MP-11ND Masterpiece Dirge

[Borgeman]

From planet iacon, via tfw:
http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/transformers-news-rumors/1080022-masterpiece-dirge.html#post13818478

http://i.imgur.com/cLDpIdQ.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/UUhYP4U.jpg

[DELTAprime]

Well it was bound to happen.

[Megatran]

They could have at least put Dirge's concussion missile on correctly in jet mode. :rolleyes:

[Chevron Action Flash]

Eff me this looks ace! Thrust is my fave G1 plane. But damn Dirge looks nice.

[kurdt_the_goat]

They could have at least put Dirge's concussion missile on correctly in jet mode. :rolleyes:

Their placard calls him Drige lol

[Ralph Wiggum]

Another TT mall exclusive? May as well follow the others TT...:rolleyes:

[zaneiken]

Now we wait for PC to put up pre-orders for everyone to play the refresh game.

[DaptoDog]

This is like Fast & Furious with all these seekers coming out. Great stuff!

[1AZRAEL1]

Was only a matter of time. Just didn't think it would be so quick. My wallet gonna feel it

[GoktimusPrime]

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/avatars/meme_shutuptakemoney_zps76ac2e92.jpg

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

Why oh why did they go with grey and not black? :confused:

[Bidoofdude]

Purple kneepads work great against the blues. Looks nice.

[spiderken17]

I new it would be coming but its sooner than i would have liked. Oh well, i hope i can get one from PC.

[GoktimusPrime]

Why oh why did they go with grey and not black? :confused:
'Cos (http://img142.poco.cn/mypoco/myphoto/20130715/12/5951558020130715121351071.jpg) show (http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/f/f0/Gambler_Gyconi_Ramjet_and_Dirge.jpg) accuracy (http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/6/67/Gambler_Dirge_on_Ramjet_action.jpg), that's (https://tfsourcearticles.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/mmpcap14.jpg) why (https://buffetcritico.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/54-la-chica-que-amc3b3-a-powerglide-avi_000089556.jpg?w=1000). :o

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

'Cos (http://img142.poco.cn/mypoco/myphoto/20130715/12/5951558020130715121351071.jpg) show (http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/f/f0/Gambler_Gyconi_Ramjet_and_Dirge.jpg) accuracy (http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/6/67/Gambler_Dirge_on_Ramjet_action.jpg), that's (https://tfsourcearticles.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/mmpcap14.jpg) why (https://buffetcritico.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/54-la-chica-que-amc3b3-a-powerglide-avi_000089556.jpg?w=1000). :o

But then wouldn't that mean MP Ramjet is the wrong colour since they're both the same coloured black/grey in those shots of them together? :confused:

So either way, one of them is wrong! :D

[GoktimusPrime]

But then wouldn't that mean MP Ramjet is the wrong colour since they're both the same coloured black/grey in those shots of them together? :confused:

So either way, one of them is wrong! :D
MP Ramjet and Thrust are sporting toy-accurate black, while MP Dirge is sporting show-accurate grey. So they're all correct...
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/avatars/meme_obiwan_pov_zpsjd3cboua.gif ;)

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

MP Ramjet and Thrust are sporting toy-accurate black, while MP Dirge is sporting show-accurate grey. So they're all correct...
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/avatars/meme_obiwan_pov_zpsjd3cboua.gif ;)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1uTsqJVAeo

[DELTAprime]

Also keep in mind it's pictures from a convention floor of a prototype. Prototypes are not always in the final colours.

[drifand]

Here we go again

[MayzaPrime]

Here we go again

Yep... cant wait :D:D:D

[drifand]

So that should be all the seekers or TT wants a shot at acid rain and others I wonder.

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

So that should be all the seekers or TT wants a shot at acid rain and others I wonder.

New mold in a year or two and start the milking process all over again! :p

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

Shots from ACG 2016 (via Hobbybase (https://www.facebook.com/Hobbybase/photos/pcb.1331407870220834/1331451560216465/?type=3&theater)):

http://i.imgur.com/iUo9CX2.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/q4GW0Kx.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/RnHfCSW.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/aqI4Bgh.jpg

[philby]

cool, I like the angry head sculpt hehe. It would be nice to get more options though. Hmm, I am up for this despite my trust level dropping a little and the lack of value for money. I suppose I am part of the problem.... :/

[dirge]

I just might be interested...

[drifand]

I just might be interested...

I think you definitely need this. Lol

[Chevron Action Flash]

I know this thread is about Dirge but.... THRUST!!!!!!!!!!

[Jazzman]

Man, I know TakTom has to keep up with the 3rd party figures but my wallet is hurting so bad... Looks amazing, though!

[GoktimusPrime]

I know this thread is about Dirge but.... THRUST!!!!!!!!!!
Here (http://otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?t=23007) ya go. ;)

[drifand]

Man, I know TakTom has to keep up with the 3rd party figures but my wallet is hurting so bad... Looks amazing, though!

They already had this ready long ago, these are the time delay for new MPs they have and I believe that will be revealed soon enough what they have been working on.

[Jazzman]

They already had this ready long ago, these are the time delay for new MPs they have and I believe that will be revealed soon enough what they have been working on.

Yeah, the rush is on... :D

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

Whilst they do look great together (https://www.facebook.com/TransformersHongKong/photos/a.1046596758755789.1073741831.208075429274597/1048883818527083/?type=3&theater), I wish there was a little more consistency amongst the three with regards to the black and grey (black and charcoal would've looked a lot better!):

http://i.imgur.com/7PvQKxO.jpg

And the weird-ass wing joint? :confused:

http://i.imgur.com/PEtQP28.jpg

[drifand]

I do wish Dirge had black instead of the dull grey

[1AZRAEL1]

I don't, makes him somewhat cartoon accurate

[Ralph Wiggum]

I still reckon the animators used dark grey to portray black with details and texture. The below pic shows they should all be the same, yet Ramjet is highly likely to be my favourite because he is the only one with the smoke black.

https://tfsourcearticles.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/mmpcap04.jpg

[GoktimusPrime]

Whilst they do look great together (https://www.facebook.com/TransformersHongKong/photos/a.1046596758755789.1073741831.208075429274597/1048883818527083/?type=3&theater), I wish there was a little more consistency amongst the three with regards to the black and grey (black and charcoal would've looked a lot better!):
You could always paint over it if it bugs you that much. :o


And the weird-(donkey) wing joint? :confused:
It allows Dirge to achieve greater cartoon likeness. Ramjet didn't need them because the cartoon usually shrank his wings (https://media3.giphy.com/media/wJC8YwmGMtApa/200_s.gif) in robot mode. They only came up to his hip level, whereas the G1 mould's wings went straight up behind his armpits (http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/f/f1/G2_Ramjet_toy.jpg).

G1 cartoon Dirge's wings similarly shrink (http://fairplaythings.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/02-09-dirge2.jpg) and only come up to hip level. But unlike Ramjet, Dirge's wing tips have a distinctive set of additional smaller wings (which actually makes it impossible for Dirge to fly (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernoulli%27s_principle), but let's continue to suspend disbelief (http://i.imgur.com/2jsfax6.jpg) :p) which would be lost if Dirge were allowed to transform in the same way as Ramjet. But these ridiculously oversized wings cannot remain a single piece for the MPs, not only because of wanting to come down to hip level, but also because if the wings were attached to both the body and legs then it would further restrict leg poseability... although it looks already restricted as it is, I don't know how you could make MP Dirge execute dynamic leg movements like kicks etc. It's almost looks like he's wearing leg braces. Run, Forrest, run. :p

[Borgeman]

G1 cartoon Dirge's wings similarly shrink (http://fairplaythings.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/02-09-dirge2.jpg) and only come up to hip level. But unlike Ramjet, Dirge's wing tips have a distinctive set of additional smaller wings (which actually makes it impossible for Dirge to fly (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernoulli%27s_principle), but let's continue to suspend disbelief (http://i.imgur.com/2jsfax6.jpg) :p) which would be lost if Dirge were allowed to transform in the same way as Ramjet.

Huh? Since when do winglets prevent a plane from flying?

