Deja Vu #05: Капля припоя: Личный опыт использования General Sound для ZX Spectrum

SoundTrack: COMPOSITION BY RLA/CRG       
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(C) BES/PhF
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GENERAL SOUND - PLUG & PLAY? 

You have long heard about a device called General Sound. You also know perfectly well that this thing can play digital music without taking time from the CPU. The purpose of this article is not to once again tell about the capabilities of GS, but to share how I bought, connected, and enjoyed the "cool rulez":)). Don't get me wrong, I'm not some secret agent X-Trade, but an ordinary user of the Scorpion computer. And this opus comes purely from my schizoid consciousness:-). So, let's begin... Somehow I came into some crazy money (in the summer I was doing an internship by the Sea of Japan in a pioneer camp as a counselor). So I thought, why not buy something for my Scorp? My choice fell on the widely advertised General Sound, as the other gadgets were either too expensive or I didn't need them. Now it was time to choose where to order GS from. Although the choice was not large, it existed. "Inforum" was immediately out of the question (all the described actions took place in the fall of '97), as it only resold Scorpion equipment. By the way, "Scorpion" was also out of the question, as I would have to add 15% for shipping on top of a rather hefty price. Logros and Nemo remained. I tried to call the first company twice, but reached an answering machine. I had to dial the number of Skutin Vyacheslav, from whom I ordered GS + 5 disks with software. They asked me for 250 thousand rubles for all this. I sent the money and after 1.5 months (between St. Petersburg and Ussuriysk, you understand, the distance is not small) I received a parcel. My mood immediately lifted and I started singing and dancing:). "You're rejoicing too soon," thought the Almighty and sent me, i.e. GS, a curse. I couldn't understand for a long time why after 5 minutes of playing music GS started howling and eventually froze? I tried everything, but GS kept freezing. After suffering enough, I sent the board back to St. Petersburg and received it back after 1.5 months with the words: "Sorry, manufacturing defect." Well, I am not a grudge holder and forgave everyone. This time I connected GS without problems, as they say - Plug & Play. And I must say, GS played, oh how it played!!! Of course, it's not Gravis Ultra Sound, but it's not Covox either. And when I launched games adapted for GS, I was "completely blown away"! You have to hear what a war is going on in Xecutor and Zynaps, how the grasshoppers chirp in Robin Good, and how the guys beat each other in T.Renegade! Also, I was sent the music editor Riff Tracker v2.9. In my non-professional opinion, this product is quite raw, although you can still compose music on it. Now I would like to address the software developers: "Adapt the software for GS." Remember the old days when many programs got a new sound for AY. It's time to do the same for GS. And grateful descendants will thank you:). It wouldn't hurt to make a sample and effects editor either. By the way, I tried to play VOC files from the PC in Riff - it was laggy, but at least it worked. 

And one more thing. I have both the Kempston Mouse and GS connected at the same time. Surprisingly, everything is O'key! The mouse squeaks, and GS plays music. And if you have a Scorp with ProfROM, then you are really lucky. Load some techno music, click - press Magic. Load Honich and go ahead, restore the disk or copy files. Or you can have some fun. Load Magos, into it X-Player, and then, for example, Art Studio. While you draw, you can listen to Metallica; got tired - no problem, press Magic, choose X-Player, load Pet Shop Boys, and then again Art Studio and continue working, in short - multimedia:)). 

So think for yourselves, decide for yourselves - to have or not to have:). Especially since now St. Petersburg programmers have decided to support GS and new programs will be adapted for this trendy device. And not only St. Petersburg coders are writing for GS. For example, Master Home Computer Group decided to release a version of its logical game Fast Breed for GS, and who knows, maybe others will release versions for GS as well. Well, it seems it's time to wrap up. What to write in conclusion? O-o-o!!! If you decide to sell any devices for Speccy, send one (just one) to my address, and I will write a laudatory ode about this genius gadget. Just kidding - Joke! But seriously, save up your money and buy GS, and you won't regret it (unless, of course, you are a fan of Kobzon and Tolkunova). Just in case, I'm leaving my contact information, if anything - write to me.

