Sooo... essentially he's a marketer? Reminder: Caleco Chameleon didn't fail because it didn't have marketers, it had too many of them. It failed because there was no engineering behind it. A mere product idea without an actual product.
Hell YEAH! I'd LOVE one of these things! Really finding the current trend of relaunching retro computers and consoles fascinating. If I could have a plug and play version of the C64 with HDMI output, I'd be a very happy chap indeed.
Think I'm like you, I'd rather have the real thing.I'm also sad to see that C64s are being ruined to get the SID chip out. THe number of C64s on ebay which say No SID is increasing and becoming the norm.
There's the new and well reviewed SwinSID Ultimate (SID clone) which may take the pressure off a bit. I plan to use one in my homebrew computer, if it'll operate in a 2MHz system. I promise I won't break any '64's in the effort.
Moe Bius The twist is that almost every aspect of the SID chip can be emulated brilliantly but for the filter. I don't know why but that's just so. Most of the time nobody would notice but occasionally they do.
It could be based on FPGAs, like that Mega SG console, which is supposed to be super accurate, far more so than any emulator. That's how they'd get two SIDs into a $150 unit.
I think it’s funny how The C64 project is beloved but when commodore made keyboard style windows 7 PC’s in 2011 they flopped. I still think a SFF pc stylized as a micro would be cool
I think it would be great for people like me, who doesn't grow when that beauty was real famous, i was born in 1989 Costa Rica, and i never heard of Commodore 64 until recent years. If i can i will support the project, cause i would like to see that by myself. Greetings from Costa Rica by the way and keep the good work.
This could be great! C64's are getting to be hard to find for a good price. If it's a faithful remake I would almost have one of these than an original with 30+ year old capacitors.
I just checked the Indiegogo page for this, and it's stated that the computer's just an ARM SOC running an emulator instead of an FPGA, so it may as well just be a Raspberry Pi in a C64 case. And the funny thing is, the creator of the computer seems more interested about pushing this platformer (that they insist is "cute" for some reason, that just makes me think "I'd rather play The Great Giana Sisters on real hardware"), than the computer itself.
I really want the keyboard version of this and the handheld spectrum . I wouldn't mind getting the handheld 64 also but only if I can get a real c64 beforehand.
Yeah well good luck sourcing those " multiple Sid chips".. they are highly sought after, in the modular synth scene, but they are barely found without scrapping a working c64. I don't believe they will use multiple real sids, most likely just a mcu programmed to emulate them.
Got to disagree. NOT totally useless. C64 emulation is as perfect as it's ever going to be. Couple that with the configuration liberties afforded by emulation and you get something that has a very good focus and appeal. Only purists have problems with emulation. Everyone else will be delighted with such a system!
The 64 solves the main "modern" C64 problems: video output (scaling delays), power supply and degrading game media. But emulation as a choice seems a bit cheap... There are real hardware implementations of C64 out there, for example Ultimate-64. It resolves the same problems, but requires an old C64 and a bit assembling. Ultimate-64 also supports original joysticks, which I say is a big plus. I'd take the Ultimate-64 any time, real C64 donors are still highly available.
It does not have 9-pin joystick ports so you won't get the proper C64 experience. Instead, there is USB. I am entirely convinced that it is running emulation. For all we know that could be a run-of-the-mill Raspberry Pi in there. And they have not said anything about what kind of keyboard it is going to have. The prototype seems to have a genuine old one - not a replica. Would you pay $150 for a Raspberry Pi and a C64 keyboard?
The 64 prototype they show is clearly using an original C64 keyboard, and it will be difficult to get new custom-designed keyboards made matching the original's key shape and mechanical feel... so if this thing actually reaches production, I'm sure it will be using some kind of Cherry MX keyboard that is similar to but not exactly the same as the original C64 keyboard, just like the PC-based C64x did.
+vwestlife The case is a C64 modded case too. The back view is not shown anytime. I would find more ethic if they just promoted the SX64 and refunded to donors supporting the larger one.
