Tony P. has returned with a new hardware release for the Commodore 64: the STSID C64 project. Some may recognize his name from 2018, when he worked on the SID XMC, an earlier SID emulation effort. This time, his work moves beyond emulation into a fresh design powered by an ST 8-bit microcontroller, aiming to expand what users can do with their machines.
Key Features
The STSID board provides several practical options for sound and input. It supports stereo or dual SID setups, offering flexibility for those who want more complex audio output. Its dual-pin PWM system uses 5-bit + 5-bit for 10-bit resolution, reducing the need for heavy RC filtering. Beyond audio, the board integrates an X/Y paddle ADC, widening control options for C64 users.
MIDI support is built directly into the hardware, mapped at $D41D and $D41E. This gives musicians reliable in/out functionality without additional adapters. There’s also a wildcard slot at $D41F, designed for small program downloads, firmware updates, and permanent settings storage.
Expanded DIY Possibilities
Tony has kept experimenters in mind. Pad 5 and C with analog can be adapted for extra functions, like connecting a dual SID wire or creating a reset trigger via the Restore key. Holding the key down for two seconds, for example, can pull the C64 reset line low. These design decisions make the board appealing not just to musicians, but also to tinkerers who like to push their hardware further.
Community Access
The STSID C64 project is already gaining discussion on the Lemon64 forums, where users can learn more, exchange ideas, and order their own units. It’s a modern approach to hardware development that still respects the experimental, community-driven spirit of the Commodore scene.