[GoktimusPrime]

I wasn't referring to the winglets but rather the positioning of the horizontal stablisers in front of the wings. Although when I Googled it, I found that the J-20 Chengdu (http://cdn3.img.sputniknews.com/images/102695/76/1026957659.jpg) (video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6g_kTSokGU)) has a similar wing design to Dirge, so it does appear to be possible! Although unlike G1 Dirge, the wings and especially the horizontal stabilisers are positioned more forward and further apart from each other. MP Dirge G1 accurately has the horizontal stabilisers too far back compared to real life jets with this wing configuration.

Also importantly, Dirge also has no vertical stabilisers (and his winglets would be far too small to act as vertical stabilisers). But in fairness to Dirge, none of the 2nd Year Jets look like they could actually fly in real life. Thrust's winglets, while bigger than Dirge's, would probably be too small to function IRL, and while Ramjet has distinctive vertical stabilisers, although they're mounted on top of the wings instead of on the sides of the fuselage. Both Dirge and Thrust have wings where the rear edges are aligned to the afterburners. Real life jets like the J20 don't have the wings that are so back set and they definitely have vertical stabilisers along the fuselage.

[Borgeman]

Hmm, maybe Ill jump on kerbal space program and try and replicate them as best I can, since their physics replaication in game is pretty spot on

[gamblor916]

But unlike Ramjet, Dirge's wing tips have a distinctive set of additional smaller wings (which actually makes it impossible for Dirge to fly

Just sayin'

http://media.defenceindustrydaily.com/images/AIR_JAS-39_Gripen_Top_Smokewinders_lg.jpg

http://www.aerospaceweb.org/aircraft/attack/viggen/viggen_02.jpg

http://media.defenceindustrydaily.com/images/AIR_Rafale_Black_Top_Over_Water_lg.jpg

http://cdn.images.express.co.uk/img/dynamic/1/590x/free-jet-credit-PA-467524.jpg

http://defense-update.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/nellis_kfir.jpg

http://www.wou.edu/~clu06/csc625/Images/su-35/1.jpg

http://adg.stanford.edu/aa200b/potential3d/images/x29.jpg

[GoktimusPrime]

Just sayin'

(images)
Point taken, but those jets still all have vertical stablisers on the fuselage. :)

In any case, the wing joint appears to be there to maintain G1 accuracy on the MP toy plus allow for length reduction and some degree of leg movement in robot mode. :cool:

[gamblor916]

http://www.aero-news.net/images/content/sportav/2002/velocity-xlrg-1202a.jpg

[GoktimusPrime]

Yeah, but that has significantly large winglets which appear to be acting as vertical stabilisers. In fact...
"Winglets served double duty on Burt Rutan's canard pusher configuration VariEze and Long-EZ, acting as both a wingtip device and a vertical stabilizer. Several other derivatives of these and other similar aircraft use this design element." (source (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vertical_stabilizer))
But I don't know if such proportionately small winglets on Dirge's wings could effectively double as vertical stabilisers.

[Borgeman]

Dirge's ult mode will fly, it might not be a very efficient design on a fighter jet per se but it will work.
Stabilisers are preferred on delta wings over larger winglets which is another reason you dont see dirges being built.
But the B2 Stealth Bomber has neither and still flies fine, so thats one example.

Anyway, were going a wee off track from what is the MP release of a toy with fictionally modified wing design on an F-15 body.

[Ralph Wiggum]

Good lord, I can't believe we're debating the flyability of Dirge.

But it we must, look at Thrust's wings. Is there a real world equivalent/similarity?

[drifand]

Good lord, I can't believe we're debating the flyability of Dirge.

But it we must, look at Thrust's wings. Is there a real world equivalent/similarity?

As an ex aircraft engineer , I just shut up. Lol
I prefer we focus on the toy about likes and dislikes.
I am thinking of how I want to display all my seekers.
While normally I display in bot mode, I think I would like to change this time round.

[Ralph Wiggum]

As an ex aircraft engineer , I just shut up. Lol
I prefer we focus on the toy about likes and dislikes.
I am thinking of how I want to display all my seekers.
While normally I display in bot mode, I think I would like to change this time round.

Lol!

The only seeker I have displayed in alt mode is Hasbro Skywarp, and that's only because I dislike the MP6 style bot mode. That'll change once MP-11SW comes in. I'll see how Thrust looks in jet mode, the only thing putting me off is possibly the two-tone colour.

[GoktimusPrime]

Good lord, I can't believe we're debating the flyability of Dirge.
<nerdy.snort.laff> BD

But it we must, look at Thrust's wings. Is there a real world equivalent/similarity?
I did mention before that Thrust probably wouldn't fly either. None of the 2nd Year Jets look like they can fly, or if they can, not very well. But yeah, these are fictitiously modified F15s, and hey, if something as ridiculously shaped as Cosmos can fly in Earth's atmosphere, why not these jets? Besides, we all know the real reason as to why they can all actually fly... ;)


http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/avatars/meme_wizard_zpsquqhafwu.jpg

In any case, none of this reflects on the MP toy which is merely being accurate to its source material. :cool:

[Smint]

Alt mode is nice but im just not feeling the robot mode.

I'd buy all 3 and display in alt mode if money is not object.

[Lord_Zed]

<nerdy.snort.laff> BD

I did mention before that Thrust probably wouldn't fly either. None of the 2nd Year Jets look like they can fly, or if they can, not very well. But yeah, these are fictitiously modified F15s, and hey, if something as ridiculously shaped as Cosmos can fly in Earth's atmosphere, why not these jets? Besides, we all know the real reason as to why they can all actually fly... ;)



If we are going by the cartoon then that's the least of our problems, how do all the Decepticons and Dinobots fly in bot mode despite having no visible means of propulsion or lift.

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

You could always paint over it if it bugs you that much. :o

Don't give me any ideas! Because my OCD may kick in and i'll end up doing it! :D


It allows Dirge to achieve greater cartoon likeness.

I know what they're there for, it just looked weird, ugly and a bit cumbersome to me.

[GoktimusPrime]

I know what they're there for, it just looked weird, ugly and a bit cumbersome to me.
Yeah, but I suppose options are limited when working on a retool of a retool (http://takaratomymall.jp/img/goods/5/4904810842613.jpg) of a retool (https://s3.amazonaws.com/tf.images/reduced-galery_image_3107_6946.jpg) of a retool (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51DBJJ12JQL.jpg). :o

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

Yeah, but I suppose options are limited when working on a retool of a retool (http://takaratomymall.jp/img/goods/5/4904810842613.jpg) of a retool (https://s3.amazonaws.com/tf.images/reduced-galery_image_3107_6946.jpg) of a retool (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51DBJJ12JQL.jpg). :o

Yeah, they really should of just made a new mold rather than retooling the existing one into dust, and the cynic in me thinks that in a year or two they will give us one just so we can hand over more money to them -- lather, rinse, repeat :rolleyes:

[GoktimusPrime]

My initial reaction would be to tell you that retooling is cheaper and helps to keep the cost of the toys down... but then this argument loses its validity considering that they've gone and made the Coneheads limited exclusives, allowing economies of scale to drive the price up anyway. :rolleyes: Considering that Ramjet, Thrust and most likely Dirge are costing me roughly double the cost of what I paid for my original MP Starscream, Skywarp and Thundercracker, I'm inclined to agree that they should've either gone with a new mould for the Coneheads or done more extensive retooling and then just sold them as mass retail figures to reduce the cost. They saw fit to produce the likes of Exhaust and Road Rage as mass retail figures but not the Coneheads? :confused:

And to make matters worse, Ramjet's instruction booklet is pretty cheap. It's better than what Hasbro would make, but no where near as good as what TakaraTOMY would normally do. The illustrations are sub-par, there's no embedded story or background explanation to the character/toy as we see with other Japanese MPs. I'd like to see more effort put in for Thrust and Dirge's booklets, but I'm not holding my breath.

