Tag: turbosound

FPGA-based AY-3-8912 replacement with the original Amstrad sound path and an optional separate three-channel stereo output.

The Lotharek page exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path, and Retro Lemon showed the module in stock on 2026-07-28. Retro Lemon identifies it as an AY-3-8912 replacement that auto-detects Amstrad or ZX operation and says normal installation is a no-solder socket swap. Optional CPC 6128 stereo output still requires removing or cutting resistors R117 through R120 and wiring AL and AR or a separate jack. Exact ZX models, other chip footprints, orientation, voltage, clock, and firmware remain undocumented, so no ZX target is attached.

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.

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.

Combines DivMMC microSD storage, USB HID input, four ROM slots, snapshot storage, dual-AY audio, and DAC modes in one ZX expansion interface.

The seller exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27. Its published testing covers the original 48K, original 128K, Pentagon, and KRAKEN. The page says +2A and +2B compatibility still has known issues and that keyboard-mapped USB input will not work on +2A or +3 because of data-bus coupling; those models are not attached. Treat the described resistor workaround as experimental, not an installation recommendation. Follow the separate FPGA and USB-controller update procedures exactly.

A current ZX Spectrum-compatible motherboard for an original 48K or Spectrum+ case, with real and FPGA Z80 modes, 512 KB of RAM, enhanced video, and extensive audio.

The assembled and tested Revision 1.5C motherboard exposed an order path on 2026-07-27. It requires a separate original 48K or Spectrum+ case, keyboard membrane, video cable, display, and 9 V AC or DC supply rated for at least 400 mA with the documented 2.5/5.1 mm plug. Power polarity does not matter. Lotharek separately sells its 9 V, 1.5 A PWR4 for KRAKEN, without a country-specific mains lead. The page's layout drawing shows Revision 1.5B, which differs slightly. External DivMMC or DivIDE hardware may not work in turbo modes.

Replaces the ULA, video RAM, upper RAM, and RF modulator in Issue 2 through 6 ZX Spectrum 48K boards while adding modern video, sound, memory, and machine modes.

The seller listed availability after 2026-08-31 and exposed a preorder path on 2026-07-27. Installation is invasive: remove the ULA and RF modulator, disable or remove the original DRAM, connect M1, RESET, IORQ, and RFSH at the Z80, and install the supplied RGB adapter and ribbon cable. The output is digital RGB only, not composite or YUV. Verify board issue, pin 1, wiring, case clearance, display compatibility, and the current installation guide before work.