Seems they have announced it will be using some kind of ARM chipset to emulate the C64 with software rather than hardware. It also will not support original cartridges at first, that seems to be a later goal. So many are saying it is basically a Raspberry Pi in a custom casing. I would tend to agree, and I already got that... so, I will probably not be going for this any time soon. I would rather see something that makes it possible to connect C64 stuff like cartridges, the 1541 disk station or the tape station for the C64, to the Raspberry Pi or other devices with USB ports.
This would be really good for people who aren't necessarily C64 enthusiasts, but want to play C64 games on some form of C64 hardware. It's like the Neo Geo X. I've played some C64 games online and I think the games are fun and addictive as hell, so a console to play them on would be pretty fun to own, and while I also believe in owning the original hardware for gaming, I'd rather go for the 64 over a real C64 just cus it'd be more simple to get started and playing games. For ppl who already own a functioning C64, there's no reason to go for this, like you said.
I just miss the days of playing on the Commodore 64... I still have one but its usually not hooked up. Perhaps it time to get it up and running, I have been thinking of doing some of my videos on some of my favorite games!
Nice vid. Im a Commodore collector and seller. Im really on the fence about this one. Kinda tempted but yeh essentially it is an emulator and im not sure the cart port is "standard". hmmm tough call this one.
I might get it if it's easy on the power requirements, and if it takes the 1541 ultimate 2. This seems like the perfect machine to mod into a laptop type device, and for the pricetag, it won't break the bank, so I'm not too worried about breaking it. If however it doesn't have these features, my money is off the table. If they offer a case-only option, then I'm right on that. I like the compact formfactor, and it would be trivial to put a raspberry Pi in that case, together with an SSD, with everything released on the c64 ever. I'm also quite skeptical about how they are going to do keyboard manufacturing. THe distinct c64 feel isn't something you can replace with the run of the mill Cherry MX red variety. Ofcourse nothing beats the real thing. I have several breadbin models that get regular maintenance and use, and I'm more than happy with those. In the end, we' ll just have to wait and see what it turns out to be. Let's just hope it's not an ouya or a Jag in the Box. Cheers!
Nice sharp... background. DTV is emulation - in hardware but still emulation - and it has its drawbacks. There's secrecy because they haven't actually done anything (but a model), there's only plans.
The64 would be interesting if you could connect real C64 hardware like cartridges, datasette, disk drives, - so it's just a emulation box, wich is okay for the "new gamer generation" but no real replacement for the original C64 hardware. It's more like a NES Mini with the option to load own disk images..
It can be hacked to attach a 1541 disk drive and keyboard, and possible even a cartridge port. Google it, there are websites out there where you can get this sort of stuff.
Is this the same company that's releasing the 'officially licensed' Mini C64? I really want to see what's inside it, and how effectively they'e copied the SID.
Hey Nerd, (i always call you nerd because i don't know your name :D) i saw the kickstarter video too, and one thing leave me puzzled... the supported joystick will be usb? As i already bought a C64X (but unlucky the keyb blown up :D) maybe i will buy this. Ah.... today i received my new t-shirt with C64 logo :D
150 bucks would be alright if this was using FPGA and not ARM CPU and software emulation. All I want is a new C64 with HDMI output, expanded functions (for example a GUI overlay for extras like creating easier TAP dumps of Datasette games and D64 Floppy images), also Stereo SID on/off and the option to use a standard AC adapter as Power supply. So far the C64 Reloaded is the only considerable option for me… and that shit is expensive as heck and always sold out >_>
C64x was exactly the same - an ITX board shoved in a breadbin-style case with somewhat poor cooling. They even had some linux distro with a themed UI and a "64 mode" that was just booting into an emulator. Only after that initial run did they switch to selling just the cases.
Oh to me the main issue with many of these is not what it is, but whether there's any honesty and transparency from the manufacturer. And that is definitely what's lacking here. I may personally find software emulation systems in retro styled boxes rather useless, but that's everyone's individual choice to make.
Oh yeah, that's a common thing with many kickstarter type campaigns, especially the indiegogo ones. There is another one of these i approve of though - somebody found the 64C's original mould, and were raising money to press new cases with it. That's for people who currently own a damaged machine and want to restore it back to perfect condition, and with plastic that doesn't yellow.