[1AZRAEL1]

Yes these ones are exclusive, but is anyone actually believing they'll stay that way? They've got the molds, they'll make more with a different deco not too far down the track. Just look at the CHUG coneheads. It's gonna happen

[GoktimusPrime]

...although it took five years for HasTak to eventually release Thundercracker, Thrust and Dirge in mass retail. Hopefully it won't take that long for the MP coneheads. :rolleyes:

[ampoldj]

i still believe that they will release a three pack ace and elite set, now how much would that be :rolleyes:

[drifand]

i still believe that they will release a three pack ace and elite set, now how much would that be :rolleyes:

I doubt it as the box would be too huge, let alone their qc has been that bad you may end up with three ramjets in the box. Lol

[ampoldj]

I doubt it as the box would be too huge, let alone their qc has been that bad you may end up with three ramjets in the box. Lol

at alt mode it wont be a big box Takara should have went with shockwave box size or a slightly smaller box size from the original one when they started ramjet but some with the starscream trio may whinge at the box inconsistencies with the coneheads. and i would suggest abwindow with flap type box just to make sure you have all three and not a blind box :p

[drifand]

If they made window boxes it will never be misb let alone the instructions booklets will be all over etc. they won't make a three together because it will be dead stock and harder to sell.

[Ralph Wiggum]

TT seem to be taking a conservative approach to the Masterpiece line; I honestly don't see them releasing a 3-pack or any sort of multipack, and risk losing a chunk of money.

[UltraMarginal]

G1 cartoon Dirge's wings similarly shrink (http://fairplaythings.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/02-09-dirge2.jpg) and only come up to hip level. But unlike Ramjet, Dirge's wing tips have a distinctive set of additional smaller wings (which actually makes it impossible for Dirge to fly (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernoulli%27s_principle), but let's continue to suspend disbelief (http://i.imgur.com/2jsfax6.jpg) :p) which would be lost if Dirge were allowed to transform in the same way as Ramjet.

Uh, I beg to differ, obviously I'm not the first. :D


Huh? Since when do winglets prevent a plane from flying?

The small wings at the front of dirges alternate mode are known as canards, they are not uncommon amongst older developementel jet aircraft, as they do provide a significant amount of pitch stability and control, especially when used in conjunction with a rear horizontal stabiliser and elevator. They also adjust the location of the centre of lift of the aircraft when compared to a more traditional configuration.

The drawback of a canard is that like all practical wings, the air leaving it's trailing edge is turbulent, this effects the lift that can be generated by the wing area behind the canard. If you do a google search for 'canard aircraft' you'll see that the a lot are on propeller driven aircraft (many of which are probably prototypes), the canard and main wing are about as far from each other along the fuselage as possible and generally they are on a different plane/level, this is to reduce the amount of turbulent air interacting with the main wing. You'll also notice that the main wing is generally much longer than the canard, also driven by this.

Gamblors pics illustrate a lot of these points.



Just sayin'

http://media.defenceindustrydaily.com/images/AIR_JAS-39_Gripen_Top_Smokewinders_lg.jpg

http://www.aerospaceweb.org/aircraft/attack/viggen/viggen_02.jpg

http://media.defenceindustrydaily.com/images/AIR_Rafale_Black_Top_Over_Water_lg.jpg

http://cdn.images.express.co.uk/img/dynamic/1/590x/free-jet-credit-PA-467524.jpg

http://defense-update.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/nellis_kfir.jpg

http://www.wou.edu/~clu06/csc625/Images/su-35/1.jpg

http://adg.stanford.edu/aa200b/potential3d/images/x29.jpg



Dirge's ult mode will fly, it might not be a very efficient design on a fighter jet per se but it will work.
Stabilisers are preferred on delta wings over larger winglets which is another reason you dont see dirges being built.
But the B2 Stealth Bomber has neither and still flies fine, so thats one example.

Anyway, were going a wee off track from what is the MP release of a toy with fictionally modified wing design on an F-15 body.

Assuming that there are rudders on the wing tips of Dirges wings, they should function but I expect they would cause some issues with the development of lift from the wing. Delta wings generate a lot of their lift from vortices developed down the leading edge, I've never seen any studies showing how this is effected by winglet/rudders especially in supersonic flight but I imagine it would not be good.

Winglets have been shown to improve lift in subsonic wings which is why you see them in a lot of passenger airliners these days.

The B2 is what's known as a flying wing (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flying_wing), it is the epitome of unstable. It would not fly if it didn't have computers on board to keep it stable with constant trimming and control surface corrections, especially since it has no vertical or horizontal stabilisers to speak of.

All modern fighters are similar in that they are inherently unstable, that is the trade off required for speed and manoeuvrability. Airliners are very stable, but slower and not particularly agile. consider for comparison a fast hunting bird like an eagle going into a dive, it tucks in it's wings and becomes extremely fast and agile, when it's gliding it spreads its wings to generate as much lift as possible for minimum effort.


I've always thought that the coneheads vehicle design was an attempt to make 3 'other' jets out of the F-15 base mould with minimal change to the core.

I have always assumed that Ramjet is trying to be a Blackbird (SR-71) (https://www.google.com.au/search?q=canard&biw=922&bih=978&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjMkr674aHOAhUCJ5QKHXc0C00Q_AUIBigB#tbm= isch&q=SR-71) with the large engine nacelles built into the very thin wing and twin vertical stabilisers. The Wiki (http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Ramjet_(G1)/toys) says it's based off the F-16XL (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Dynamics_F-16XL) but I don't really see it.


I've always thought that Thrust was some kind of experimental (https://www.google.com.au/search?q=canard&biw=922&bih=978&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjMkr674aHOAhUCJ5QKHXc0C00Q_AUIBigB#tbm= isch&q=VTOL+AIRCRAFT)VTOL (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_VTOL_aircraft) but the massive pods on his wings housing the vertical fans would drastically reduce the effective lift generated by the wings in normal flight. It's why aircraft like the Harrier (https://www.google.com.au/search?q=canard&biw=922&bih=978&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjMkr674aHOAhUCJ5QKHXc0C00Q_AUIBigB#tbm= isch&q=HARRIER+THRUST+SYSTEM)and Lightening II (https://www.google.com.au/search?q=canard&biw=922&bih=978&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjMkr674aHOAhUCJ5QKHXc0C00Q_AUIBigB#tbm= isch&q=F-35+THRUST+SYSTEM) house their thrust generating systems in the main fuselage.
But, as mentioned if he's using the same science to fly in vehicle mode as he does in robot mode, the shape of his wings is probably irrelevant. :D

Dirge too, I always thought was some sort of experimental canard wing (https://www.google.com.au/search?q=canard&biw=922&bih=978&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjMkr674aHOAhUCJ5QKHXc0C00Q_AUIBigB#tbm= isch&q=canard+wing+aircraft) aircraft.


Anyway, there's my Tuesday arvo, should have been working, knowledge dump. hopefully someone finds it more interesting than boring. :D

[Akky82]

If we are going by the cartoon then that's the least of our problems, how do all the Decepticons and Dinobots fly in bot mode despite having no visible means of propulsion or lift.

Must be our yellow sun!


But seriously, when I get my new place i am going to make custom shelving with three spots to mount the coneheads in alt mode. Always loved dirge the most, cant wait (caught thrust preorder, if i miss dirge i'll be a big sad panda).

[gamblor916]

Uh, I beg to differ, obviously I'm not the first. :D

"wall of text"



That was an interesting read. The thing I most want to know is when PC pre-orders go up.

[Trent]

You could always paint over it if it bugs you that much. :o


It allows Dirge to achieve greater cartoon likeness. Ramjet didn't need them because the cartoon usually shrank his wings (https://media3.giphy.com/media/wJC8YwmGMtApa/200_s.gif) in robot mode. They only came up to his hip level, whereas the G1 mould's wings went straight up behind his armpits (http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/f/f1/G2_Ramjet_toy.jpg).

