Rush #01: Virtual Speccy: Community and Technical Insights

User opinions about the ZX-Spectrum emulator from CodeBusters.

RUSH> Not long ago, rumors began to spread quickly across the scene about the appearance of a new ZX-Spectrum emulator from CodeBusters for the Amiga. Its main advantage is undoubtedly the full emulation of the Pentagon, including tracking the refresh and other important nuances. Moreover, it supports TR-dos. It's hard to overestimate the arrival of such a program for both Amiga users and Spectrum enthusiasts. And although these are just the first versions, where not everything is smooth yet, it is already a magnificent step forward. We eagerly await the next versions from RST#7 and MaxI, and for now, through the eyes of Grunge, who has been hunting in fido, we can observe the debates that have erupted there on this matter...

Vladimir Bogdanovitch (2:5090/31.7) In large cities, you can find and check the quality of emulation on the Amiga if you wish. However, one should pay attention to the emulator version number - it's only 0.18b. With such a number, the quality is already quite decent.

John Stuner and Denis Sotchenko: DS> For those who are not in the know - CBSpeccy 0.18b is available on amiganet. JS>> It's buggy compared to the previous one. The loading of hobeta is completely impossible. And about the bug when exiting the emulator, which, as the boosters say, has been fixed - I think it has appeared instead.

Lies and slander :)) I've been running this emulator for about 3 hours and have had NO glitches. I note that it runs alongside other software. Opus4.12, Magellan, Spot are constantly running. ADpro2.5, PPaint7.0 were loaded. GoldEd and TrapDoor are loaded periodically. I don't even mention the small stuff. In the emulator, I've reviewed a bunch of games: both .trd and #$, NO PROBLEM! :)) Moreover, this emulator is already mega cool. Mouse support, a bunch of standards, you can change the joystick view on the fly. And now I'm really thrilled :) I loaded the hit N1 now on ZX - "Kolobok ZOOMII" - super. Haven't you seen it in crappy emulators? And you shouldn't - MEGA SUXX. Tearful scrolls, glitches, and other crappy embellishments. In CBSpeccy 0.18b - MEGA RULEZZ! Just like a real Speccy - 50 fps and other things. In short, CBSpeccy 0.18b - THE BEST! The only thing that didn't work out well was playing Quadrax+ normally. When pressing 2 keys, "lemming" should climb up, but it doesn't want to, even though it should :((

Alex Baskakov (2:5025/38.49) and Denis Sotchenko (2:5020/1301.70) DS> CBSpeccy requires 030/50 for almost full emulation of the Pentagon. To achieve complete emulation, you need to emulate the border and improve the AY a bit. In my estimates, this will increase the CPU requirements by one and a half times. Multicolors already work perfectly, and for non-Pentagon demos, you can manually adjust the INT arrival time relative to the beam on the screen. Besides CBSpeccy (written by Rst7), the NES emulator (written by Titus) works perfectly on 68030/50 as well. However, emulating NES will be more complicated, to put it mildly.

Well, there's no need to mislead people here. Emulating the border is almost a twofold increase in screen memory size. And the emulation of AY there, according to rumors, is the most terrible. Besides, Titus didn't make a Speccy emulator. An emulator like Yudin's is only possible on PPC. Have you seen zsnes0.8 - the SNES emulator on PC? That's right. 60 frames out of sixty + 100% sound on P166.

Misha Pertsovsky (2:5030/727.47) and Anton Noginov (2:5020/1605.667) AN> Allow me to be a bit sarcastic: gentlemen, think about it: to implement a Spectrum at _maximum_ 7 MHz, let's say, a Profi version even at 4 Mb, you need at least (!) 16 Mb of RAM and P166MMX(!!!)

IMHO, everything is fine - after all, we are not talking about converting a ZX program into a PC program (p/p calls to AY -> p/p calls to SB, p/p multiplications -> corresponding command), but about _programmatically emulating the hardware operation_ (ports, processor, screen, etc.), which the more accurately it is done, the slower it is by definition :( AN> Either Intel is such a pathetic processor, or I don't know what.... Sorry, but it's probably the second one..

