BlueRetro Sega Master System Bluetooth Controller Adapter

This RetroScaler BlueRetro Sega Master System Bluetooth Controller Adapter connects selected modern Bluetooth controllers to compatible original Sega SG-1000, SG-1000 II, Mark III and Master System consoles.

The compact wireless receiver connects to a compatible standard Sega 9-pin controller port, providing plug and play with no console modification required and drawing power from the console. A 9-pin extension cable is included when positioning the receiver away from the console is more convenient.

Built around the ESP32-based BlueRetro platform, the adapter translates compatible Bluetooth controller inputs into the digital directions and two action-button commands used by standard Sega controllers. A suitable analogue stick can also be mapped to digital directions, allowing you to play standard controller games with a modern gamepad.

It offers wide compatibility with official Sony DualShock 3, DualShock 4 and DualSense controllers, Bluetooth-enabled Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S controllers, Xbox Adaptive Controllers, Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers and Joy-Con, Wii Remotes, Wii U Pro Controllers and selected 8BitDo and Retro-Bit Bluetooth controllers. Support depends on the controller model, firmware and operating mode.

The supplied manual specifies XInput mode for its supported 8BitDo and Retro-Bit examples. Official DualShock 3 and Sixaxis controllers require additional initial pairing setup using a compatible computer. Controllers that operate only through a proprietary 2.4GHz receiver cannot connect through Bluetooth.

Button assignments can be adjusted through BlueRetro Web Config, letting you choose suitable directional inputs and convenient Button 1 and Button 2 positions. Configuration uses a Bluetooth-enabled computer or Android device with a compatible browser supporting Web Bluetooth.

The adapter supports standard two-button digital controller functions. The console-mounted Master System Pause button, Sega Light Phaser, Sports Pad, paddle and other specialist peripheral functions are not reproduced. Analogue-stick conversion does not add specialist analogue control or extra game actions.

The manufacturer identifies the SG-1000, SG-1000 II, Mark III and Japanese Master System in its compatibility artwork. On an original SG-1000, the adapter uses the external Player 2 port and does not replace the permanently attached Player 1 joystick. On supported consoles with two compatible controller ports, use a separate adapter for each wireless player.

Wireless firmware updating is available through the BlueRetro OTA updater. Only install a firmware build confirmed compatible with this exact RetroScaler adapter and hardware revision.

Finished in Black, the adapter is supplied from UK stock with fast UK delivery, tracked international delivery to supported destinations and a 12-month Retrolize warranty.

Explore our complete range of Bluetooth controller adapters for retro consoles.

If you also need a controller, explore our wireless controllers for retro consoles. Choose a compatible Bluetooth model for use with this adapter.

For original Mega Drive or Genesis consoles, see the dedicated BlueRetro Mega Drive & Genesis controller adapter.

Brand: RetroScaler
Product Name: BlueRetro Sega Master System Bluetooth Controller Adapter
Product Type: Bluetooth controller adapter & wireless receiver
Model: BlueRetro for Sega Master System
Manufacturer Product Code: XLL-BLUERETRO-SMS-1TO1-BK
Platform: BlueRetro open-source hardware & software
Core Hardware: ESP32
Wireless Technology: Bluetooth Classic BR/EDR & Bluetooth Low Energy
Wireless Receiver: Integrated BlueRetro receiver
Receiver Connection: Compatible 9-pin Sega controller port
Receiver Power: Console controller port
Controllers Per Receiver: 1
Controller Output: Standard two-button Sega digital gamepad emulation
Directional Input: Digital Up, Down, Left & Right
Standard Action Buttons: Button 1 & Button 2
Analogue Stick Input: Converted into digital directional commands
Console Pause Function: Not available through the standard controller-port connection
Rumble: Not supported by the original standard Sega controller interface
Specialist Controller Support: Light Phaser, Sports Pad, paddle, driving & other specialist peripherals not emulated
Button Mapping: Configurable
Configuration: BlueRetro Web Config
Firmware Updating: OTA through BlueRetro Web Updater with hardware-compatible firmware
8BitDo Operating Mode: Model dependent; supplied manual examples use XInput
Retro-Bit Operating Mode: Model dependent; supplied manual examples use XInput
Console Modification Required: No
External Power Required: No
USB Connection: Not fitted
Colour: Black
SKU: BR-SMS-BLK

Compatible Sega Consoles

Original Sega SG-1000: Supported through the external Player 2 controller port
Sega SG-1000 II: Supported
Sega Mark III: Supported
Japanese Sega Master System: Supported
Original Sega Master System / Master System I: Supported
Sega Master System II: Supported
Sega Master System III: Supported when fitted with a compatible standard Sega 9-pin controller port

