The Energon Pub

Hello, folks!

I've been looking around lately for a Masterpiece Optimus Prime to buy and I've once again am seeking some advice from the wealth of experience here amongst my fellow Seibertronians. I'd like to ask those of you who own any of the versions of the MP Optimus Prime/Convoy figure to offer your own experience with your figure. The good points and the bad. I'll detail my understanding of the different versions below so please feel free to jump in and correct me if I'm wrong about something. I'd like to be as educated as possible on the pros and cons of the different versions of the figure before committing to a purchase.

So thanks for any help you folks can offer and here we go!

Now my main concern is the reported quality control issues of the TakaraTomy re-issue of the Ultra Magnus/MP-02 repaint as well as the MP-04 Convoy Perfect Edition.

At this time, my ideal version would be MP-01, the original version of the MP OPs. However, it's only available on the aftermarket at normally high prices.

While I would like a trailer, it's not an immediate requirement, and with MP-04's supposed QC issues, I don't know if I want to risk unnecessary frustration.

I don't mind shorter smoke stacks because I can look into getting the longer smoke stack kit. So I'm actually open to getting one of the 20th Anniversary editions.

The 20th Anniversary Optimus Prime from Hasbro looks like a good choice for me. Despite the "battle damage" paint and short smoke stacks, it appears to be the same as MP-01 and the bonus is that it could have a black ion blaster but I don't mind a grey one.

The 20th Anniversary DVD edition actually appeals to me because of its colour scheme. I know, call me crazy but I like the more cartoony look as much as I like the more accurate darker colour scheme of the other versions. I wouldn't mind getting this version but the big negative point for me is that it has a blue ion blaster. However, it can be easily fixed by paint. I understand that this version has recorded vocals but Peter Cullen doesn't provide the voice, which sucks.

So, am I on the right track or did I get any of the details wrong? Is there a version of the figure that I should definitely stay away from?

Thanks again for your help!

I have MP-02, MP-04, 20th Anniversary Edition, and the DVD Edition. I started out with the DVD edition, which of the four I own actually has the tightest transformation. The slightly orange color really isn't all that noticeable unless it's right beside one of the other versions. He has the short stacks, no chrome, and lacks some of the silver paint apps the others do. Then I found a good deal on the 20th edition so I picked him up. I'm not a big fan of the battle damage paint apps, but they aren't that bad. Again you get short stacks, but this time you get chrome, and a few more silver paint apps. I purchased some third party full length stacks and the bestoys non-transforming trailer for mine. He of course has the deeper red color and if memory serves a black gun. Next I upgraded to MP-04, my personal favorite of the ones I own. He of course comes with the transforming trailer, has full length stacks, chrome, and the deep red color minus the battle damage. In alt mode mine does have a little missalignment in the windshield/chest area, but it's acceptable. I added a third party roller and gas nozzle/hose to mine. Lastly I acquired MP-02 during the last reissue. This guy had the most QC issues poorly aligned chest, headlights glued in upside down, and I had to completely disassemble one leg and work it over to get it to retract for alt mode. I believe you can still pick up MP-04 for a reasonable price, BBTS has him on pre-order for $199.00. Personally I would go with MP-04, but if you just really don't want the trailer the 20th and DVD editions are both good. If you go with one of versions with short stacks I would recommend getting the full length stacks. It really helps the alt mode and they are easy to install.

Order MP-04 from BBTS for $199 from BBTS. If it's not to your liking you can exchange it for another or return it...the beauty of BBTS!

I had the Hasbro DVD version and after getting MP-04 I had a whole new appreciation for MP Prime. And I'm able to keep the Hasbro one in truck mode with the trailer...not as sharp as the Takara version, but it has a little use anyhow.

I have MP-01, the American version of it (20th Anniversary), and the 20th Movie Anniversary (still in package). I like the MP-01 the best though the American version comes oftly close 2nd. I hate the 20th Movie Anniversary which is why I never opened it.
If I were you and had about $200, I'd get a Japanese version with a trailer. I don't have a transforming trailer and sometimes feel like I missed out.

Thanks for all the great info!

I think that no matter which version I get of OP, I'm going to be happy. It's a great figure regardless of version. I am leery of the re-issue of MP-02, though.

If I can find a good deal, I'm probably going for one of the 20th Anniversery versions. I watched a video of someone replacing their short stacks on a 20th Anniversary OP and it looked really simple. The 3rd party stacks are affordable too.