G1 cartoon Dirge's wings similarly shrink (http://fairplaythings.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/02-09-dirge2.jpg) and only come up to hip level. But unlike Ramjet, Dirge's wing tips have a distinctive set of additional smaller wings (which actually makes it impossible for Dirge to fly (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernoulli%27s_principle), but let's continue to suspend disbelief (http://i.imgur.com/2jsfax6.jpg) :p) which would be lost if Dirge were allowed to transform in the same way as Ramjet. But these ridiculously oversized wings cannot remain a single piece for the MPs, not only because of wanting to come down to hip level, but also because if the wings were attached to both the body and legs then it would further restrict leg poseability... although it looks already restricted as it is, I don't know how you could make MP Dirge execute dynamic leg movements like kicks etc. It's almost looks like he's wearing leg braces. Run, Forrest, run. :p


Yeah, but that has significantly large winglets which appear to be acting as vertical stabilisers. In fact...
"Winglets served double duty on Burt Rutan's canard pusher configuration VariEze and Long-EZ, acting as both a wingtip device and a vertical stabilizer. Several other derivatives of these and other similar aircraft use this design element." (source (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vertical_stabilizer))
But I don't know if such proportionately small winglets on Dirge's wings could effectively double as vertical stabilisers.

And to add to this discussion, I present the X-36:

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc88/Wrxus/1beed7e3f6aacbe3c1fbc24060e2c2d3.jpg
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc88/Wrxus/fda987a84722148963bc13ae3016215b.jpg

Just like Dirge it has no vertical stabilisers and also no winglets. It flew very well. Excellent stealth profile too ;)

[spiderken17]

That was an interesting read. The thing I most want to know is when PC pre-orders go up.

yes, that.

[GoktimusPrime]

Thanks for the lesson, UltraMarginal. It was most edumacational. :D


Must be our yellow sun!
The Sun is actually white (https://media.mnn.com/assets/images/2011/04/robotoverhorizon.jpg.638x0_q80_crop-smart.jpg). We just see it as yellow (or orange or red, depending on time of day) due to the way that the sun's light enters Earth's atmosphere. Man of Steel offered a variant explanation...
"Earth's sun is younger and brighter than Krypton's was. Your cells have drunken its radiation... strengthening your muscles, your skin, your senses.
Earth's gravity is weaker, yet its atmosphere is more nourishing. You've grown stronger here than I ever could have imagined."
- Jor-El

[UltraMarginal]

That was an interesting read. The thing I most want to know is when PC pre-orders go up.

thank you , and I totally agree!!


And to add to this discussion, I present the X-36:

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc88/Wrxus/1beed7e3f6aacbe3c1fbc24060e2c2d3.jpg
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc88/Wrxus/fda987a84722148963bc13ae3016215b.jpg

Just like Dirge it has no vertical stabilisers and also no winglets. It flew very well. Excellent stealth profile too ;)

That is a cool aircraft, thanks for pointing it out. The way they overcame the stability issues with split ailerons and thrust vectoring makes for one hella complex bit of kit.


Thanks for the lesson, UltraMarginal. It was most edumacational. :D


Your welcome:D:o

[spiderken17]

I dont come on this forum to learn! Shame on you. :D

[nsm034]

Nothing on Tomy mall yet so preorders might be a while off yet

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

I think when we start to see stock images, preorders shouldn't be too far away.

[drifand]

I think when we start to see stock images, preorders shouldn't be too far away.

Not surprisingly this before cheetor as well

[ampoldj]

Can they wait just alittle bit more my wallet is still hurting from Thrust and Skywarp...:p

Now just hoping for a Starscream reissue next year coz with all KOs now i wont dare risk my hard earned money :rolleyes:

[GoktimusPrime]

Now just hoping for a Starscream reissue next year coz with all KOs now i wont dare risk my hard earned money :rolleyes:
The recent TRU MP Starscream didn't tickle your fancy?

[ampoldj]

The recent TRU MP Starscream didn't tickle your fancy?

Because of the box :) i should have bought that and purchase a TT box from a member here and chucked it in there. Dont care about the coronation thing anyway ;)

[drifand]

Because of the box :) i should have bought that and purchase a TT box from a member here and chucked it in there. Dont care about the coronation thing anyway ;)

The hasbro one does not make the cut. Take my word for it as I have owned both.

And no this should not wait as I want them to move on from boredom seekers and look into making better decepticon choices. Yes wallets hurt, I rather get hurt now than wait forever for them to get this done and dusted. Imagine if they decided not to release this for another three years and you be really nuts.

Will not be surprised if TT come out hoist and trailbreaker just to kill the competition.

[Jazzman]

Will not be surprised if TT come out hoist and trailbreaker just to kill the competition.

We should start betting! :cool:

[Lord_Zed]

Errr what's worn with the Hasbro Starscream, all the video reviews I've watched basically pointed out they were more or less the same minus accessorizes.



they decided not to release this for another three years and you be really nuts.

Will not be surprised if TT come out hoist and trailbreaker just to kill the competition.

May as well be waiting for Hasbro Coneheads.

[micfox001]

The most important point is where to order it?

[drifand]

The most important point is where to order it?

Same as before, you can buy st PC refresh and hope you get it. Or TT mall or rk.

[GoktimusPrime]

Because of the box :) i should have bought that and purchase a TT box from a member here and chucked it in there. Dont care about the coronation thing anyway ;)
I'd be willing to purchase that coronation kit off you! That's the only thing in that set that remotely interests me, but I'm not going to purchase a new MP Starscream just for an accessory kit.

[Nevac]

I'd be willing to purchase that coronation kit off you! That's the only thing in that set that remotely interests me, but I'm not going to purchase a new MP Starscream just for an accessory kit.

Didn't a lot of people buy Soundblaster solely for Ratbat? I know I did still the kit is pretty neat for Starscream.

Makes me think of this ep but it's got a new hat!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaOgZwk9rN8

[drifand]

Didn't a lot of people buy Soundblaster solely for Ratbat? I know I did still the kit is pretty neat for Starscream.

Makes me think of this ep but it's got a new hat!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaOgZwk9rN8

Nope , in fact many turn to the dark side for ratbat.

[GoktimusPrime]

Didn't a lot of people buy Soundblaster solely for Ratbat? I know I did still the kit is pretty neat for Starscream.

Makes me think of this ep but it's got a new hat!
Pretty much, which is why I never bothered to get MP11 or MP13B. :p One cool thing about MP Soundwave is that he's compatible with the G1 cassettes anyway, so you can still insert your G1 Ratbat into your MP Soundwave's chest. Okay, it's not exactly the same as having an MP Ratbat, but I'm not going to splash out on an MP Soundblaster just for the privilege of having Ratbat. Similarly I'd really like to get that Marissa Faireborn figure that comes w/ MP Delta Magnus, but I'm not going to buy Delta Magnus just to get it.

About 15 years ago on the old #transformers IRC channel on austnet, there was a guy who came along and boasted about how he spent some ridiculous sum of money* on a G1 Metrotitan**. He kept on boasting about this acquisition and others questioned why he would pay such a large sum for what essentially a weird repaint of Metroplex. This guy then said that he was more interested in Metrobomb, the repaint of Skystalker. And I think it was Fungal Infection who then said, "So you paid $300 for a Micromaster?"
This guy had no comeback after that (and left the channel not too long after). :p ;)

So yeah, by this logic it'd be like paying $200+ for an MP Ratbat or $150 for a Coronation Kit. :rolleyes: No thanks.

--------------------------------------------------
*I think it was something like $300 or more... which isn't much cheaper than what it goes for now (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Takara-Transformers-G1-D340-Metrotitan-Zone-Metroplex-Body-parts-/162155135810), especially for early 00s aftermarket prices.
**Despite the fact that he actually $1000 in debt to another Transfan and was refusing to repay this debt :mad:

[BigTransformerTrev]

A Masterpiece of my first ever TF! :eek::D:eek:

Considering I liked MP Ramjet a lot more than I thought I would I'm totally grabbing Dirge! He will have an extra special pride of place in my collection
:)

[philby]

i'm interested to know if they took any feedback from ramjet on board regarding things like the jet nosecone just sitting there unsecure and stuff.

[Bidoofdude]

The headsculpt seems to work better on Dirge and Thrust than it does on Ramjet. Maybe the colours set it off.

[Megatran]

A Masterpiece of my first ever TF! :eek::D:eek:
Me too.

~~~~~~~~~~

I've always thought Dirge's missiles were thinner than that belonging to Ramjet. :confused:

[Krayt]

Me too.

