Wow, interesting project to make "perfect" AWE64. 😲
I like the looks of the prototype and WaveBlaster header and "real" OPL3.
But I am not a fan of RAM mounted on the back side of the board. Those ICs are quite thick and can interfere with a card in adjacent slot. Why not place those RAM chips on the front side? 😕
And I don't like SMD electrolytic capacitors.
Destroying old AWE64's is... somewhat not pleasant. But it you'll make a better one from it - I have no reason to complain.
AWE64 Value is pretty common and doesn't represent any unique good features for me. AWE32 is better if you ask me. So if I can get another AWE64 Value, rip chip out and put it onto new board, which will make it better - I'm all for it. And I'll definitely pick one.
hard1k wrote:
We've used the MIDI-OUT port from the gameport to run the waveblaster header. I don't think it would run two devices connected in parallel, but correct me if I'm wrong here.
As far as I know, you need only to connect MIDI OUT to the synth, you don't need MIDI IN. And you can connect both WaveBlaster and external port to the same source (so those just will play the same stuff). Of course, external port will require additional buffering and protection, but it is pretty simple. I'm doing it in my FMonster.
Some comments on questionnaire.
Are you interested in replacing the 1 MiB WaveROM?
As far as I know, you can download any soundbank in that RAM that is already installed to "replace" stock ROM. So why bother with replacing ROM? 😕
I think one, opposite from the connector is enough. But, probably, we can find a standoff that doesn't require a hole in a board? Like, glued on top of the board with sticky tape? I think it would be easier to find some room for three standoffs of that type to mount WaveBlaster-compatible synth. It is much easier to free part of the board from components than from traces.
And yes, I'm in, I want one.
I'll get kit or bare board if there will be such an option.