FM Synth board interest

[per]

Some of us have been working on a small FM synth project, which is an ISA board where you can fit either one of Yamaha's 4-op (OPM/OPP/OPZ/OPZII) or 2-op (OPL/OPL2) FM synths, and use it as soundcard.

The OPL2 option is supported by anything containing AdLib support, but the other synths will require some custom programming if chosen.

What kind of synth is selected with a set of jumpers. In addition, the I/O address of the card can be set to any even I/O port between 000h to 3FEh, where 388h must be chosen if you want the OPL2 option to be compatible with AdLib compatible software. The board output stereo, where both the R and L channel is independently ajustable.

At the moment we are still searching for testers, and if we get enough to do a proper test run and the board work properly, then we will start selling PCBs. Lynchaj is curently in charge for the PCB production, but if we get enough offers, I may consider to prepare sets which includes the parts (except for the actual synth IC). It all depends on how much time I got and how this project eventually evolves.

 

[NobodyIsHere]

Hi! It might help to spread the word on the FM Synth board project to post a note about it on retrogamer/classic gaming sites also.

It was pointed out on a previous thread that similar compatible hardware is quite rare and can be expensive ($100 range). The situation for 8 bit OPL2 boards is a bit like 8 bit IDE boards prior to XT-IDE. They exist but are rare and expensive when available. The FM Synth project promises to increase availability and reduce cost significantly if it can launch. The prototype board is already designed and ready to go pending getting some actual prototype PCBs.

Thanks and have a nice day!

Andrew Lynch

 

[PeterNY]

Awesome! Have you considered sharing the goods news with http://www.queststudios.com and http://vogons.zetafleet.com? Also, there are Sound Blaster 2.0 (CT1350) cards available through eBay for USD 24 including shipping right now: http://cgi.ebay.com/290515355457 Those are 8-bit too and perfect for retro gaming.​

 

[NobodyIsHere]

Awesome! Have you considered sharing the goods news with http://www.queststudios.com and http://vogons.zetafleet.com? Also, there are Sound Blaster 2.0 (CT1350) cards available through eBay for USD 24 including shipping right now: http://cgi.ebay.com/290515355457 Those are 8-bit too and perfect for retro gaming.

Hi! You've got the right idea but to be clear we have to get through the initial prototype build and test phase before manufactured PCBs will be available. We still need 3-4 builders for the first round of boards. I have one builders signed up for sure right now.

Thanks and have a nice day!

Andrew Lynch

 

[Mike Chambers]

this is a very interesting project. i might just buy one depending on price.