~~~~~~~~~~

I've always thought Dirge's missiles were thinner than that belonging to Ramjet. :confused:

They were....

Thrust rocked as he had wings, tail wings, and the missiles and launchers of the original seekers. (I had Thrust YAY!!!)

Dirge had these tiny "pencil thin" sticks (Brother had Dirge... haha)

Ramjet had the big bulky bombs, and larger, cooler looking wings, but remained elusive and therefore sort after in our house.

[GoktimusPrime]

Me too.

~~~~~~~~~~

I've always thought Dirge's missiles were thinner than that belonging to Ramjet. :confused:
They are, but I think it's difficult to engineer that into the existing MP Seeker mould in order to cover up the existing default guns. The other option would be to have swappable guns, which I would've preferred, but they've evidently gone with the option of keeping Ramjet's cover-up guns (which are really boosters). But you're right, they are oversized for Dirge.

[philby]

...but they've evidently gone with the option of keeping Ramjet's cover-up guns (which are really boosters).

i thought they were cluster bombs.

[GoktimusPrime]

i thought they were cluster bombs.
I meant purely from a toy POV; if you never read the instructions or tech specs and thus didn't know any better, you'd swear that they were boosters or fuel tanks or something. Or maybe it's just me. Either way, they're too thick for Dirge's weapons.

[spiderken17]

Any idea when this is supposed to be released? There is alot of hype around Megatron but i would have thought this would be ip for pre-order by now. It annoys me when we hear nothing and then we find out its up 10 minutes before it happens ( if we're lucky).

[DELTAprime]

Still no word on when preorders will start. I'm eager also to get Dirge ordered, but nothing has been said about him in a long time.

[DaptoDog]

Any idea when this is supposed to be released? There is alot of hype around Megatron but i would have thought this would be ip for pre-order by now. It annoys me when we hear nothing and then we find out its up 10 minutes before it happens ( if we're lucky).

When I opened this I thought you may be reporting a pre order date lol. I would treat this the same way you treat a PC pre order. You know it's coming, it just might take a month or three longer to show up on your doorstep. :)

[Jazzman]

Still no word on when preorders will start. I'm eager also to get Dirge ordered, but nothing has been said about him in a long time.

Yes, makes me wonder what the thought process is behind release dates. Obviously Dirge was shown WAAAAY early to dull interest in 3rd party figures, but it seems like Megs will get his pre-order up before Dirge... and the Dirge pics weren't even a leak like Megs was! :confused:

[DELTAprime]

I tend to agree.^ My thinking is Megatron has been shown in a Japanese toy magazine but Dirge has only been seen at a Hasbro China event.

[drifand]

Ko for dirge is already ready lol
Not sure what's going on these days.

[Jazzman]

Ko for dirge is already ready lol
Not sure what's going on these days.

Far out... they don't waste any time!

[aching878]

http://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810842590/?mm161220tf

PO opens Dec 22 at Takmall, May 2017 release

[MayzaPrime]

http://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810842590/?mm161220tf

PO opens Dec 22 at Takmall, May 2017 release

Time to watch PC closely ;)

[aching878]

Time to watch PC closely ;)

Better start refreshing your browser tonight then as they listed

[laproblematique]

I'm not complaining but why is this guy cheaper than Ramjet and Thrust at $150? Isn't he an exclusive? I can never keep up with Takara.

[aching878]

I'm not complaining but why is this guy cheaper than Ramjet and Thrust at $150? Isn't he an exclusive? I can never keep up with Takara.

Takmall wise same price, MP-11NT was same 15984yen

[DaptoDog]

I'm not complaining but why is this guy cheaper than Ramjet and Thrust at $150? Isn't he an exclusive? I can never keep up with Takara.

That price is a steal. I'll be buying 2.

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

PC's preorders (http://www.premiumcollectables.com.au/products/takara-tomy-mp-11nd-dirge) open tonight at 8.30pm QLD time.

[spiderken17]

Is that the same as NSW time?

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

Is that the same as NSW time?

So 9.30pm for NSW.

http://www.worldtimeserver.com/current_time_in_AU-QLD.aspx

[Sinnertwin]

Is that the same as NSW time?


They're an hour behind NSW

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

PC's listing is live, lads and ladies:

http://www.premiumcollectables.com.au/products/takara-tomy-mp-11nd-dirge

[DaptoDog]

Got it. They jacked the price up to $159.95 but still a good deal.

[MayzaPrime]

Boom!!!! Ordered with Energon discount... $101 for Dirge, very happy!!!!

[DELTAprime]

Energon discount... $101 for Dirge, very happy!!!!

Yay, Dirge just put me over the 1000 points I need for my $65 discount. Next MP is going to feel like a steal!

[MayzaPrime]

Yay, Dirge just put me over the 1000 points I need for my $65 discount. Next MP is going to feel like a steal!

Could be anyone :p ;)

[Borgeman]

Was stuck dealing with something and i missed out... heres hoping more show

[1AZRAEL1]

I was saving my points for Dirge. Totally worth it

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

Was stuck dealing with something and i missed out... heres hoping more show

Still available, just checked.

[spiderken17]

Was stuck dealing with something and i missed out... heres hoping more show

yeah, its still working for me.


Yay, Dirge just put me over the 1000 points I need for my $65 discount. Next MP is going to feel like a steal!

Same, I am looking forward to the next MP :)

[MayzaPrime]

Was stuck dealing with something and i missed out... heres hoping more show

It still shows that its in stock

[Kranix]

Yay, Dirge just put me over the 1000 points I need for my $65 discount. Next MP is going to feel like a steal!

I'm about 50 points short of the 1000 dang it :)

[Borgeman]

Yeah i got one. It was showing as sold out on the payment page for about 5 mons but all g now.

Probably means i wong get it till next Christmas with how lfar in the queue i am :p

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

I'm about 50 points short of the 1000 dang it :)

You get 50 points if you share on Facebook or Twitter.

[ampoldj]

I hope they get more allocation but that would mean i may be waiting the whole year of 2017 :rolleyes:

[Kranix]

You get 50 points if you share on Facebook or Twitter.

Interesting, thanks for the tip, unfortunately i don't use those forms of social media.

[Ark-Ivor]

PC still shows Dirge as available, until you get to the shopify page, then it's just "inventory issues" (out of stock) every time I refresh, I had the same problem with Thrust and Ramjet. :(

[1AZRAEL1]

PC still shows Dirge as available, until you get to the shopify page, then it's just "inventory issues" (out of stock) every time I refresh, I had the same problem with Thrust and Ramjet. :(

They leave it up until the non payments are cancelled and the stock drops back into the preorder pool

[GoktimusPrime]

PC still shows Dirge as available, until you get to the shopify page, then it's just "inventory issues" (out of stock) every time I refresh, I had the same problem with Thrust and Ramjet. :(
Same prob here

[drifand]

Simply put you missed it. Look at alternatives rather than just hoping for some VIP not going to pay.

Rk, TT mall would be next few or bbts if you don't care about savings but good packaging.

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

Preorders up at:

Robot Kingdom -- US$150 (http://www.robotkingdom.com/tftrmp11nd.html).

Kapow Toys -- £150 (https://www.kapowtoys.co.uk/transformers-masterpiece-mp-11nd-dirge.html).

[drifand]

There is also no cancellation if ordered at TT mall so be very careful when ordering.

[DELTAprime]

You get 50 points if you share on Facebook or Twitter.

I had no idea. I'll do that in the future. Thanks!:D

[DELTAprime]

Same prob here

Well Gok, I guess you will have to use your friend in Japan and get it from TTM, lucky you.:p

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

I had no idea. I'll do that in the future. Thanks!:D

Yeah, it's a good way to get a few extra points to help you over the line!

http://i.imgur.com/ZPQX5HM.png

Everything is a one off though (so you can't keep on sharing on FB or Twitter), although I think referring a friend isn't limited, but i'm not sure about that.

[laproblematique]

Still waiting for Thrust from P.C and missed out on Ramjet - can somebody remind me if the three coneheads have the Hasbro Asia coins?

[aching878]

Still waiting for Thrust from P.C and missed out on Ramjet - can somebody remind me if the three coneheads have the Hasbro Asia coins?

