the top, a great feature/immersion vs distraction.

Not looking to knock the LV but I’ll say this, the apron mod with beacons uses the beacons a lot more than the stock LV. I have the SV with beacons and my buddy has the LV I was surprised at how little the beacons are used in the LV code. I personally enjoy the Apron beacon effect.

Awesome job taking the high road and sharing your experience. For the drops, the newer version are painted so the optos will see the drops. I used black nail polish on my tabs so the optos would see the targets come down. Hope you get the full experience of what this game can be. It's a blast to play.

I think PB is doing the right thing here. Lowering their price to be in line with OG SV pricing. Yes it’s limited, but new code for all and this allows them to move their focus to their next title without screwing existing buyers. The current market will make it tough for some of the big guys to churn games at 10-15k per pop every year. I also like that they are taking care of their existing customers to buy mods for our existing games if we want.

I have the same issue and when I went to correct it, the solder spot on the wireform broke. So I ordered a replacement wireform.

Just my two cents, I ordered thru a trusted distributor. He requested I pay in full vs deposit. I am guessing the deposits will be filled and they go from there. Lior doesn't make have the scale to make 1000's of these so I wouldn't be surprised if the 300 is accurate.

Yes it did, the left end was a tad longer and that same side is where the weld/solder broke. I plan to file it down so they are even and then I have a spare wireform.

as long as I hear "get away from her you bitch" it will be a good add on

anyone order from the pbusa site for parts? I have been waiting for a ramp for almost six weeks. My right ramp weld broke again (likely due to the wires being uneven at the turn). I have it wired down but would like to get the part so I can replace it.

Looks like some great add ons to the code. Polish and some new features with mystery and seeing Ripley just brings it all together. Now if I can just play better!

It does but will require the .72 firmware update that hasn't been published yet. It's in the notes for 4.0.

Boards need to be updated to support the light show according to the notes. The topper is supported in code, but firmware sending data to the bus for lights is probably what will need an update. Two different things, like Stern with code and Node board updates. PB just does them separately. Or at least have in the past.

Firmware and code update are two separate processes. In 3.0 or 3.2 directions it will guide you thru the order. You should be on firmware .71 for the 4.0 code install.

The SV didn't have a limit, but it is being discontinued. The LV (per PB) is close to selling out. The RV is essentially replacing the SV moving forward.

Question for those that got the shaker kit. The original controller box on the SV has a USB cable plugged in the rear side next to the ethernet. The new controller box doesn't have said USB port for that cable. Where did you plug the cable? My buddy's SV is in limbo because of this. Thank you!

I paid in full with a distributor, but they told me to expect the topper in Feb. Lior has been behind for awhile with the conflict going on, it's understandable there will be delays.

The shaker kit is on their site, as they ship the other products late this month/early Feb they should post the instructions.

A few things to check before booting up the game. Before putting balls in, lift the playfied to its upright position. It's different on these games compared to others, get used to that. Check all the standup targets from under the playfield and make sure they are screwed very tight. Most people's standup targets had to be tightened at least once in the earlier releases. Do a quick check to make sure all the cables in the controller box are in (box in the cabinet) and make sure the coil stops are nice and tight on all four flippers. Add a mylar circle around the Xeno magnet on the playfield. Last but not least, update the code right away, you will be glad you did! The game a amazing, welcome to the club and enjoy it!

The coin door lights are 12v so in theory yes. I ended up putting a separate power supply for mods in my Alien SV. Button lights, apron mod loaded along with a few other things for the back box. I doubt adding a tiny bit of draw on the 12v coin bulbs will do much. I actually put in green led bulbs in the coin door as well. Hence why I figured out they are 12v.

I have had a few issues with PB USA replying to emails. There is an error on my topper order, along with me having to hound them for replacement parts I ordered with no confirmation for weeks. Hoping they get things straightened out.

Curious question for the group. I ordered a shaker/board kit in January. I have yet to get an eta or shipping details. This is the second time I have had to reach out to PBUSA for a part order and status. Have you all seen the same? I am patient, and don't mind waiting but I feel as though I have to remind them I have an order to be filled yet again.

My SV is at 7 and it plays wonderful.

Updated to 4.11 and now the ball won't come out of the trough. I go into coil test mode and it shoots the balls out just fine. Anyone else have this issue?

Yes both are up to date.

Software then firmware

Check your shakers. The wires were rubbing up against the shaker arm. I bent it down but still don’t feel confident it will be safe. The metal arms on the shaker will go thru that quick. Don’t wanna someone frying their game.

IMG_4097 (resized).jpeg

Full paid in Oct as well. They will get here, just unfortunate delays. Prefer not hearing two weeks for the last six plus, that's probably the most frustrating part of it.