This guy is no expert. He took the time out to record his own opinion. What he neglected to put in his video was that he was parallel importing Stern Spike games in to Australia and selling them. Everything about Stern Spike was fine right up until Stern stopped him importing the games, and requested that he go through the Australian distributer. Sour grapes hanging everywhere in his video.

We have 5 Spike games right now and all are working fine. All new games use this sort of electrical system, so if you want a new game, that is what you get. The games are extremely expensive in Australia, we think they are worth every cent! Spike 2 has a bit better sound and runs the colour LCD. Other pinsiders know a lot mare than I do about the differences, I am sure they will post.

Spike has both. Some of the bulbs are individual and some are the led board. We have had Spike since GBLE early 2016 and have never replaced a soldered LED. I actually like this system better, no mucking around with faulty sockets and lights that do not work. Stern have been using these solder LED boards since 2011 or before.

It is extremely disappointing when people (Mark) do not have the best intentions when making videos like that. I forgot to mention Mark also sells second hand machines. The beauty of Pinside is that we all get to share our information about pinball in one place. Most people are genuine. some not so much.

We have had an issue with nearly every new pinball machine we have ever bought. We buy Stern and CGC from 2 different distributers. The issues have ranged from very small to very big. Stern and CGC have looked after us every time. I am sure that JJP are the same. Like every hobby, pinball has its ups and downs. Get yourself a good distro and enjoy pinball! We love the latest Stern releases. Machines are awesome and the sales support is just as good.

Good Luck! I wish you all the best. remember, there is never a wrong decision in pinball.. only learning experiences!