None of the conehead has coins

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

Preorder up at BBTS (http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=TAK12446&mode=retail) -- US$170.

[GoktimusPrime]

Well Gok, I guess you will have to use your friend in Japan and get it from TTM, lucky you.:p
That's precisely what I've decided to do. Already messaged my friend last night. ;) (and yes, I'm going to ask for trackable postage this time :p) I want to give PC my business, and I've repeatedly played the refresh and re-order game, but it keeps coming up as sold out. Yeah, I'm just gonna go straight to the source. :o I got my MP Ramjet and Thrust from PC and was more than willing to do the same for Dirge, but oh well. First world probs. :p

[philby]

i didn't realise this was going up so missed out from PC, everywhere else is quite a bit more expensive :/

[Megatran]

i didn't realise this was going up so missed out from PC, everywhere else is quite a bit more expensive :/
Supposedly they put up some more units this arvo due to cancelled orders.

[GoktimusPrime]

I just pre-ordered one 2 minutes ago (and cancelled my TakaraTOMY Mall preorder) :o

[MayzaPrime]

I just pre-ordered one 2 minutes ago (and cancelled my TakaraTOMY Mall preorder) :o

Nice! You might be lucky if you get it for Christmas next year :D:p;)

[philby]

argh i didn't notice and missed out again, by 9 minutes apparently lol

[GoktimusPrime]

Nice! You might be lucky if you get it for Christmas next year :D:p;)
Pretty much. :o MP Dirge is a toy that I'm not in a massive hurry to get per se... I just want to complete my MP Seekers. Come to think of it... Dirge has always been my last Seeker. He was my last G1 Seeker - didn't get him until the late 90s when a mate of mine gave it away to me. For CHUGUR I didn't get any of the BotCon Seekers but I did get Gentei Thundercracker and Thrust, but missed out on Gentei Dirge - only finally managed to get a CHUGUR Dirge when Hasbro released it as a regular mass market figure. So yeah, Dirge always seems to have eluded me. :o

[drifand]

I just pre-ordered one 2 minutes ago (and cancelled my TakaraTOMY Mall preorder) :o

TT mall indicated no cancellation for this item .

This product can not be canceled after your order. Click here for details

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

argh i didn't notice and missed out again, by 9 minutes apparently lol

Still shows available for me.

[BigTransformerTrev]

Pre-orders up at BBTS

Dirge looks friggin beautiful! My first ever Transformer will be my last MP Seeker.

I agree with Gok, his weapons look to chunky for him. He should just have his machine guns. But still, Inferno and now Dirge - all my G1 toy favs are getting the Masterpiece treatment :D

[philby]

Still shows available for me.

i could add it to cart but not checkout. i tried again a little while ago and it went through however :)

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

i could add it to cart but not checkout. i tried again a little while ago and it went through however :)

Yeah, at the time of my post they allowed me to checkout. Either way, glad you got one! :)

[Sinnertwin]

Pre-orders up at BBTS

Dirge looks friggin beautiful! My first ever Transformer will be my last MP Seeker.

I agree with Gok, his weapons look to chunky for him. He should just have his machine guns. But still, Inferno and now Dirge - all my G1 toy favs are getting the Masterpiece treatment :D

They're just covers like Ramjet :) he still has his slender seeker rays (http://tformers.com/masterpiece-dirge-mp-11nd-stock-photos-and-release-info-for-final-masterpiece-conehead/30599/news.html)
except you can see them sitting behind his shoulders :rolleyes:

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

Preorder up at Anime Export (http://www.anime-export.com/product/34454) -- 18,780 yen.

[drifand]

Preorder up at Anime Export (http://www.anime-export.com/product/34454) -- 18,780 yen.

Ouch, I would think order directly from TT would be better. And that's including service.

[1AZRAEL1]

They're just covers like Ramjet :) he still has his slender seeker rays (http://tformers.com/masterpiece-dirge-mp-11nd-stock-photos-and-release-info-for-final-masterpiece-conehead/30599/news.html)
except you can see them sitting behind his shoulders :rolleyes:

As with Ramjet, you don't have to display them behind his shoulders ;)

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

Ouch, I would think order directly from TT would be better. And that's including service.

I definitely agree! But it's already sold out, so some are definitely willing to pay the markup!

[Bumbleb33]

Managed to get a pre-order in last night with PC.

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

Some in-hands (https://www.facebook.com/DaimChocReports/posts/386171638399936):

http://i.imgur.com/XxgqfBt.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/FltkVqH.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/OrxdFoP.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/YMrJ2tu.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/WXY52OP.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/aWrK3OW.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/IryISCO.jpg

[Sinnertwin]

As with Ramjet, you don't have to display them behind his shoulders ;)

for sure, but they still look lame there :p


And, my, oh, my... those third party versions look like utter garbage

[hYpNoS]

for sure, but they still look lame there :p


And, my, oh, my... those third party versions look like utter garbage

Gotta give the "yes model" some credit, since its basically a straight up mp11 with new wings, yes the head is ugly.

What you don't see is they got smart and snuck in a knock off ramjet styled head with each variation, most people just throw on the "stock" head just so it stands out

[GoktimusPrime]

You're giving them credit because their toy is a partial counterfeit as well as a knock off? :confused: :rolleyes:

[Megatran]

Still no firm release date? .... Other than late May.

[BigTransformerTrev]

I'm so looking forward to this figure - think it will be my fav MP of the year!

Actually come to think of it, have there been any other G1 MP figures announced for 2017? I haven't seen any announcements. I'm quite surprised they haven't done Jazz yet

[Jazzman]

I'm so looking forward to this figure - think it will be my fav MP of the year!

Actually come to think of it, have there been any other G1 MP figures announced for 2017? I haven't seen any announcements. I'm quite surprised they haven't done Jazz yet

Yeah, fingers crossed for Jazz... gotta compete with the 3rd Party companies! :cool:

[1AZRAEL1]

I'm so looking forward to this figure - think it will be my fav MP of the year!

Actually come to think of it, have there been any other G1 MP figures announced for 2017? I haven't seen any announcements. I'm quite surprised they haven't done Jazz yet

You're right. Aside from Megatron and Artfire and Dirge, there isn't any other G1 MP for this year that they've announced

[Borgeman]

You got Artfire, he technically counts :p

[drifand]

Mp-Megatron in chrome. oups...lol

[DELTAprime]

Yeah, fingers crossed for Jazz... gotta compete with the 3rd Party companies! :cool:

I bet the reason we don't have him yet is Porsche hasn't agreed to terms.

[ZoonMaster5000]

I bet the reason we don't have him yet is Porsche hasn't agreed to terms.

Well if they can get licensing from Porsche that would pretty much guarantee an mp cliffjumper too!

[Jazzman]

I bet the reason we don't have him yet is Porsche hasn't agreed to terms.

I thought they were owned by VW??? We can get Bumblebee, but no love for Jazz??? haha :confused:

[Jetfire in the sky]

I thought they were owned by VW??? We can get Bumblebee, but no love for Jazz??? haha :confused:


Well played Jazzman :)

You're spot on!

[Jazzman]

Well played Jazzman :)

You're spot on!

My money is actually on an announcement for MP Jazz this year... there'll be a lot of happy campers! :D

[Civic Bossman]

Maybe Takara should do what all the 3rd Parties do and make it anyway 😉

[Jazzman]

Maybe Takara should do what all the 3rd Parties do and make it anyway 😉

Haha, seriously though, I think it's really cool to see the official logos. Although TakTom is changing to toon accuracy, right?... the way they're headed you almost wouldn't need the licensing! :rolleyes:

[Trent]

I thought they were owned by VW??? We can get Bumblebee, but no love for Jazz??? haha :confused:

Different companies. Do you really think VW are going to order Porche to issue a license to Takara to keep a few fanboys happy?

And also even if they get one model of Porche (Jazz) doesn't mean another is sure to follow (Cliffjumper). Where's Sunstreaker? Shouldn't he have been straight after Sideswipe?