Compatible Bluetooth Controllers

Official Sony DualShock 4 Controllers: Supported
Official Sony DualSense Controllers: Supported
Official Sony DualShock 3 & Sixaxis Controllers: Supported with additional first-time pairing setup
Bluetooth-Enabled Xbox One Controllers: Supported with compatible firmware
Xbox Series X|S Wireless Controllers: Supported with compatible firmware
Xbox Adaptive Controllers: Supported with compatible firmware
Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers & Joy-Con: Supported with appropriate mapping and configuration
Nintendo Wii Remotes & Wii U Pro Controllers: Supported
Selected 8BitDo Bluetooth Controllers: Support varies by model, firmware and operating mode
Selected Retro-Bit Bluetooth Controllers: Support varies by model, firmware and operating mode
Selected Bluetooth HID Controllers: Support varies by controller hardware, firmware and operating mode

Sega Controller Functions & Output

Digital Directional Controls: Supported
Standard Sega Button 1: Supported
Standard Sega Button 2: Supported
Standard Two-Button Digital Gamepad Emulation: Supported
Analogue Stick Input: Supported through conversion into digital directional commands
Configurable Button Mapping: Supported through BlueRetro Web Config

Connection Requirements

Controllers Per Adapter: One
Adapters Required For Multiplayer: One adapter for each wireless controller
Original SG-1000 Maximum: One adapter through the external Player 2 controller port
SG-1000 II, Mark III & Master System Maximum: Two adapters through two compatible controller ports
Console Modification: Not required
Standard Power Source: Console controller port
Included 9-Pin Extension Cable: Supported
Insertion & Removal: Switch the console off first
Web Config: Compatible browser with Web Bluetooth support on a Bluetooth-enabled computer or Android device
Firmware Updating: Only use firmware confirmed compatible with this exact RetroScaler adapter

Compatible Controller Required: A supported Bluetooth controller is required and is not included. Compatibility can vary between controller models, hardware revisions, firmware versions and operating modes.

One Adapter Per Controller: A separate adapter and available compatible controller port are required for each wireless controller.

Console Compatibility: RetroScaler’s manufacturer compatibility artwork identifies the original Sega SG-1000, SG-1000 II, Sega Mark III and Japanese Sega Master System alongside standard Sega Master System consoles.

Original SG-1000 Connection: The original SG-1000 has a permanently attached Player 1 joystick. The adapter connects through the console’s external Player 2 controller port and does not replace the hardwired Player 1 joystick.

Master System III Compatibility: Use only with Master System III hardware fitted with a compatible standard Sega 9-pin controller port. The Master System III name covers different hardware versions; compatibility must not be assumed for every model.

Standard Gamepad Emulation: The adapter reproduces the digital directional controls and two action buttons of a standard Sega SG-1000, Mark III or Master System controller.

Analogue Stick Input: Compatible analogue-stick movement can be converted into digital directional commands. This does not provide analogue paddle or Sports Pad input.

Console Pause Function: The Sega Master System Pause function is located on the console and cannot normally be activated through the standard controller port. Continue using the console’s Pause button.

Specialist Controllers: The adapter does not reproduce Sega Light Phaser, Sports Pad, paddle, driving or other specialist peripheral functions.

Bluetooth Controllers Only: Controllers that operate exclusively through a proprietary 2.4GHz receiver or USB dongle cannot connect through Bluetooth.

8BitDo & Retro-Bit Operating Mode: The supplied manual specifies XInput mode for its supported 8BitDo and Retro-Bit Bluetooth controller examples. Use the documented mode for the exact controller model; Bluetooth connectivity alone does not guarantee compatibility.

PS3 Controller Pairing: Official Sony DualShock 3 and Sixaxis controllers require additional first-time setup. Follow the Windows pairing procedure in the supplied instruction booklet or the BlueRetro controller pairing guide.

Xbox Controller Compatibility: Bluetooth-enabled Xbox One controllers, Xbox Series X|S controllers and Xbox Adaptive Controllers are supported with compatible firmware. Xbox 360 controllers and original Xbox One controllers without Bluetooth are not supported.

Rumble: The original standard Sega controller interface used by this adapter does not provide game-controlled rumble.

Other 9-Pin Systems: This is the Master System adapter. Do not assume compatibility with Mega Drive, Genesis, Atari or other systems simply because they use a similar connector.

Hot Plugging: Always switch the console off before inserting or removing the adapter or extension cable.