I can actually see a market in emulated systems. We have a skewed perspective in a way, we are enthusiasts, we majorly own the original systems and we know what's good and unique about them. But there's a large class of people who owned one in their childhood, completely forgot about it, and really don't care, but their spouse could make them a nice throwback present. No fuss, no in depth knowledge necessary, no wondering whether it will actually work or how much repair and upkeep is needed. Gifted to the people that will appreciate the memory and turn it on once for fun and never again. I'm actually glad real systems don't get wasted on these people. Its just that these systems often get made in the worst way possible, like they don't even match up to well known open source emulators. Disappointing. Scammy, yes.
Of course a C64 is affordable, very much so. I could find you several links right now to machines on ebay, either just the units themselves, or full setups with loads of extras. One of the most affordable machines going...i'm not sure why you think it isn't ?
Ironlord2015 I bought one before some days without power supply or accessories and paid 60 euros it was the cheapest i could score at an auction that wasn't cheap for me now i have to buy a 15VA transformer and blah blah to build a tape emulator so not cheap
Jeri Elsworth created the DTV...
+RetroMMA In technical terms, correct. It was Darren who came up with the concept.
+RetroMMA twitter.com/jeriellsworth/status/721485506047938560
Sooo... essentially he's a marketer? Reminder: Caleco Chameleon didn't fail because it didn't have marketers, it had too many of them. It failed because there was no engineering behind it. A mere product idea without an actual product.
That's right, it was Jeri. As stated on the Wikipedia article about C64 DTV: "The circuitry of the C64DTV was designed by Jeri Ellsworth ..."
Hell YEAH! I'd LOVE one of these things! Really finding the current trend of relaunching retro computers and consoles fascinating. If I could have a plug and play version of the C64 with HDMI output, I'd be a very happy chap indeed.
Great info video on "The 64", kinda want to have one now!
The background music choice was spot on. Robocop theme, by Jonathan Dunn gives me instant nostalgia!
I am interrested.
Never had one. I am quite interrested to see just what a 64 can do.
Don't forget about the Mega65!
I love the style of your videos for some reason. Great content and production!!!!!! Thanks keep up the great work.
Think I'm like you, I'd rather have the real thing.I'm also sad to see that C64s are being ruined to get the SID chip out. THe number of C64s on ebay which say No SID is increasing and becoming the norm.
There's the new and well reviewed SwinSID Ultimate (SID clone) which may take the pressure off a bit. I plan to use one in my homebrew computer, if it'll operate in a 2MHz system. I promise I won't break any '64's in the effort.
This is a legitimate concern as long as no one is manufacturing new SIDs.
Moe Bius The twist is that almost every aspect of the SID chip can be emulated brilliantly but for the filter. I don't know why but that's just so. Most of the time nobody would notice but occasionally they do.
Duncan Gunn yes, the SSU is a legitimate viable option. they did a fantastic job with it. the output is disecrnably lower though.
Can't for the day when we can say "No Commodore C64's were harmed during sound testing." tsk tsk
What about the Commodore 64 reloaded?
It could be based on FPGAs, like that Mega SG console, which is supposed to be super accurate, far more so than any emulator. That's how they'd get two SIDs into a $150 unit.
You mentioned it briefly but what are your thoughts on the Spectrum handheld?
big fan mate . its just dawned on me that you sound like jason from the gadget show :)
Re: multiple SID, they're not going to use actual SIDs, they're most likely emulating them in the FPGA like in the DTV.
I think this sounds awesome
I'd like something like this but with the Apple ii..
RED D I am working on that
Go Jeri! Hat's off MassDaBator!
I like your gibson les paul in the background.
I think it’s funny how The C64 project is beloved but when commodore made keyboard style windows 7 PC’s in 2011 they flopped. I still think a SFF pc stylized as a micro would be cool
"At the core of THE 64 is a low cost, high power ARM Cortex SoC". This is a quote from their Indiegogo page; it's a Raspberry Pi in a fancy case.
I'm definitely getting one if they actually get them out to the public.
looks like a raspberry pi inside a C64 case keyboard , awesome
It would be even more appealing if it had Midi I/O capabilities and could also be used as a standard computer usb keyboard.