Denis Sotchenko and Wolf/eTc SP>> 2CBSpeccy/AMIGA users: How do you like the Kempston mouse? It was very convenient to read this newspaper, lounging in a chair with a mouse in hand :)

W: I have nothing to say. You see, people, the Kempston mouse is convenient on the Amiga! Unlike us, on PC.

DS: The mouse in CBSpeccy, by the way, gives a honest 50 fps ;-) It smoothly moves like a native one (which is "passive":)

It seems that everything is not so smooth on ECS:

Crazy DMC and John Stunner: CD>> p.S. By the way, on the Refresh demo, it lagged a bit... But, I think, this is only on the ECS chipset... How about AGA?! The music plays without lags?! JS>> Perfectly. As it should be on an un-turbo Pentagon ;)

Well, I am basically satisfied with such performance... On ECS, only interlaced effects drop out, but everything else is just fine... Even multicolors.

But here's an example of when a person has clearly exaggerated, praising the emulator to the point that it's almost better than a real Speccy 8-)

Sergey Pisarev and DmItRy MaRsUdInOv:

I have already written that everything RULEZZ on AGA. Moreover, I compared it with various Pentiums. 030 and AGA make MMX and 4 mb video cards and crappy ZX emulators. Even the load times are faster. I tested many games that fly through the echo of ZXSpectrum. The only drawback that bothers me is the sound/music quality.

As an example of the coolness of CBSpeccy, I can say: 1) Support for a bunch of formats. 2) Convenient operation and interface. 3) Fast and reliable. 4) Support for ANY video modes including PAL. Do crappy emulators support PAL? And this is the native mode for Speccy. It looks best in PAL, not on SVGA monitors. Although I use MULTISCAN at 640*480: it's even better than on a real Speccy. On a 15-inch SyncMaster15GLi, the picture is just gorgeous. But I still play Kolobok on a TV monitor. Because ZX = PAL. You see, I can EASILY reconnect AMIGA from an SVGA monitor to a TV. 5 seconds. Crappy users see a pathetic square picture when using m$-dos, or they stare at a window in wndz. One crappy emulator from ZX.SPECTRUM wrote: "The quality is better on toilet paper than on a ZX screen." IDIOT! On his crappy screen. When I connect the AMIGA to a TV monitor and load Kolobok2, I see a cool colorful clear NON-square picture of the ZX screen. And 50fps to boot. 5) Mega cool mouse. 6) Mega cool joystick operation. Switching on the fly. 7) Mega cool keyboard. Better than on a real Speccy. Moreover, I can change the key layout - however I like. 8) Real multicolor 9) Real Pentagon screen. 10) Working with the emulator via AMIGA DOS. This is the main plus. Working with m$-dos\wndz is a nightmare for me. Only in extreme cases. Is that enough? This is just a quick overview. Name at least one "+" of all crappy emulators combined against one CBSpeccy. Don't mention AY, everyone knows that. Although don't forget, the emulator is improving. I can bet that in version 060, the AY will be indistinguishable from the real one.

RUSH> Let the virtual Spectrum be no less real than the real one! :-)

