RetroArch cores vs standalone emus - multi-disc games

[TimmyT]

Hello everyone,

I'm using Windows 10 x64 as OS and I'm currently setting up my Launchbox and have some questions. I already set up following emulators:
PlayStation 3 = PCSR3
GameCube, Wii = Dolphin
For NES I'm planning to use 3dSen

I would like to add emulators for:
SNES
Sega Saturn
PS1
PS2

Now I'm wondering whether I should use standalone emulators or RetroArch cores? 

I don't quite understand the benefit of RetroArch to be honest. Are the cores better than standalone emulators? If so, which cores would you recommend for the platforms mentioned above? What is the general consensus among the forum members?

Which emulators / cores would you recommend for multi-disc games? I would like to automate disc swapping to make it more comfortable. Which emulators / cores do you use to accomplish that?
I read about LB creating m3u Files automatically but which emulators support that?

Edited August 8, 2021 by TimmyT

[polygonslayer]

I don't think one is necessarily better than the other. It all depends on what you want to do and how much you care about certain things.
Personally I use Retroarch cores whenever available unless the core is just not as compatible as a stand alone emulator. The main reason for me is that since I use Big Box a lot and game with a gamepad it just makes the whole process much more seamless since Retroarch's menus are excellent to navigate with a controller. Also I find that RA has such an easy way to make per-game configs on the fly, built in retro achievements, quick and easy disc swapping via m3u support, remapping controls per game etc. Most of this stuff can all be done by just using the controller too.
The interface is also nice and clean (using the switch style) and matches my Big Box look so it all seems like it's part of the same system.

But in terms of compatibility between the best cores and the best stand alone ones, I don't know if there is much noticeable difference for the average user. In the end it really comes down to preference and what specific needs you might have for any given system

Also recommend this site for checking which emulators/cores are recommended for certain systems etc.
http://emulation.gametechwiki.com/index.php/Main_Page

When it comes to disc swapping I use m3u files and the beetle cores for both Saturn and PS1.
https://docs.libretro.com/library/beetle_psx/
https://docs.libretro.com/library/beetle_psx_hw/

https://docs.libretro.com/library/beetle_saturn/

[TimmyT]

Thanks!

Do I need all BIOS versions mentioned below for optimal performance of the PSX_HW core?

[polygonslayer]

The beetle core need a bios for the region that the game comes from, so on that list if you are playing Japan, Europe and North American games then you will need the top three. The bottom two seem like they are other options, if you got either of those then you don't need the top three? at least that is what it seems like to me. I've not tried the bottom two so I got no idea