I think it would be great for people like me, who doesn't grow when that beauty was real famous, i was born in 1989 Costa Rica, and i never heard of Commodore 64 until recent years. If i can i will support the project, cause i would like to see that by myself. Greetings from Costa Rica by the way and keep the good work.
I don't quite get all the "real chips rather than emulation" purist craze. Last time I looked VICE was close to the real thing as dammit.
This could be great! C64's are getting to be hard to find for a good price. If it's a faithful remake I would almost have one of these than an original with 30+ year old capacitors.
I just checked the Indiegogo page for this, and it's stated that the computer's just an ARM SOC running an emulator instead of an FPGA, so it may as well just be a Raspberry Pi in a C64 case. And the funny thing is, the creator of the computer seems more interested about pushing this platformer (that they insist is "cute" for some reason, that just makes me think "I'd rather play The Great Giana Sisters on real hardware"), than the computer itself.
I really want the keyboard version of this and the handheld spectrum . I wouldn't mind getting the handheld 64 also but only if I can get a real c64 beforehand.
Yeah well good luck sourcing those " multiple Sid chips".. they are highly sought after, in the modular synth scene, but they are barely found without scrapping a working c64. I don't believe they will use multiple real sids, most likely just a mcu programmed to emulate them.
It's just an emulator running on an ARM SoC. Totally useless.
Got to disagree. NOT totally useless. C64 emulation is as perfect as it's ever going to be. Couple that with the configuration liberties afforded by emulation and you get something that has a very good focus and appeal. Only purists have problems with emulation. Everyone else will be delighted with such a system!
The 64 solves the main "modern" C64 problems: video output (scaling delays), power supply and degrading game media. But emulation as a choice seems a bit cheap... There are real hardware implementations of C64 out there, for example Ultimate-64. It resolves the same problems, but requires an old C64 and a bit assembling. Ultimate-64 also supports original joysticks, which I say is a big plus. I'd take the Ultimate-64 any time, real C64 donors are still highly available.
64SX looks awesome :)
So it's just another quick cash grab from nostalgic middle aged men. Outrageous!!!
Nothing wrong with that, one day you'll be a middle ages guy too, and will probably look back fondly at your era. I certainly do! ;)
Great video
It does not have 9-pin joystick ports so you won't get the proper C64 experience. Instead, there is USB.
I am entirely convinced that it is running emulation. For all we know that could be a run-of-the-mill Raspberry Pi in there. And they have not said anything about what kind of keyboard it is going to have. The prototype seems to have a genuine old one - not a replica.
Would you pay $150 for a Raspberry Pi and a C64 keyboard?
The 64 prototype they show is clearly using an original C64 keyboard, and it will be difficult to get new custom-designed keyboards made matching the original's key shape and mechanical feel... so if this thing actually reaches production, I'm sure it will be using some kind of Cherry MX keyboard that is similar to but not exactly the same as the original C64 keyboard, just like the PC-based C64x did.
+vwestlife Did you notice how quickly the keyboard shots were panned over?
+vwestlife The case is a C64 modded case too. The back view is not shown anytime. I would find more ethic if they just promoted the SX64 and refunded to donors supporting the larger one.
Not nearly enough info for this, looks risky!
Seems they have announced it will be using some kind of ARM chipset to emulate the C64 with software rather than hardware. It also will not support original cartridges at first, that seems to be a later goal.
So many are saying it is basically a Raspberry Pi in a custom casing. I would tend to agree, and I already got that... so, I will probably not be going for this any time soon. I would rather see something that makes it possible to connect C64 stuff like cartridges, the 1541 disk station or the tape station for the C64, to the Raspberry Pi or other devices with USB ports.
This would be really good for people who aren't necessarily C64 enthusiasts, but want to play C64 games on some form of C64 hardware. It's like the Neo Geo X. I've played some C64 games online and I think the games are fun and addictive as hell, so a console to play them on would be pretty fun to own, and while I also believe in owning the original hardware for gaming, I'd rather go for the 64 over a real C64 just cus it'd be more simple to get started and playing games. For ppl who already own a functioning C64, there's no reason to go for this, like you said.
