Amstrad ZX Spectrum +2 upgrades

The grey-cased 1986 Spectrum +2, the first Amstrad-produced model, with an integrated cassette recorder.

Also called: Spectrum +2, Grey +2, Gray +2, +2 Grey

At a glance

Introduced: 1986

Products listed: 5

Exact-model evidence: 5

Family/interface evidence: 0

Upgrade types: 3

Vintage searches: 0

Upgrade directory: ZX Spectrum +2

Browse everything below, or filter by product type, availability, and compatibility basis. Notes explain whether evidence names an exact target, a broader family, or only the relevant bus or interface for this computer.

Showing 5 products.

StatusProductWhat it doesLinks
AvailableChecked Jul 27, 2026BISON FPGA DivMMC TurboSound 2xAYby Lotharek

Combines DivMMC-compatible microSD storage, 512 KB of expansion RAM, dual-AY audio, DAC modes, and configurable joystick or mouse input on the ZX expansion bus.

For this system (exact model): The upstream project explicitly reports testing on the grey +2. Treat this model as Sinclair mode rather than the later Amstrad +2A/+2B bus behavior.

The seller exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27 and documented firmware 1.5. Power off before changing the edge connection or input mode. Automatic Sinclair-versus-Amstrad selection depends on 9 V at edge pin 3B; compatible clones without that signal need the documented modification. Firmware updates require a separate Gowin programmer and removal of the flash ROM. Prepare a separate FAT32 microSD card with the supported ESXDOS release.

Sources
AvailableChecked Jul 27, 2026DIAGNOROMby Lotharek

An external fifteen-ROM selector for original Sinclair 48K, 128K, and grey +2 computers, controlled by one button and binary indicator LEDs.

For this system (exact model): The seller's original-machine list explicitly includes the grey +2. It excludes the black +2A, +2B, and +3.

The seller exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27 and explicitly limits support to original Sinclair 48K, 128K, and grey +2 machines. Power off before connecting or removing it. Confirm the exact ROM contents and any software licensing from the current unit rather than assuming every example named on the board is supplied or redistributable.

Sources
AvailableChecked Jul 27, 2026DivIDE_AYby Lotharek

Combines CompactFlash storage, four selectable firmware slots, AY sound, stereo output, and two joystick ports on a ZX Spectrum expansion interface.

For this system (exact model): The seller explicitly treats the grey +2 as a Sinclair-mode machine, not an Amstrad-mode +2B or +3.

The seller exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27. Use a CompactFlash card with one active FAT16 partition and remove it only while power is off. The page distinguishes Sinclair and Amstrad bus modes, says the grey +2 is not an Amstrad-mode machine, and explicitly names +2B and +3 for Amstrad mode. It does not clearly establish +2A support, so that model is not attached.

Sources
AvailableChecked Jul 28, 2026PCF1306P CPLD Replacementby Lotharek

A Xilinx CPLD module replacing specific failed gate-array chips in late ZX Spectrum 48K, 128K, and grey +2 computers.

For this system (exact model): The seller identifies the Amstrad 40058 in the grey +2 as a replaced part. This does not establish support for the black +2A or +2B.

The seller exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27 and gives an unusually precise chip and host list. Neither the page nor human review supplies a removal, socket, orientation, or board-revision procedure. Treat this as skilled rework and obtain exact installation instructions before buying or disturbing the original gate array.

Sources
AvailableChecked Jul 27, 2026SLAM128 Revised 2K24by Mark Smith, Zaxon, and Lotharek

A revised CPLD ULA replacement for the original ZX Spectrum 128K and grey Spectrum +2.

For this system (exact model): The seller explicitly names the grey +2 and explicitly excludes the black +2A and +2B.

The seller exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27 and explicitly limits this revision to the original 128K toastrack and grey +2. It does not support the black +2A or +2B. ULA removal and replacement is skilled board work; confirm socketing, orientation, current installation instructions, and motherboard condition before starting.

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