The MP-04 from BBTS looks good too, considering the price is for the figure and the trailer. It's definitely reasonable when compared to what many places are pricing the same figure/trailer for.

I own MP-01 ver.1. Do I have complaints? Well the chipping is the primary and the loose right shoulder (Convoy's left shoulder from my perspective)and the cr@ppy Megatron (materials used not the design mind you) gun.

Overall, I like the boxed presentation, reminded me of a Johnny Walker Premium whisky box, the spelling error "More than Meets teh Eye",the card board "trailer" and the instruction manual cum history review.........and of course the normal long smokestacks. This boy really took my breathe away on Christmas Eve of 2004.

fenrir72 wrote:Overall, I like the boxed presentation, reminded me of a Johnny Walker Premium whisky box....

amen.... aint nothing like a good box of blue label

"More than Meets teh Eye", hehe, classic!

I think my ideal set up would be, if I had the money, to have the DVD Edition of OP for display and occassional play and have MP-01 or 04 MISB. I don't know, the more I look at the DVD Edition figure, the more I like it. I'm a big G1 fan, I'm fairly biased for show accuracy but the more cartoony, yet not cartoon accurate, figure is looking nifty to me.

Convotron wrote:Now my main concern is the reported quality control issues of the TakaraTomy re-issue of the Ultra Magnus/MP-02 repaint as well as the MP-04 Convoy Perfect Edition.

Just got my MP 04 today! When unboxed, absolutely no QC errors/issues. It's flawless, except for his right windo panel is alittle loose. But once locked in it's fine. But remember it's one figure, I don't know about others.

Convotron wrote:At this time, my ideal version would be MP-01, the original version of the MP OPs. However, it's only available on the aftermarket at normally high prices.

Yea, if you're trying to save money it's best you wait on MP 01 and 04. If you want a Takara Masterpiece edition, you're better off with Magnus. He's on Amazon for $94 dollars now. Here's a link:
http://www.amazon.com/Transformers-Takara-Masterpiece-Collection-Magnus/dp/B001FSJV5Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=toys-and-games&qid=1252012059&sr=8-1

Convotron wrote:While I would like a trailer, it's not an immediate requirement, and with MP-04's supposed QC issues, I don't know if I want to risk unnecessary frustration.

I'll just reenforce my previous statements. No noticable QC problems. But the price is the deciding factor.

Convotron wrote:I don't mind shorter smoke stacks because I can look into getting the longer smoke stack kit. So I'm actually open to getting one of the 20th Anniversary editions.

That's a good idea. If you want the actual figure, and don't mind a slightly stripped down and less detailed version of him, that's your best bet. Although even the Hasbro edition is going pricey now.

Convotron wrote:The 20th Anniversary Optimus Prime from Hasbro looks like a good choice for me. Despite the "battle damage" paint and short smoke stacks, it appears to be the same as MP-01 and the bonus is that it could have a black ion blaster but I don't mind a grey one.

That's Takara's that uses scorch marks. Hasbro's is clean.

Convotron wrote:The 20th Anniversary DVD edition actually appeals to me because of its colour scheme. I know, call me crazy but I like the more cartoony look as much as I like the more accurate darker colour scheme of the other versions. I wouldn't mind getting this version but the big negative point for me is that it has a blue ion blaster. However, it can be easily fixed by paint. I understand that this version has recorded vocals but Peter Cullen doesn't provide the voice, which sucks.

No, I lost my base plate and I could care less. The phrases are very off sounding.

Convotron wrote:So, am I on the right track or did I get any of the details wrong? Is there a version of the figure that I should definitely stay away from?

Thanks again for your help!

No, every version is great. Even the Hasbro one is very cool looking. Both Black Prime and Ultra Magnus will share the MP 01 version mold, and can be found in the mid 100s range (plus however much tax/importing cost Canada has.) If you want the red/blue original Optimus Prime figure, and you're on a budget buy Hasbro's 20th ann. figure. If you want the Masterpiece, your best bet is MP 04 since he's about $200 dollars cheaper than what MP 01's going for now and includes a trailer. I can't guarantee yours will be QC free like mine, however. It's hit and miss on that one. That's about your options, do yourself a favor and don't pass this guy up.

@ Rastamus, you do mean the Takara version is clean. Hasbro MP hsa the scorch marks/battle damage.

MP-04 would have been perfect had it had the d@mn Roller component.

