Introduction...

The SAM Coupe (A British Z80 based 8-bit micro, released in December 1989) has been my computer of choice for the last 32 years so bringing its sound chip, the Philips SAA1099P, over to the RC2014 and compatible ecosystem was a no-brainer following a recent request to ask if it was possible.

Interface Information...

The SAA1099P soundchip offers 6 sound generators, each can then select from 8 octaves and 256 tones per octave (giving a frequency range of 31Hz to 7.81KHz). Plus two noise generators and two envelope controllers. Each channel has separate volume settings for left and right volume so stereo effects and panning are easily achieved. (In terms of operation the SAA1099P can considered to be very similar to using two AY sound chips, although with a few differences and additions such as stereo volume controls as mentioned.)

Like my other RC2014 interfaces the I/O port can be selected with jumpers to select the port used to avoid clashes with other hardware you have installed, as well as using multiple cards of the same type in your system to increase the number of sound channels.

The soundchip is socketed and tested, with an 8MHz oscillator fitted to drive it at the correct frequency. A standard 3.5mm stereo socket is provided for the audio output.

Optional Extras...

If you're interested in computer audio I've added the option to include issue 11 of "SAM Revival" magazine - the magazine I produce specifically for the quirky, British SAM Coupe computer! This issue was originally released back in 2004, but in 2024 for exhibiting at the 'Synthesized' show at the Centre for Computing History in Cambridge (UK) I revamped the issue giving it a brand new full colour layout, updated some of the articles and had the issue professionally printed. The whole issue is focused on sound on the SAM looking at software and hardware, plus it's bundled with a 19 track audio CD with a selection of music from the SAM Coupe showcasing the SAA1099P soundchip and additional sound hardware.