SID Soundchip Interface

for the SAM Coupé computer

* New 2024 Edition, Configured for 6581 *


This Buy-It-Now item is the brand new 2024 edition of my SID Soundchip Interface for the SAM Coupe.

I first produced a SID soundchip interface back in 2003 which allowed the SAM to use the soundchip from a Commodore 64. This all stemmed from my own small pet project exploring old forms of computer sound - with it's unique sound the SID soundchip remains very popular with computer audiophiles to this day.

The first revision was in June 2014 to add some improvements. This added an onboard DC to DC converter to generate the supply voltage for the SID soundchip so an external PSU is no longer required. The circuit board is also a golden yellow colour marking the 25th Anniversary of the SAM Coupe and is styled to match my other recent hardware such as the Trinity Ethernet Interface and the 2 Way Euroconnector Expansion card.

The second revision was released in January 2024, really for cosmetic appearances to match my SID Interfaces for other systems. An LED has been added to denote the voltage the onboard converter generates showing the type of SID that the interface is configured for - A blue LED for 12v / 6581 SID. Also the PCB legend is now clear within the chip socket to show the type of SID the interface is configured for rather than having written text or a label.

Please note the interface is supplied without a SID chip - you'll have to get your hands on an old C64 and remove the chip (its usually in a socket so very easy to get out). This interface has been configured for the 6581 type of SID.

Please note it is critical to ensure you do not fit a 8580 in an interface configured for the 6581. The 12V voltage generated on the 6581 interface will damage/destroy an 8580. 

Alternatively, the interface will also support modern "SID Replacements" - I've personally used with a standard SwinSID, SwinSID Ultimate and ARMSID. (These run independent of the supply voltage / filter capacitors fitted) 

Bundled with the interface is a disk of software, featuring Simon Owen's marvelous .sid playback code. Using a software emulator to run 6510 machine code (the Commodore 64's processor) the SAM is able to run .sid music files in realtime (essentially partial C64 emulation on the SAM!) so there's now the ability to listen to thousands of C64 music files. The disk features a selection of some of our favourite tunes!

A 3.5mm stereo socket is fitted on the board for the audio output. A set of amplified speakers will be required to connect here to hear the SID sound.

If you have any questions with regards to this item then please use the 'Ask Seller A Question' option.

Thanks for looking.

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