@ Convotron, not heard much on the mold but the most realistic would be the second MP-01 run (if you're after the price, if for the oomph, well MP-04 is the way to go)

I've had MP-01 since its original launch forever ago and I have adored it ever since. I always wanted MP-04, there was a time right before it was released where people were offering like 119$ for the next box and trailer in which you could place your existing MP-01. I should have taken them up on it.

If it wasn't for the QC issues in MP-04 I might go down the Re-issue road and just get that one as it has everything I currently have and more. But then again a part of me likes knowing I have the original MP-01 from the first shipment. An "I was there" type of feeling I suppose you could say. That fact alone will probably prevent me from ever selling him, even if I can turn the money right around and pick up the trailer for free.

Wow, great points all around. Thanks so much for the help! It really has cleared the confusion I had about the various versions of the figure. It's so cool...

fenrir72 wrote:@ Rastamus, you do mean the Takara version is clean. Hasbro MP hsa the scorch marks/battle damage.

MP-04 would have been perfect had it had the d@mn Roller component.

@ Convotron, not heard much on the mold but the most realistic would be the second MP-01 run (if you're after the price, if for the oomph, well MP-04 is the way to go)

No...... Hasbro's is clean. Takara's DOES use scorch marks. AS for the roller, I really don't care about him. You barely ever see him in the cartoon anyway. I'm glad they put in the repair drone.

My MP-01 has no scorch marks aka Takara japanese Convoy, but if you insist.............

Rastamus Prime wrote:

fenrir72 wrote:@ Rastamus, you do mean the Takara version is clean. Hasbro MP hsa the scorch marks/battle damage.

MP-04 would have been perfect had it had the d@mn Roller component.

@ Convotron, not heard much on the mold but the most realistic would be the second MP-01 run (if you're after the price, if for the oomph, well MP-04 is the way to go)

No...... Hasbro's is clean. Takara's DOES use scorch marks. AS for the roller, I really don't care about him. You barely ever see him in the cartoon anyway. I'm glad they put in the repair drone.

Dude, Hasbro's always had the battle damage/scorch marks. Takara's have always been clean.

Burn wrote:

Rastamus Prime wrote:

fenrir72 wrote:@ Rastamus, you do mean the Takara version is clean. Hasbro MP hsa the scorch marks/battle damage.

MP-04 would have been perfect had it had the d@mn Roller component.

@ Convotron, not heard much on the mold but the most realistic would be the second MP-01 run (if you're after the price, if for the oomph, well MP-04 is the way to go)

No...... Hasbro's is clean. Takara's DOES use scorch marks. AS for the roller, I really don't care about him. You barely ever see him in the cartoon anyway. I'm glad they put in the repair drone.

Dude, Hasbro's always had the battle damage/scorch marks. Takara's have always been clean.

Ok it's blatantly obvious none of you have ever owned; possibly ever seen one of these so let me prove it to you via images of the two figures.

Takara's:

Hasbros':


And I'll throw in one more image of Takara's that has a clear shot of his battle damage


For better images look them up on this site, I can't pull images from it to show you since it's not working for me, but look both figures up and you tell me whose has B/D and who's is clean.

@Rastamus Prime. It is YOU who obviously doesn't know what you're talking about. The pics you are using for reference is the Hasbro pic with long stacks and the 20th Anniversarry Masterpiece Prime also by Hasbro. The clean version is the DVD Prime version (sans chrome)

If you are still in such a confused state use this as reference:
http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/ ... e-mp-01/1/

This is Ryan Izquierdo's own collection.

It's either I need laser eye surgery or you do. Btw, I don't see any scorch marks here..........maybe Ryan photoshopped them?

http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/ ... 01/1/1/60/

Oh and by the way.........I own one, that is THE first run, chipping prone, Megatron "melt in your hand stock handle" accessory.

And for the "piece the resistance"....... http://www.geocities.com/oblivionsgalle ... oymp1.html

fenrir72 wrote::-B @Rastamus Prime. It is YOU who obviously doesn't know what you're talking about. The pics you are using for reference is the Hasbro pic with long stacks and the 20th Anniversarry Masterpiece Prime also by Hasbro. The clean version is the DVD Prime version (sans chrome)

If you are still in such a confused state use this as reference:
http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/ ... e-mp-01/1/

This is Ryan Izquierdo's own collection.

It's either I need laser eye surgery or you do. Btw, I don't see any scorch marks here..........maybe Ryan photoshopped them?

http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/ ... 01/1/1/60/

Oh and by the way.........I own one, that is THE first run, chipping prone, Megatron "melt in your hand stock handle" accessory.