Firmware Compatibility: Only install firmware explicitly confirmed as compatible with this exact RetroScaler adapter and hardware revision.

First-Time Pairing

1. Switch the console off.
2. Connect the BlueRetro adapter to the required compatible 9-pin controller port, either directly or using the included extension cable.
3. On an original SG-1000, use the external Player 2 controller port.
4. Switch the console on. The adapter should enter pairing mode and its purple LED should pulse.
5. If pairing mode does not begin automatically, hold the BOOT button for between three and six seconds.
6. Place the supported Bluetooth controller into its pairing mode, using the correct operating mode for that model.
7. Wait for the adapter LED to change to constant blue.
8. Test the directional controls and both action buttons with a game using a standard controller.
9. Once pairing information has been stored, the controller can normally reconnect by being switched on again.
10. Always switch the console off before removing or changing the adapter.

Adapter Button Functions

Press For Under 3 Seconds: Stops pairing mode or disconnects connected Bluetooth devices.
Hold For 3–6 Seconds: Starts Bluetooth pairing mode for a new controller.
Configuration Reset: Follow the instructions for the installed firmware. A configuration reset must not be assumed to restore the original firmware supplied with the adapter.

LED Indicator

Pulsing Purple LED: The adapter is searching for a wireless controller.
Constant Blue LED: A Bluetooth controller is connected successfully.
Constant Red LED: A Bluetooth or adapter error has occurred. Switch the console off, check the connection and restart the adapter.

Controller-Specific Pairing Information

DualShock 4: With the controller switched off, hold Share + PS until its light flashes.
DualSense: With the controller switched off, hold Create + PS until its light flashes.
Xbox Controllers: Switch the supported controller on and hold its pairing button until the Xbox indicator flashes rapidly.
Nintendo Switch Controllers: Use the controller’s physical SYNC button to start pairing.
8BitDo Bluetooth Controllers: Use the supported operating mode for the exact model. The manual’s examples use XInput mode, selected through Start + X or the controller’s X-mode switch.
Retro-Bit Bluetooth Controllers: Use the supported operating mode for the exact model. The manual’s examples use XInput mode.
DualShock 3 & Sixaxis: Complete the additional Windows pairing procedure using the adapter’s Bluetooth address before connecting wirelessly.

Keep analogue sticks and triggers in their neutral positions while connecting. With supported Xbox and XInput devices, press a face button a few times after connection while leaving the sticks and triggers untouched.

Using BlueRetro Web Config

1. Switch the console on with the adapter connected.
2. Ensure that no Bluetooth controller is currently connected to the adapter.
3. Open BlueRetro Web Config using a compatible Chrome-based browser on a Bluetooth-enabled computer or Android device with Web Bluetooth support.
4. Connect to the adapter through the browser.
5. Configure directional inputs, Button 1 and Button 2 assignments and other supported settings as required.
6. Save the changes.
7. Disconnect the browser session, reconnect the controller and test the controls.

Directional And Button Mapping

Map suitable controller inputs to Up, Down, Left, Right, Button 1 and Button 2.

An analogue stick can be used as the source for digital directions. The console still receives the same directional commands as a standard digital controller.

Some supported 8BitDo controllers report their D-pad as a stick input in certain modes. Check the model-specific controller instructions and BlueRetro mapping if the D-pad does not respond as expected.

Mapping a controller’s Start or Home button does not give this adapter access to the console-mounted Master System Pause function.

Firmware Updating

The adapter can be updated through the BlueRetro OTA Firmware Updater while powered by the console and with no controller connected.

Only install firmware explicitly confirmed as compatible with this exact RetroScaler adapter and hardware revision. Keep the adapter powered throughout the update and wait for the updater to complete before switching off the console.

This model does not have a USB connection.

Connection & Control Troubleshooting

Controller Will Not Pair: Check that it supports Bluetooth, is using the correct operating mode and is actively pairing. Disconnect it from another device if necessary.

Web Config Cannot Find The Adapter: Disconnect the controller first. Check that Bluetooth is enabled and that the browser supports Web Bluetooth.

Button 1 And Button 2 Are Reversed: Check the controller’s operating mode and adjust the button assignments through BlueRetro Web Config.

D-Pad Does Not Respond: Check whether the controller reports its D-pad as a stick input in the selected mode, then use the appropriate controller setting or mapping.

Pause Does Not Work From The Controller: Use the console’s Pause button. The standard controller-port connection does not provide this function.

A Specialist Game Does Not Respond Correctly: Check the controller type required by the game. This adapter does not emulate Light Phaser, Sports Pad, paddle or other specialist inputs.