There's no reason for other people either. It's a software emulation. Just install an emulator on whatever device you want and you're set.
cazzozzo
Also true. Still would be cool to have as long as it's a solid product
I just miss the days of playing on the Commodore 64... I still have one but its usually not hooked up. Perhaps it time to get it up and running, I have been thinking of doing some of my videos on some of my favorite games!
Nice vid. Im a Commodore collector and seller. Im really on the fence about this one. Kinda tempted but yeh essentially it is an emulator and im not sure the cart port is "standard". hmmm tough call this one.
When it comes to the Commodore 64, I'm more interested in the DEMOSCENE aspect of it than anything else.
I'm feeling left out they done the speccy now the Commodore , I had an Amstrad cpc464 Damn it I like nostalgia where's my retro computer
I might get it if it's easy on the power requirements, and if it takes the 1541 ultimate 2. This seems like the perfect machine to mod into a laptop type device, and for the pricetag, it won't break the bank, so I'm not too worried about breaking it. If however it doesn't have these features, my money is off the table.
If they offer a case-only option, then I'm right on that. I like the compact formfactor, and it would be trivial to put a raspberry Pi in that case, together with an SSD, with everything released on the c64 ever.
I'm also quite skeptical about how they are going to do keyboard manufacturing. THe distinct c64 feel isn't something you can replace with the run of the mill Cherry MX red variety.
Ofcourse nothing beats the real thing. I have several breadbin models that get regular maintenance and use, and I'm more than happy with those. In the end, we' ll just have to wait and see what it turns out to be. Let's just hope it's not an ouya or a Jag in the Box.
Cheers!
I personally wouldn't trust a campaign that claims it'll be ready to ship in December without showing a working prototype.
Nice sharp... background.
DTV is emulation - in hardware but still emulation - and it has its drawbacks.
There's secrecy because they haven't actually done anything (but a model), there's only plans.
Thought you had a black eye for a minute :O
Does it have a modem or lan? You could go on boards and chat rooms back in the day. I'm sure their would be a community.
Fpga is going to be used. It’s getting so cheap to use them
Has this product actually been released yet, or not?
yes they cannot (c) a number like thats why cpus stopped being called after 686 ect
The64 would be interesting if you could connect real C64 hardware like cartridges, datasette, disk drives, - so it's just a emulation box, wich is okay for the "new gamer generation" but no real replacement for the original C64 hardware. It's more like a NES Mini with the option to load own disk images..
It can be hacked to attach a 1541 disk drive and keyboard, and possible even a cartridge port. Google it, there are websites out there where you can get this sort of stuff.
Find a C64 for $30 on ebay, then get a 1541 Ultimate II cart. Thats the easiest way to have every thing commodore
good luck finding one with a SID
I have 2 and neither have malfunctioning SIDs. I don't understand.
64 for 30 on ebay? that's not happening.
Will guess this work 3 years down
Wait. The desktop one is just a re cased commodore 64!
Meh, I prefer to just use VICE or CCS64.
Is this the same company that's releasing the 'officially licensed' Mini C64? I really want to see what's inside it, and how effectively they'e copied the SID.
It has no joystick ports ? is there 9 din pin to a USB adapter?
I ran a bbs for 3 years on my 64 great time
+Scott Wilson Awesome! What was it called?
I can't remember the program was so long ago haha was on a 300 baud pocket modem
+Scott Wilson
Color64 perhaps ;)
Loved me some ANSI Color Graphics.
I do not see a cassette port on that computer.... thats an immediate turnoff for me
Hey Nerd, (i always call you nerd because i don't know your name :D) i saw the kickstarter video too, and one thing leave me puzzled... the supported joystick will be usb? As i already bought a C64X (but unlucky the keyb blown up :D) maybe i will buy this. Ah.... today i received my new t-shirt with C64 logo :D
Damn that is one fine head of hair!
They haven't confirmed SID chips, in fact they are pretty non-committal.