Contents of the publication: Rush #01

  • AMIGA NEWS
    Amiga Inc works on Amiga OS 3.5 with enhancements like CD drive and PowerPC support. Split development for M68K and PPC processors. Delayed release to late 1999 or early 2000.
  • AMIGA NEWS
    Description of the 'Fast JPEG 1.10' viewer for Amiga, focusing on its features, installation, and usage. It highlights advantages like fast processing without quality loss and provides user tips. Readers are encouraged to share their software experiences.
  • AMIGA NEWS
    Basic programming for classic Amiga, discussing challenges and sharing knowledge in Amiga coding. Overview of Amiga graphics capabilities and processor features. Introduction to Amiga assembly language specifics.
  • AMIGA NEWS
    Overview of events related to the Amiga platform from early to mid-1998. Highlights include new hardware, software releases, and notable company collaborations. Future updates and developments are scheduled for the next issue.
  • AMIGA NEWS
    Collection of cheats and secrets for classic Amiga games compiled by Postcard Man. Readers encouraged to share their findings on complex games. Selection of tips and level codes provided for various games.
  • AMIGA NEWS
    Discussion of Phase-5's graphics cards and Permedia 2 processor capabilities. Details on Permedia 2's 2D/3D acceleration and compatibility. Mention of GLINT Delta processors and comparison of prices and availability.
  • AMIGA NEWS
    Analysis of Amiga's survival in the 90s, highlighting community efforts and technological advancements. Discussion on hardware improvements and software development. Encouragement for further exploration and learning about the Amiga platform.
  • Spectrum Programming
    Explanation of a fast method for real-time 3D graphics on the ZX Spectrum. Introduces efficient rotation and deformation techniques for 3D objects. Emphasizes improvements over traditional methods with practical examples.
  • Spectrum Programming - Ticklish Jim
    Discussion of combining sound effects with music for Spectrum's AY chip. Examples from development of 'CSC: Deja Vu' and technical challenges faced. Contains practical guide and code examples.
  • Spectrum Programming
    Discussion on byte mirroring and background restoration in ZX Spectrum programming, with examples.
  • Spectrum Programming
    Comprehensive guide for system programmers with practical tips for creating efficient and user-friendly software, including coding techniques, device compatibility, and program testing strategies.
  • Spectrum Programming
    Advanced coding techniques and modern graphics methods for ZX Spectrum. Tips for optimizing graphical procedures and coding on assembly. Useful advice for programmers to improve performance and efficiency.
  • The End
    Reflections on the creation of the first issue of the magazine 'Rush', its goals, audience, and future development.
  • ZX-SOFT - Вячеслав Медноногов
    Development updates on Vyacheslav Mednoy's new game 'Black Raven II', including gameplay changes, new spell introductions, and performance improvements.
  • ZX-SOFT
    Overview of new features in the updated commander from REAL software for ZX Spectrum, including file management, autodetection, and media viewing. Improvements in text, font, and music handling. Questions addressed regarding future updates.
  • ZX-SOFT
    Debate on which demo deserved the top spot at Funtop'98: Forever by DR or Refresh by XTM. Discussions in the demoscene community highlight the clash between technical prowess and conceptual depth. Different opinions reflect on the evolution of demoscene preferences.
  • Authors
    Acknowledgment of contributors and partners in creating Rush magazine. Detailed roles of each author and collaboration insights. Recognition of technical support and media partnerships.
  • Virtual Specky
    Discussion on converting graphics from PC to Spectrum, featuring insights from various experts. Techniques for improving conversion quality and tools like Photoshop are detailed. Emphasis on post-conversion refinement in Spectrum graphics editors.
  • Virtual Speccy
    Discussion on the CBSpeccy emulator for ZX-Spectrum on Amiga, highlighting its features, community opinions, and technical performance. Criticisms and praises for its emulation capabilities, particularly compared to PC emulators. Examination of potential improvements and community debates around version updates.
  • Virtual Speccy
    FAQ on ZX-Spectrum emulation on PC, covering popular emulators and file formats. Instructions for using different emulators and managing file types like Hobeta and TR-DOS. Discussion on Russian ZX-oriented servers and resources for enthusiasts.
  • Introduction
    Introduction to the Rush magazine, emphasizing creativity, progressive scene, and the goal to create a superior information source. The magazine seeks to gather promising groups and offer a unique perspective. Focuses on content and atmosphere, welcoming creators to contribute.
  • Introduction - Grunge
    Introduction to Rush, a new scenemag for Speccy/Amiga enthusiasts, aims to provide quality content and news while encouraging reader feedback.
  • Interview - Konex
    Interview with ANTARES group after FUNTOP-98. Discussion on their demos, challenges, and future plans. Insight into the group's formation and dynamics.