Car licenses can be issued under wildly different terms. Some car companies will throw a license at anyone, others will be very selective and want to have a say in every single aspect of the toy. So what happens with one cannot be applied to others.

[Borgeman]

Different companies. Do you really think VW are going to order Porche to issue a license to Takara to keep a few fanboys happy?

And also even if they get one model of Porche (Jazz) doesn't mean another is sure to follow (Cliffjumper). Where's Sunstreaker? Shouldn't he have been straight after Sideswipe?

Car licenses can be issued under wildly different terms. Some car companies will throw a license at anyone, others will be very selective and want to have a say in every single aspect of the toy. So what happens with one cannot be applied to others.


Yep I've heard that the hurdle for sunstreaker is that the bonnet splits in two to form his feet, and Lambo apparently are against that (i assume the splitting of the bonnet)

[FatalityPitt]

Yep I've heard that the hurdle for sunstreaker is that the bonnet splits in two to form his feet, and Lambo apparently are against that (i assume the splitting of the bonnet)


Yeah, I find that very strange. I wonder what the logic is. Could it be that Lamborghini reckons that if the bonnet splits, it would make the car look ugly?

[Lord_Zed]

Ah the MP speculating, speculating in stock or property is safer.

Among the others you mention, I'm still waiting for MP Hound who one would think would be easy to get a license for, or how about MP Blaster, or Kup? Taktom wouldn't even need a license for them.

Seems like there's no rhyme or reason to when and who they release.

[Borgeman]

Yeah, I find that very strange. I wonder what the logic is. Could it be that Lamborghini reckons that if the bonnet splits, it would make the car look ugly?

The only thing I can think of is that it would involve splitting their badge in half.

[Ralph Wiggum]

Ah the MP speculating, speculating in stock or property is safer.

Among the others you mention, I'm still waiting for MP Hound who one would think would be easy to get a license for, or how about MP Blaster, or Kup? Taktom wouldn't even need a license for them.

Seems like there's no rhyme or reason to when and who they release.

Oh there's a rhyme and reason alright. With the exception of a very, very few cases, TT's releases are based on which molds they can absolutely milk with various recolours, redecos, remolds, etc.

Hence why we get the Fuso truck line (Inferno, Grapple, etc.) over more of the original arc crew. It's all about the $$$$$& ;)

[drifand]

the licensing speculation is all obtainable even a $5 Kmart diecast pull back toy can obtain it, you name it, Audi, Porsche, Lamborghini, ford all done. The mor seriously factors are just making the toys with the set of designers they have employed and keeping it within their budget.

Hound is obviously breaking the scale rules so this is why they are reluctant.
Mirage too many licensed labels hence leaving it for later. Jazz, I am afraid is either licensing labels or they deciding whether to make it a plus version.

Very likely you get hoist or trailbreaker as is by Toyota.

Or you see more mp beastwars

Springer, kup, blurr should be the easy kill but they are thinking of remould firsts.

[Tober]

I heard the problem with Sunstreaker was getting a license for the body kit. That wouldn't be owned by Lamborghini.

TFW2005, and TFwiki member Nevermore asked Porsche directly why they don't want to license to transforming toys, the answer was that basically thwy saw it as below their standards.

Mold reuse is an imortant factor, but we are yet to see Jaguar, Ratbat, Lasetwave or Star Saber repaints.

[drifand]

I heard the problem with Sunstreaker was getting a license for the body kit. That wouldn't be owned by Lamborghini.

TFW2005, and TFwiki member Nevermore asked Porsche directly why they don't want to license to transforming toys, the answer was that basically thwy saw it as below their standards.

Mold reuse is an imortant factor, but we are yet to see Jaguar, Ratbat, Lasetwave or Star Saber repaints.

cant blame Porsche, the TT masterpiece line looks cheap, material used and paint finishing probably didn't impressed them.

Starsaber on the other hand was banging on that its a popular character in Asia and they would sell enough without needing repaints. They are sure taking their sweet time to do black ironhide or the green one to buy time making new designs.

So if Jazz is stuck, I be wondering which 3P is so called the best .

[Ralph Wiggum]

I heard the problem with Sunstreaker was getting a license for the body kit. That wouldn't be owned by Lamborghini.

TFW2005, and TFwiki member Nevermore asked Porsche directly why they don't want to license to transforming toys, the answer was that basically thwy saw it as below their standards.

Mold reuse is an imortant factor, but we are yet to see Jaguar, Ratbat, Lasetwave or Star Saber repaints.

Porsche standards huh *cough* cookie stamps *cough*

http://shop2.porsche.com/australia/specials/rs/ :D

[Jazzman]

Porsche standards huh *cough* cookie stamps *cough*

http://shop2.porsche.com/australia/specials/rs/ :D

Merchandising... where the real money from the automotive trade is made! lol :D

[DELTAprime]

Porsche standards huh *cough* cookie stamps *cough*

http://shop2.porsche.com/australia/specials/rs/ :D

Look at the prices on those items. Porsche is notorious for demanding top dollar. I'm saying that I bet the expense is why we still don't have Jazz.

EA had a rather expensive and "exclusive" license to the Porsche brand that they have now decided to drop, but you don't see a bunch of games now included licensed Porsches in their racing games. Only company over the years that has agreed to EA and Porsches terms to included Porsches in their games is Microsoft with the Forza series and they have to charge $20 to $30 for a Porsche Expansion for each game that includes Porsche cars because the license is so expensive.

The auto industry is also very hung up on details. For instance there were many years where if the car was damaged (ie: collision damage in games or battle damage on a toy) you would be refused a license. Also I'm not sure why but I know Chevy now gets upset if licensees put an SS sticker on the bodywork of the car like the Camaro that had an SS version, even tho it is historically accurate.

[Jazzman]

Look at the prices on those items. Porsche is notorious for demanding top dollar. I'm saying that I bet the expense is why we still don't have Jazz.

EA had a rather expensive and "exclusive" license to the Porsche brand that they have now decided to drop, but you don't see a bunch of games now included licensed Porsches in their racing games. Only company over the years that has agreed to EA and Porsches terms to included Porsches in their games is Microsoft with the Forza series and they have to charge $20 to $30 for a Porsche Expansion for each game that includes Porsche cars because the license is so expensive.

The auto industry is also very hung up on details. For instance there were many years where if the car was damaged (ie: collision damage in games or battle damage on a toy) you would be refused a license. Also I'm not sure why but I know Chevy now gets upset if licensees put an SS sticker on the bodywork of the car like the Camaro that had an SS version, even tho it is historically accurate.

Hmmm... Jazz - the MP TF that only cork sniffers can afford! :p

[GoktimusPrime]

But Porsche allowed MP Bumblebee and that didn't cost an arm and a leg.

[Trent]

But Porsche allowed MP Bumblebee and that didn't cost an arm and a leg.

No they didn't. VW issued the license for Bumblebee. VW owns Porsche. Not the other way around.

[Ralph Wiggum]

VW probably needed a boost in the coffers in anticipation of the emissions scandal:D

[Megatran]

Poor Dirge. Finally gets allocated a Masterpiece figure and a dedicated thread here yet has to stomach discussion on potential licensing problems of unconfirmed G1 Masterpiece figures. Poor Dirge.

"Death comes to he who crosses me." :D

[griffin]

Poor Dirge. Finally gets allocated a Masterpiece figure and a dedicated thread here yet has to stomach discussion on potential licensing problems of unconfirmed G1 Masterpiece figures. Poor Dirge.

"Death comes to he who crosses me." :D

Well... I was going to move those recent posts, but now if I do, your post won't make any sense... :p

['07Camaro]

I'm so looking forward to this figure - think it will be my fav MP of the year!

Actually come to think of it, have there been any other G1 MP figures announced for 2017? I haven't seen any announcements. I'm quite surprised they haven't done Jazz yet