And for the "piece the resistance"....... http://www.geocities.com/oblivionsgalle ... oymp1.html

Wow wee you're a smart one!

Hell no man open your eyes. Hasbro never made one bearing long stacks. That last one is Takara's version of the Hasbro DVD version. Hasbro ONLY made one version of MP prime and that is the one with the DVD and corny stand. If you wish to argue that, you'd better be ready to come to my house and give me head. Hasbro NEVER used chrome, nor long smokestacks, nor scorch marks.
I'd start checking into lasic surgery.

All pics of Hasbro Optimus Prime Masterpiece portrayed him with long stacks. Same with the 25th Anniversary version. But the content had short stacks. A lot of their pics(Hasbro) had the "enhanced" air brushed effects.

As for me giving you head, well I'd rather do better stuff like getting myself an MP-04 rather than pretending to own one as some people around here are trying to portray themselves as. Btw MP-04 is made by Takara so, does it have scorch marks too?

Takara never sold an Masterpiece version (except the USA Starscream version with Takara stickers) in an open window box. All MPs were sold in the black "whisky" type boxes.

The picture you are using as reference ( the last one in the open window box) IS the 20th Anniversary version by hasbro. And you really need lasic surgery (I hope your health insurance pays for a massive overhaul) 'cause on the box's little corner, there even is a HASBRO logo which no Takara MP product ever portrays.

http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/ ... /1153/1/0/

http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/ ... /1153/1/5/

http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/ ... /1153/1/6/

Btw, the links are from Ryan Izquierdo's (aka Seibertron himself.........the owner of the site FYI)collection. He probably photoshopped them in a grand conspiracy to confuse would be collectors to buy Takara figures by portraying them in Hasbro boxes.

fenrir72 wrote:All pics of Hasbro Optimus Prime Masterpiece portrayed him with long stacks. Same with the 25th Anniversary version. But the content had short stacks. A lot of their pics(Hasbro) had the "enhanced" air brushed effects.

As for me giving you head, well I'd rather do better stuff like getting myself an MP-04 rather than pretending to own one as some people around here are trying to portray themselves as. Btw MP-04 is made by Takara so, does it have scorch marks too?

Takara never sold an Masterpiece version (except the USA Starscream version with Takara stickers) in an open window box. All MPs were sold in the black "whisky" type boxes.

The picture you are using as reference ( the last one in the open window box) IS the 20th Anniversary version by hasbro. And you really need lasic surgery (I hope your health insurance pays for a massive overhaul) 'cause on the box's little corner, there even is a HASBRO logo which no Takara MP product ever portrays.

http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/ ... /1153/1/0/

http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/ ... /1153/1/5/

http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/ ... /1153/1/6/

Btw, the links are from Ryan Izquierdo's (aka Seibertron himself.........the owner of the site FYI)collection. He probably photoshopped them in a grand conspiracy to confuse would be collectors to buy Takara figures by portraying them in Hasbro boxes.

Why would I pretend to own one? What could I possibly gain from it? I'll show you a pic when my phone gets here (I went through a phone change.) Hasbro never made one with that box. I've searched everywhere and the only one they made was one badging the classics box. If Takara remakes a US made product for their market, they keep the Hasbro badge on it and change the Packaging around alittle bit. I know because of the Takara G1 Starscream and all they did was change the lettering and slapped a Takara sticker on it, but the Hasbro original liscensing is still there. They did the same for the DVD edition of the toy. Hasbro never did a chrome version, with long smokestacks man I don't know how many times I have to say that. They made ONE version, and Takara remade the DVD one just like they did the US Wal Mart Starscream for their market.

Three words lasic eye surgery. And perhaps an MRI and a CT-SCan to the head.

fenrir72 wrote:Three words lasic eye surgery. And perhaps an MRI and a CT-SCan to the head.

Hahaha **** you man I'm fine. I was messing with you I'm well aware of the MP Prime models/variations.

Good day sir.

Rx of Ritalin for ADS is recommended. Messing indeed hehehe...........and a dose of intellectual honesty for Pretending to own an MP-04.

personally i enjoy my 20th anniversary prime, but if i had the extra cash, id get a mp prime as well

Takara
MP1, Clean, Long Stacks
MP4, Clean, Long Stacks

Hasbro
20th Ann, Dirty, Short Stacks
DVD, Clean, Short non-chromed stacks

All of this is well documented and easily accessible information.