Updated for 2025!
With cynthCART v2, the Commodore 64 becomes a serious instrument—no monitor needed, just pure SID-powered synth action. Created by Paul Slocum, this updated cartridge lets musicians control the C64 like an analog synthesizer using the built-in keyboard or optional piano overlay. Whether it’s for live gigs or home studio sessions, cynthCART v2 delivers expressive sound control in a truly hands-on way.
This new version of cynthCART v2 brings plenty of fresh features: 30 preset patches, real-time effects like arpeggiator, vibrato, tremolo, and portamento, plus analog filter tweaks and envelope shaping. It now supports multiple MIDI interface cartridges—including Datel, Passport, Sequential, and Kerberos—with features like pitch bend, patch changes, and MIDI CC handling. Add a second SID chip and unlock stereo sound with six voices.
It gets better: the software copies itself to RAM, so the cartridge can be pulled after booting. The system can mute the video chip to reduce audio noise—ideal for clean output. Paddle controllers in port 2 offer hands-on filter and pitch control. And for the SID tweakers out there, a built-in hex editor allows advanced editing right from the keyboard.
The cartridge comes boxed with a printed manual and shortcut key guide. Paul Slocum maintains the source code on GitHub, where developers and fans can explore the guts of the synth. For anyone looking to push their Commodore’s sound capabilities further, cynthCART v2 is available directly from Shareware Plus or through eBay.
