Argent Meister BT-20 (Binaltech, 2008)

 

BT-20 Cybertron Argent Meister
● Function: Adjutant
● Transformation: Mazda RX-8 MAZDASPEED Version II
● Weapon(s): Photon Rifle, Flamethrower
Meister's latest upgraded form is equipped with a silver coating substance commonly known as "Argent," which significantly enhances his physical abilities and durability. This substance is an artificially synthesised replacement for the rare element "Electrum," which once sprang from the secret Golden Lagoon on Earth, bestowing Transformers with unmatched power. It not only permits power regulation through energy charge control but can also transform into a liquid form, facilitating the coating of any desired target. He holds a deep affection for Earth's culture and experiences an indescribable sense of unease regarding the ongoing situation, where the rapid proliferation of Binaltech technology is fundamentally altering human civilisation.
STR...9; INT...9; SPD...7; END...10; RNK...8; CRG...9; FBL...5; SKL...10; TTL…67

Other Resources:

• Transformers Binaltech Toy List
• Transformers Alternators Toy List
• Transformers Binaltech Translated Bios
• Transformers Binaltech Story Translation
• Full BT-20 Argent Meister Gallery

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• Overview
• Translations

Overview

Meister had already featured in the Binaltech line in 2004 as a white RX-8 and his "clone" the Meister Velocity Red Mica Edition, named "Zoom-Zoom". When Laserwave was released the following year, he was an upgraded version of the Mazda RX-8, the Mazdaspeed Version II. It is this Laserwave mould that is used for BT-20 Argent Meister.

In February 2008 the above image was leaked alongside a solicitation for BT-19 Bluestreak. As pictured above Takara were tying this release in with the 2007 live action movie where Jazz appeared as a silver Pontiac Solstice.

BT-20 was released at the end of June 2008. At first I thought there was a spelling error with the name "Argent Meister" as I thought it was meant to be "Agent Meister". However Argent is derived from the Latin "argenti" which means silver. The Binaltech story explains that Argent is a synthesised version of Electrum, the liquid from the Golden Lagoon as seen in the Season 2 cartoon episode of the same name. Instead of a gold coating the synthetic version coats the recipient in silver.

In my opinion the Mazda mould is one of the best Binaltech figures with a decent transformation and articulation. 

Translations

Translated from the rear of the box:-

Transformers Binaltech
Introduced in 2003, the "Binaltech" series garnered praise from both Transformers fans and model car enthusiasts. It has now made a return, take a closer look. The premium presentation maintains the inclusion of die-cast (metal) parts. The vehicle (automobile) mode has been faithfully reproduced under the car manufacturers' supervision, complete with opening and closing doors and a steering mechanism linked to the front left and right wheels. In robot mode, the articulation enables a wide range of action poses for your enjoyment. Experience the incredible transformations brought to life by the ever-evolving design of the "Transformers" series.

MAZDA RX-8 MAZDASPEED Version II
This is a faithful reproduction of the "RX-8 Mazdaspeed Version II," a high-performance iteration of the new-generation sports car, the Mazda RX-8. Completely outfitted with parts from Mazdaspeed, Mazda's in-house performance division, this faithfully replicates the specialised dynamic styling of the sports model, complete with the genuine factory body colour, “Sunlight Silver Metallic”.

CYBERTRON ARGENT MEISTER
Adjutant Meister made his debut in the original animated series "Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers" and has continued to be a recurring character in subsequent series. This Cybertron Warrior gained popularity due to his intellect and mild-mannered demeanour. This time, he showcases Mazda's authentic "Sunlight Silver Metallic" finish and has undergone an upgrade to achieve a more stylish appearance. This transformation includes not only the bold colour scheme but also outfitting his entire body with “Mazdaspeed” parts. With his new silver hue, he has rightfully earned the "Silver Argent" title.

• The front wheel steering mechanism has been enhanced to achieve a smoother transformation and improved joint movement in robot mode.
• A low protruding lip spoiler significantly enhances cooling performance by maximising its air intake capacity.
• The actual car's primary selling point lies in its practical rear bucket seats, which offer exceptional comfort and utility. Furthermore, the centre console in the driver's area has been faithfully replicated.
• The robot head features a dual-visor design and offers full mobility through a ball joint mechanism.
• In addition to wielding weapons, the posable hands can also be utilised to convey a range of expressions.

Binaltech Story “Unfinished Business Part 2”
Argent Meister rallied his troops for an assault at a location pinpointed through Bluestreak's energy data. This target was a research facility suspected to serve as the headquarters for "The Concurrence," a human criminal organisation. Inside, a sinister plot unfolded, posing a grave threat to the life of their fellow Cybertron Warrior, Prowl. They charged towards a colossal subterranean hangar, coming face to face with a massive golden "giant," believed to be the handiwork of their adversary. Amidst the chaos of fleeing human workers, they spotted a familiar robotic silhouette at the feet of the giant - none other than the Destron soldier, Swindle.

 
"This colossal entity is a liquid-like robot crafted entirely from synthetic Electrum!" cried Wheeljack. Beneath its smooth exterior ran a complex neural net framework and subspace translink nodes. "They're syphoning Prowl's lifecore energy and channelling it into this abomination!"
The enemy's objective seemed to revolve around harnessing Binaltech technology for the creation of super lifeforms. Unfortunately, the backflow of energy from the Electrum had taken a toll on the giant's core, pushing it to its breaking point. With a deafening roar, the colossal construct launched a savage assault. Despite being synthetic, the Electrum effortlessly repelled all attacks, and a single strike from the giant's arm tore through the thick inner wall of the hangar.

 
"Artificial Electrum appears to be quite the hot research topic. I've got the results of our own experiments right here... Let's see which is better! Meister enveloped his entire form in "Argent" armour, his body ablaze with energy as he surged forward in a radiant silver aura. A monumental clash of energies reverberated through the subterranean chamber. In the next instant, the giant crumpled to its knees. Meister then applied Argent coating to Grimlock's sword and plunged it into the giant's back, extracting its translink node. "Bluestreak, let loose on this monstrosity!"

 
Upon exiting the now-conquered facility, Meister and his companions received a transmission from Overdrive in the "official world." The news was grim; Prowl's core unit had sustained severe damage, rendering it impossible to transport across dimensions. The sole lifeline was to dispatch a Binaltech body from their world and conduct intricate regeneration surgery on-site. With Prowl temporarily on life support, Chip Chase's consciousness was transferred back into his own body. From his hospital bed, he watched as Prowl's form was carefully carried away on a monitor. Nevertheless, there was hope for a complete recovery now.

 
“It was the humans who created that monster.” sneered the captive Swindle. "Old Arkeville stumbled upon that core by sheer luck. I merely offered some advice." Despite the Destrons keeping a low profile, they maintained constant communication with the nefarious organisation, pushing the boundaries with their experiments in Binaltech development. The situation was dire, leaving no room for a moment's respite. Meister nonchalantly shrugged his shoulders, briefly contemplating who he should gift his concert tickets to for tomorrow's show.