150 bucks would be alright if this was using FPGA and not ARM CPU and software emulation. All I want is a new C64 with HDMI output, expanded functions (for example a GUI overlay for extras like creating easier TAP dumps of Datasette games and D64 Floppy images), also Stereo SID on/off and the option to use a standard AC adapter as Power supply. So far the C64 Reloaded is the only considerable option for me… and that shit is expensive as heck and always sold out >_>
Forget about this The64 crap and order one of these - 1541ultimate.net/content/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=74&catid=9
Awww yiissssss!!! This is perfect!! Thank you kind Sir or Lady :D
The C64 and Amiga left positive memories in me but hardware emulators (like CCS64 and WinUAE) enough for me. I do not want these computers anymore...
Something s different --- ahh -- the specs are gone...
LOL the zx spectrum next was funded in 2-3 days!! why the hardware is all ready made!!
Any updates?
Nope.
Wait. Is it the Commodore 64C?
it'll be a raspberry pi with an emulator :P
Looks like yet another scam targetting people's nostalia over a plastic case design. C64x all over again...
You're not being fair. With C64x, people at least knew what they got, a keyboard computer case. Here, they expect you to pay up for a cat in a poke.
C64x was exactly the same - an ITX board shoved in a breadbin-style case with somewhat poor cooling. They even had some linux distro with a themed UI and a "64 mode" that was just booting into an emulator. Only after that initial run did they switch to selling just the cases.
Oh to me the main issue with many of these is not what it is, but whether there's any honesty and transparency from the manufacturer. And that is definitely what's lacking here. I may personally find software emulation systems in retro styled boxes rather useless, but that's everyone's individual choice to make.
Oh yeah, that's a common thing with many kickstarter type campaigns, especially the indiegogo ones. There is another one of these i approve of though - somebody found the 64C's original mould, and were raising money to press new cases with it. That's for people who currently own a damaged machine and want to restore it back to perfect condition, and with plastic that doesn't yellow.
I can actually see a market in emulated systems. We have a skewed perspective in a way, we are enthusiasts, we majorly own the original systems and we know what's good and unique about them. But there's a large class of people who owned one in their childhood, completely forgot about it, and really don't care, but their spouse could make them a nice throwback present. No fuss, no in depth knowledge necessary, no wondering whether it will actually work or how much repair and upkeep is needed. Gifted to the people that will appreciate the memory and turn it on once for fun and never again. I'm actually glad real systems don't get wasted on these people.
Its just that these systems often get made in the worst way possible, like they don't even match up to well known open source emulators. Disappointing. Scammy, yes.
Commodore 64 has better fun games than the Atari Jaguar.
yeah, no, this is either a scam, an ARM SoC, or an FPGA. Most likely the ARM SoC. Which would explain the low price and SID chips.
$100,611 USD raised by 435 backers. don't think so.
What if its just built with a raspberry pi
has it ben don jet ????
Nope.
I bet that you already pre ordered one for yourself mr Nostalgia Nerd :)
If I could afford one, I might consider it. But then I'd see the Spectrum Next and buy that instead.
Fair enough. I agree that Spectrum is the winner in terms of look, design and compatibility. Absolutely brilliant!
why bother if you can just get c64
I have 2 original c-64. one c-64 & one c-64c
cool thanks for telling us
Hey, I'm sure he's a proud owner ;)
Yeah it still hasn't come out. Backers have had to contend with the C64 Mini which isn't that bad but certainly not what backers originally paid for.
A c64 is not affordable any more so i hope this will be
Of course a C64 is affordable, very much so. I could find you several links right now to machines on ebay, either just the units themselves, or full setups with loads of extras. One of the most affordable machines going...i'm not sure why you think it isn't ?
Ironlord2015 I bought one before some days without power supply or accessories and paid 60 euros it was the cheapest i could score at an auction that wasn't cheap for me now i have to buy a 15VA transformer and blah blah to build a tape emulator so not cheap
Hey, what the fuck ever happened to this?
What a waste of space
Mate, get to the fucking point. 10 minutes wasted on some off topic rant. This is about the THE C64 ?
Scammer News.. pointless video
pewdiepie!
use your pc, stop buying crap
They're not crap, you're just a PC MASTER RACE NUMPTY!!!
retrogamer33 shudda da.mauf, or ill send ma boys in, now piss off an dont disturb me again