The only masterpiece figures I know so far were Grapple, Cheetor, Megatron 2.0, Artfire, that Optimus Primal repaint and this one. Not really too much now, but I reckon they might announce some in the coming months. I, too, am also surpirsed that there is no official MP Jazz yet. Although, now that you've mentioned it, it may not be that far off.

[DELTAprime]

But Porsche allowed MP Bumblebee and that didn't cost an arm and a leg.


No they didn't. VW issued the license for Bumblebee. VW owns Porsche. Not the other way around.

And each subsidiary company within the Volkswagen corporation handles their own licensing. You don't ask Volkswagen for a licence to Lamborghini, Bugatti, Porsche or Audi, you ask the specific subsidiary.

[1AZRAEL1]

Let's bring this thread back on track.

Dirge Dirge Dirge Dirge!!!!

There we go

[GoktimusPrime]

No they didn't. VW issued the license for Bumblebee. VW owns Porsche. Not the other way around.
I sit corrected.

Let's bring this thread back on track.

Dirge Dirge Dirge Dirge!!!!

There we go
Old English dirge! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjlxzXO1L1M) :p

[Lord_Zed]

The problem with these 6 month release cycles, is it's really easy to go of topic in the 6 months between announcement, preorder and release.

Either that or the thread goes quiet.

[Jazzman]

The problem with these 6 month release cycles, is it's really easy to go of topic in the 6 months between announcement, preorder and release.

Either that or the thread goes quiet.

lol true... ok, a more on-topic question - is there other, obscure G1 characters that use any of the Conehead body molds? i.e should we expect other colour variations of any of the Dirge, Thrust, or Dirge molds? :confused:

[GoktimusPrime]

Only nameless generic Coneheads.
http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/6/60/G1_generic_conehead.jpg
http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/6/64/ConeheadSeekerConcept.jpg

Although Sunstorm and Acidstorm were just generic cons until they were given personas, so... ;)

[Civic Bossman]

lol true... ok, a more on-topic question - is there other, obscure G1 characters that use any of the Conehead body molds? i.e should we expect other colour variations of any of the Dirge, Thrust, or Dirge molds? :confused:

G2 Ramjet

Or any of the above would be cool :)

[GoktimusPrime]

G2 Ramjet
Good call. :) This would be far more probable than any of the generics.

[Jazzman]

Only nameless generic Coneheads.
http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/6/60/G1_generic_conehead.jpg
http://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/6/64/ConeheadSeekerConcept.jpg

Although Sunstorm and Acidstorm were just generic cons until they were given personas, so... ;)

By that token Sunstorm's mates still haven't been released as MP11 repaints yet... Nacelle, Hotlink, and Bitstream.

[MayzaPrime]

G2 Ramjet and Starscream would be awesome!!!

[1AZRAEL1]

G2 Ramjet and Starscream would be awesome!!!

I'd buy em. And Actionmaster Thundercracker colours

[Borgeman]

By that token Sunstorm's mates still haven't been released as MP11 repaints yet... Nacelle, Hotlink, and Bitstream.

Neither have Acid Storm's mate (Ion and Nova) - though I reckon taking the Hasbro Thundercracker and Sunstorm toys and rechristening them Ion Stom and Nova Storm will do me just fine :p

[Jellico]

I am curious as to if they would ever do a Slipstream. Okay she is not G1 but they do random Diaclones, Seekers are the definition of generic, she could easily turn up in G1 IDW, I reckon a feminised mold is easier than the Coneheads, and adds more fembots to the MP line.

[1AZRAEL1]

If they do a proper Slipstream, I'd buy it

[BigTransformerTrev]

If they do a proper Slipstream, I'd buy it

As would I :)

As far as I'm concerned the 9 main Seekers are the 3 from 84', the Coneheads from 85', and then Sunstorm, Acid Storm and Slipstream. All the others are too obscure for me to worry about. But then go back 10 years and so was Acid Storm I guess :rolleyes:

If they made a Slipstream to follow my highly anticipated Dirge I would be a damn happy camper and could consider the MP Seeker line complete :)

[ampoldj]

Still no firm release date? .... Other than late May.

TT Mall has added the actual release date 27th of May

http://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g4904810842590/

[Megatran]

^ Thanks. :)

I'm late to the party & probably already mentioned but the missiles sitting behind Dirge's shoulder is a bad look. From the pics, the missiles can be taken off yet they chose to leave it on in bot mode for the artwork packaging, which appears more prominent than say Ramjet's packaging.

[griffin]

I've also added the exact date to the monthly JP/Asian release listing in the News section.

[hYpNoS]

^ Thanks. :)

I'm late to the party & probably already mentioned but the missiles sitting behind Dirge's shoulder is a bad look. From the pics, the missiles can be taken off yet they chose to leave it on in bot mode for the artwork packaging, which appears more prominent than say Ramjet's packaging.

Its more or less saying "you can leave everything on the robot", I'll be trying to use those in place of the nullrays because that's how I like my coneheads :D

[aching878]

Takmall just email all their customers

------------------------
弊社新製品「MP11NDダージ」を、5月27日発売と
当初予定をしておりましたが、製造の最終工程におきまして、
急遽不都合が生じてしまっております。

このたび、残念ではございますが、
発売日を延期させていただくこととなりました。

発売日につきましては、6月下旬を予定しております。
-----------------------

In short Dirge is delayed from May 27 to Late June due to production matters.

[drifand]

Takmall just email all their customers

------------------------
弊社新製品「MP11NDダージ」を、5月27日発売と
当初予定をしておりましたが、製造の最終工程におきまして、
急遽不都合が生じてしまっております。

このたび、残念ではございますが、
発売日を延期させていただくこととなりました。

発売日につきましては、6月下旬を予定しております。
-----------------------

In short Dirge is delayed from May 27 to Late June due to production matters.


Its been a long time since TT got delays.

[Ralph Wiggum]

Whew, my wallet can breathe a sigh of relief :D

[philby]

hopefully this means no issues like ramjet and thrust!

[drifand]

Whew, my wallet can breathe a sigh of relief :D

thought that would be PC going whew we can use this as the new update,

[ampoldj]

thought that would be PC going whew we can use this as the new update,

One less stress for us atm.

[griffin]

Its been a long time since TT got delays.

This is indeed a significant delay, but not "a long time since" the last one.
MP Cheetor was delayed a month from January to February.
The MP Reissues at the end of April were all delayed by 5 days, while the Anniversary Movie toys in March were all delayed by 8 days.

It actually seems like quite a few of the TTs toys get delayed, as all of May's items are delayed, with MP Artfire delayed 17 days and Godbomber delayed 7 days. (Artfire might only be 7 days though, as the original date of May 9th was probably meant to be 19th... but it is still a delay)

Plus, MP-38 Primal, Trypticon, Sharktron, Hotrodimus and Char/Kup have also been delayed a week from their original release date.

[Megatran]

I wouldn't put too much emphasis on the delay due to 'production matters'.

If I was a betting person, which I'm not, I think they didn't want to release MP Dirge in late May & have to compete with the unwarranted super-saturated media attention of Schapelle Corby heading back to Australia in that same period. It's a real pity for MP Artfire & LG Godbomber. They deserve their time in the sun.

[aching878]

hmm seems like the delay may only apply to Takmall domestic japan stock only, there's been reports of customers ordering from Asia outside of japan getting their shipping notices for MP-Dirge (Hasbro Asia stocks?)

[Stug]

Delay? This just got curious... I just received my shipping notice from RK for Dirge. :confused:

[aching878]

Delay? This just got curious... I just received my shipping notice from RK for Dirge. :confused:

ye takara mall sent out a notice few weeks back saying it is delayed, but i guess it turns out only JP stock is delayed

[DaptoDog]

Delay? This just got curious... I just received my shipping notice from RK for Dirge. :confused:

Same here!

So the avalanche of orders due in May will actually happen for me. I've got two orders due to arrive next week from NY plus this one and already received Megatron from Ami Ami. But alas none from the store that shall not be named that made the audacious claim.

[Initial_G]

Delay? This just got curious... I just received my shipping notice from RK for Dirge. :confused:

Read somewhere that it was just TT mall stock was delayed, other Asia releases weren't affected o_O ... guess this is true

Now I wonder when I'll get mine from PC ... considering others are waiting for Ramjet/Thrust still and who know if their supplier is from China or Japan

[Darkness]

Shipping notice for my mp11nd
#RKdelivers

[KaRNiV8L PRiME]

Shipping notice for my mp11nd
#robotkingdomdelivers

Same!!!!

[Darkness]

Yeah!
*fist bump*