Having multiple Soundblasters, I decided that I would first pass on ANOTHER reissue. Sadly, I choked when I got the itch to get the redeco cassettes. Though not quite as "hot" as the Encore 22 cassettes, Enemy (the Frenzy/Rumble repaint) is my favorite of the lot. His color scheme is subdued and not too aggressive and works rather well. Wingthing will grow on you as well.

As for Soundblaster, I was pleasantly surprised with his aesthetics despite his somewhat oversized Decepticon sigil. He does not come with decals as everything is applied directly to the figure with a laser or something. The figure is very eye catching. Personally, I prefer the Takara Collection version but this one holds its own.

If you're like me, you: 1.) LOVE the cassette characters, and 2.) LOVED Soundwave, but could never afford the absurd asking prices for the Japan-Only exclusive, Soundblaster.

Well, its time to rejoice because Takara has done people like me a HUGE Favor with this release. Soundblaster, in all his matte black glory is touched up with the usual Encore touches, including better paint aps on his head. His stickers come pre-applied which is nice seems they look perfect! He sports the later-mold double deck chest, so both of his included minions fit inside his dock.

The minions, however, are where I TRULY fell in love with this set. Both Enemy and Wingthing are NEW cassette characters based on old Takara toys. Wingthing is based on his action-master version included with Action master Soundwave and is a redeco of Ratbat (one of the all time best cassette designs used!) Enemy is the fan-favorite characters based on the Takara "Voice Change" toy and is a redeco of the Rumble and Frenzy mold, but features a more red-based color scheme. This is easily the best Encore set released so far, in my humble opinion, and its well worth every penny for collectors to pick up!