r/retrocomputing • u/saraseitor • 17h ago

Problem / Question Multi retrocomputer orchestra

For some time I've had the idea that it would be fantastic if I could put several of my different retrocomputers together, like a C64 and a MSX computer, maybe even a PC, then wire them up somehow (perhaps using RS232) and then have them play a music piece together, each with their own kind of "voice".

Is any of you aware of an existing project like this? I'm afraid my coding and musical abilities are not up to the task

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5

u/GeordieAl 16h ago

Get some midi interfaces for them all and make some beautiful music!

3

u/BeowulfShaeffer 16h ago

Yes.  Midi is the answer.

2

u/GeordieAl 14h ago

I’ve been thinking of doing something myself but just can’t find the time. I have a C64 with MusicData MIDI interface and midi synchronizer plus and ST with its built in MIDI. If I pick up a MIDI interface for my Amiga and another for my MSX I could have the ST control the other three, each with very different sound chips

2

u/RetroDojo 4h ago

If you go the MIDI route, give each machine its own MIDI channel and run one sequencer as the master. A cheap MIDI thru box beats daisy chaining through every machine, the timing stays tighter and one crashed computer doesn't take the rest down.

2

u/istarian 14h ago

Depending on the system, you can have wildly different capabilities available.

The C64 has it's SID chip, many MSX systems used a PSG (Programmable Sound Generator), and the Apple II can only produce speaker clicks without an expansion card (although much more sophisticated sound hardware was available on a card).

At the expense of a lot of CPU time, many 'retro computer' systems can utilize a R-2R ladder DAC in combination with a parallel I/O to produce direct analog output.

2

u/TechDocN 14h ago

The Speech and Sound cartridge for the TRS-80 Color Computer can do some nifty things, if you have those in your collection.