We're sending word that another dev team has recently announced details for its upcoming Wii modchip, dubbed Wasabi. Based on what we're picking from this chip's official site, one of Wasabi's biggest features appears to be its admittedly low number of wires.

The chip will only need five wires on DMS, D2A units, and D2B. Wasabi will require nine on a D2C. Here's a lowdown on the rest of the Wasabi modchip's functions:

• Direct boot of Wii and Gamecube original, import, and backup discs
• Supports all chipset versions: DMS, D2A, D2B and D2C (including D1A)
• Supports all regions, configurable via jumpers
• Fully upgradable from DVD (no external programmer required)
• Only 5 wires on DMS, D2A, D2B
• Only 9 wires on D2C (only 3 of them soldered to pin/via)
• Very easy installation on "cut-pin" drives
• On-board flash (128KB)
• Integrated Audiostreaming fix for GC games
• Excellent media compatibility (supports DL media)
• Works with SMG and SSBB
• Flash recovery mode
• Two LED for easy installation troubleshooting
• Full firmware control even on D2C chipset
• Drivecode symmetry between all chipset versions
• Compatible with all GC and Wii homebrew programs
• No extra wires required for region override
• No external switch required