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TRS-80 Now Supports MIDI!

American favorite, the Radio Shack TRS-80, was adored nationwide. Yet, it had one notable absence - MIDI capability. Given its time of release, this omission was not unusual. Still, Michael Kenton, a passionate hobbyist, found a novel solution to integrate MIDI into the TRS-80.

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Home computer favorite among many Americans, the Radio Shack TRS-80, was missing a key feature:...
Home computer favorite among many Americans, the Radio Shack TRS-80, was missing a key feature: MIDI. Despite the vintage period of its release, this omission wasn't unexpected. Notably, [Michael J. Borland] worked on developing a MIDI adapter for the TRS-80, a solution that would subsequently enhance the device's capabilities.

Crank Up the Tune with the TRS-80's MIDI Makeover 🎶🎮

TRS-80 Now Supports MIDI!

The Radio Shack TRS-80 was a beloved relic of the '80s, but it had one glaring omission - MIDI compatibility. Fast forward to today and Michael Wessel has stepped up to rectify this with the creation of the MIDI/80 - a soundcard and MIDI interface for this vintage wonder.

At the heart of this build beats the BluePill STM32F103C8T6 microcontroller, pumping away at a whopping 75 MHz. Slots found in the TRS-80's expansion port are filled by the microcontroller, which acts as the middleman, communicating with the computer and translating MIDI signals as necessary. For a smoother connection, you can upgrade the MIDI ports using an Adafruit breakout module, offering MIDI IN and OUT slots with no fuss about MIDI Thru.

The MIDI/80 can generate General MIDI sounds in two ways: by plugging a Waveblaster sound module into the suitable header, or by connecting a Roland Sound Canvas or similar device to the MIDI/80's MIDI Out socket. You'll be pleased to know that a whole new MIDI ecosystem is springing up around this nifty gadget, complete with a TRS-80 drum tracker and synthesizer program, offering a bunch of demo songs to get you started. With compatibility that covers the TRS-80 Model I, III, and 4, this could be the start of a beautiful reunion between these old machines and modern music producers.

So, will the TRS-80 charm its way back into the hearts of the tracker and chiptune communities? Only time will tell, but in the meantime, we've got the deets if you fancy a blast from the past! 🎡🚀🔩

P.S.

MIDI interfaces for vintage computers like the TRS-80 enable users to link MIDI devices to the computer, providing control over musical instruments or recording software. These interfaces typically support MIDI protocol versions, offer connectivity options, and might include software support for sequencing or editing MIDI data. Delving deeper into the world of vintage computing is your ticket to uncovering specific MIDI interfaces and their workings for the TRS-80 model.

The MIDI/80, a soundcard and MIDI interface for the Radio Shack TRS-80, grew from the need to address its lack of MIDI compatibility. This innovative gadget, falling under the category of modern technology, also qualifies as one of the latest hardware gadgets, bridging the gap between the vintage TRS-80 and today's MIDI devices.

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