Subj : X16 alternative (sorta)
To   : Dennisk
From : Lovecraft
Date : Tue Aug 26 2025 02:37:45

  Re: New Members
  By: Dennisk to nelgin on Sun Apr 13 2025 04:47:03

 > I missed that video.  The X16 is something I'm kind of interested in
 > getting, but its hard to justify the expenditure, and the missus certaintly
 > wouldn't appreciate another computer to add to my collection.  But I *DO*
 > want to play around with it.
Hey there!
I'm sure you already know about the Commander X16 emulator -- if not though, check it out at http://x-16.com

The X-16 is pricey, that's true, and even pricier if you want to get the ESP32 Wifi Network Card for it to get onto telnet services and BBS's on the 'net.

BUT, if you want some 6502 retro computing fun check out the Olimex neo6502 tiny pc. It's far less expensive and emulates an Apple //e or you can put another firmware into it that has it behave like a Commodore64 crossed with a BBC Micro. It's pretty fun and has network wifi available for it via Olimex pretty cheap.

Another alternative that isn't pricey but VERY capable is the Agon Light 2 -- though instead of using a 6502 chip, it is Z80 based using the newer ez80 chip. There are several varieties of the Agon Light, all much less expensive than the Commander X16. I really like it.

And then there is the new version of the Commander x16 likely comming out next year that is supposed ot bring the price down compared to the currently available dev boards.

Have fun scratching that retro itch!
--Lovecraft

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