  • Interview - Kvazar, DUX
    Interview with Alexander Seleznev (KVAZAR), discussing his history with computers, the state of the ZX Spectrum scene, and future plans.
  • Interview - Kvazar
    Interview with Vitebsk group POWER on demo 'Crazy Love', development experiences, and future projects.
  • Informatorium
    Exploration of a CD with emulators for various platforms, highlighting Spectrum. Details the content organization and diversity. Concludes with insights from the CD-ROM Project's Spectrum software collection.
  • Informacrium
    Compilation of interesting and useful Internet addresses related to Amiga resources, including magazines, hardware manufacturers, and software companies.
  • Informacrium - Viator
    Overview of existing and upcoming publications on the Amiga platform. Discussion of the availability and distribution challenges for Amiga literature. Appeal for collaboration with new publications.
  • About the Magazine
    Discussion on creating a multi-platform magazine focusing on Spectrum, Amiga, and PC. Emphasis on broader understanding of computer scene. Encourage professionalism and adaptation to changing technology.
  • Parallel Worlds
    Overview of the evolution of Windows OS and PC processors from 1981 to 2000. Development milestones of MS-DOS, Windows, Intel processors, and competition with AMD and Cyrix. Challenges in maintaining compatibility with new processor technologies.
  • Parallel Worlds
    Overview of Macintosh models and their relevance in design and graphics fields, covering prices and specifications from 1997-1998. Discussion includes the evolution of Apple's hardware, notably the PowerMac series, and compares new G3 processors with PC counterparts. It highlights the resurgence of Macintosh post-crisis and its ongoing influence in the market.
  • Development of the Spectrum - Slider
    The article discusses a new graphical extension for the ZX Spectrum that enhances color palettes without increasing resource demands. By using a modified flash signal, new colors are created without interfering with existing software compatibility. The article provides implementation details and addresses practical usage concerns.
  • Development of Spectrum
    Connecting a CDOS modem to the 'Compact-128' computer by addressing keyboard port conflicts. Description of hardware modifications to solve the issue. Solution includes automatic blocking using a transistor inverter.
  • Development of Spectrum - Ars
    Discussion on AZX-Monstrum 512K development, its hardware compatibility, processor options, and potential enhancements in graphics and OS.
  • Development of SPECTRUM
    Discussion of Clive Sinclair's new computer platform, the ZX2000, designed to outperform PCs with enhanced speed, affordability, and battery efficiency.
  • Development of Spectrum - Андрей Савичев
    Examination of the evolution and ongoing relevance of the Z80 processor, and its role in embedded systems. Comparison of Z80 with its successors, highlighting advantages like energy efficiency and command enhancements. Overview of integrated Z80-based CPUs and their peripherals.
  • Advertisement
    This article is an advertisement for Scorpion products including hardware for ZX Spectrum and Amiga software, along with pricing and ordering details.
  • Advertising
    Collection of advertisements for Amiga and ZX Spectrum hardware and software, with contact information for sellers and details about the new Amiga magazine subscription.
  • Advertisement
    Advertisement for X-TRADE's General Sound music board. Includes pricing, technical details, and purchase instructions. Features a FAQ section and compatibility info.
  • Meaning Without Meaning - Viator
    Philosophical reflections on existentialism, immortality, and human destiny. The narrative weaves through stories of ambition, the quest for eternal life, and a utopian downfall. A blend of introspection and speculative fiction.
  • Scene vs Professionals
    Exploration of the demoscene's creativity versus commercial game development. Discussion of potential for professional-quality programs by scene members. Call for collaboration with leading scene groups.
  • Scene Chronicle - Андрей Савичев
    Reflections on ZX Spectrum's enduring appeal, its community's resilience, and its potential resurgence in Russia.
  • Scene Chronology
    Overview of the Rush group's activities, including past projects, current endeavors, and future plans, with emphasis on software development and gaming.
  • Scene Chronicles
    The article discusses various ZX Spectrum scene news, including game releases, demoparties, and updates from developers and teams.
  • Chronicles of the Scene
    The article discusses the FUNTOP'98 international computer art festival held in Moscow, highlighting key events, notable attendees, and the various competitions held during the event.
  • Scene Chronia
    Discussion on Amiga scene development through collaboration, addressing user isolation and promoting network expansion.
  • Shell Management
    Статья описывает управление оболочкой для ZX Spectrum и Amiga, включая клавиши и функции для навигации. Упоминаются особенности работы на Amiga с PAL монитором и предоставляется контакт для поддержки. Также отмечено, что текстовые файлы имеют стандартную MS-DOS кодировку.