1 × RetroScaler BlueRetro Sega Master System Bluetooth Controller Adapter in Black
1 × 9-pin controller extension cable
1 × Instruction booklet
1 × Retail box

This RetroScaler BlueRetro Sega Master System Bluetooth Controller Adapter is covered by a 12-month Retrolize warranty against manufacturing defects and hardware faults arising during normal use from the date of delivery.

The warranty does not cover accidental damage, liquid damage, forced insertion, hot plugging, unauthorised modification, incorrect external power, incorrectly performed or interrupted firmware updates, or firmware not explicitly confirmed as compatible with this exact adapter.

Compatibility differences caused by unsupported controllers, proprietary 2.4GHz receivers, third-party controller firmware, individual games or unsupported operating modes are not considered product faults.

Warranty claims remain subject to the full Retrolize warranty terms and are additional to the customer’s statutory rights.

Can I Use A PS5 DualSense Controller?

Yes. An official Sony DualSense controller can be paired with the adapter and used for standard Sega directional and action-button controls.

Can I Use A PS4 DualShock 4 Controller?

Yes. Pair it using Share + PS, then check the directional and Button 1 and Button 2 mapping.

Can I Use An Xbox Controller?

Yes. Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Adaptive and Bluetooth-enabled Xbox One controllers are supported with compatible firmware. Xbox 360 controllers and original Xbox One controllers without Bluetooth are not supported.

Can I Use A PS3 Controller?

Official Sony DualShock 3 and Sixaxis controllers are supported with additional first-time pairing setup. Follow the Windows procedure in the supplied instruction booklet or the BlueRetro controller pairing guide.

Can I Use An 8BitDo Controller?

Selected 8BitDo Bluetooth controllers are supported. Use the operating mode documented for the exact model; the supplied manual’s examples use XInput.

Some models report their D-pad as an analogue-stick input in certain modes. Check the controller’s instructions and mapping if directional controls do not behave as expected.

Can I Use A Retro-Bit Bluetooth Controller?

Selected Retro-Bit Bluetooth controllers are supported in the appropriate operating mode. The supplied manual’s examples use XInput. Controllers designed to work only with a proprietary 2.4GHz receiver cannot connect through Bluetooth.

Can An Analogue Stick Control Sega Games?

Yes. The adapter can convert compatible analogue-stick movement into the digital directional commands used by a standard Sega controller. This does not provide Sports Pad or paddle emulation.

Can A Controller Button Activate The Master System Pause Function?

No. This adapter does not reproduce the console-mounted Pause function through the standard controller-port connection. Continue using the console’s Pause button.

Does It Support The Sega Light Phaser Or Sports Pad?

No. The adapter emulates a standard digital Sega gamepad and does not reproduce Light Phaser, Sports Pad, paddle, driving or other specialist peripheral functions.

Can I Connect Two Wireless Controllers?

Yes, on supported consoles with two compatible controller ports. Each wireless controller requires its own adapter.

The original SG-1000 has a permanently attached Player 1 joystick, so one adapter can be connected through its external Player 2 controller port.

Can I Use A Controller’s 2.4GHz USB Receiver?

No. Controllers that operate only through a proprietary 2.4GHz receiver cannot connect to this Bluetooth adapter.

Does It Work With An Original Sega SG-1000?

Yes. The manufacturer identifies the original SG-1000 as compatible. The adapter connects through the external Player 2 controller port and does not replace the permanently attached Player 1 joystick.

Does It Work With The SG-1000 II And Sega Mark III?

Yes. The manufacturer’s compatibility artwork identifies both consoles as compatible with the adapter.

Does It Work With A Master System II Or Master System III?

The Sega Master System II is supported. A Master System III can be used when it has a compatible standard Sega 9-pin controller port. Compatibility must not be assumed for every console sold under the Master System III name.

Does It Work With A Sega Mega Drive Or Genesis?

Use the dedicated BlueRetro Mega Drive & Genesis adapter for those consoles. A similar 9-pin connector does not make this Master System model interchangeable.

What Is The Included Extension Cable For?

The 9-pin extension cable lets you position the receiver away from the console when direct access is awkward. Switch the console off before connecting or removing it.

Does Resetting Restore The Original Firmware?

Not necessarily. Reset behaviour depends on the installed firmware. A configuration reset and factory-firmware restoration are different operations; follow the instructions for the exact adapter and firmware.

Is International Delivery Available?

Yes. International tracked delivery is available to supported destinations, with available services and delivery costs calculated at checkout.