e-mail: shuyrik.bes@mailcity.com

Post: 692525 Primorsky Krai, Ussuriysk, Nekrasova St., 156, apt. 40 Belyukov A.N. aka BeS/PhF

Contents of the publication: Deja Vu #05

• Аперативчик - Max
  Detailed instructions on managing the DEJA VU interface, highlighting different input methods and navigation commands. Explanation of the new and old interfaces for enhanced user experience. Discussion on additional features like frame scrolling and music management.
• Аперативчик - Max
  Discussion on supporting machines with more than 128k memory, leading to separate shells for 128k and 256k systems. Testing was mainly done on Scorpion and Profi, with functionality on other models anticipated. Article includes guidance on unpacking source files and insights on using improved algorithms.
• Тема - M.M.A
  This article explores the theory behind digitizing sound on ZX Spectrum, focusing on sampling and quantization processes. It provides practical insights into converting sound files using specific hardware and software. Additionally, it offers methods to enhance sound quality while working within the hardware limitations.
• Theme
  The article discusses the Save Our Scene initiative aimed at uniting Spectrum users and developers to promote software distribution and enhance the scene's development.
• Charter of the Amazing Soft Making Association
  Discussion of the founding charter of the Amazing Soft Making association, detailing its goals, membership criteria, and operational principles.
• Theory of Magazine Creation
  The article provides a detailed guide for aspiring magazine creators, focusing on technical aspects such as interface design, memory management, text formatting, and music integration for ZX Spectrum publications.
• Solder Drop
  The article provides a personal account of purchasing and using the General Sound device for ZX Spectrum, detailing installation and sound performance. It discusses the initial issues encountered and praises the enhanced audio experience in compatible games. The author encourages further software adaptation for the device and reflects on multimedia capabilities with simultaneous hardware use.
• Solder Drop
  The article discusses the capabilities of Sound Forge 4.0c for professional audio processing on PCs, highlighting its extensive features such as sound editing, effects, and restoration tools.
• SOFTWARE
  The article reviews the latest software developments for the ZX Spectrum from Samara, including updates to MAXSOFT SCREEN PACKER, File Commander, and new applications like S-Terminal.
• SOFTWARE - Card!nal
  Review and walkthrough of the logical graphic adventure game 'Operation R.R.' with detailed level instructions. Discussion on game elements like music choice and graphic design. Mentions new coder MAX/CYBERAX/BINARY DIMENSION's involvement.
• SOFTWARE
  Discussion on the current state and evolution of the demoscene, highlighting the rise of 4K intros and upcoming competitions like FUNTOP'98.
• CODING
  Article discusses assembly language coding techniques for optimizing screen scrolling on ZX Spectrum, featuring example code and performance analysis.
• CODING - RLA
  The article explores stack manipulation techniques during second type interrupts for graphical effects on ZX Spectrum. It discusses solutions for preserving data integrity when interrupts disrupt graphical operations. Practical examples are provided to handle stack issues efficiently.
• CODING
  The article describes the MS-PACK packer and its DEPACKER, detailing usage scenarios and providing BASIC and assembly code examples for handling packed files. It emphasizes optimizing performance by allowing unpacking with interrupts enabled and separating the DEPACKER from packed files. Additionally, it includes insights on programming techniques for loading and executing BASIC files on ZX Spectrum.
• CODING
  The article discusses various coding techniques for ZX Spectrum, focusing on sprite rendering, rotation algorithms, and optimization methods to enhance performance.
• ANOTHER WORLD
  Discussion on the evolution of multimedia technologies and their impact on various fields, including education and entertainment. It covers advances in computer hardware and software that have facilitated the integration of audio, video, and text. The article reflects on past developments and speculates on the future of multimedia systems.
• ANOTHER WORLD
  Comparison of PC and Amiga systems highlighting performance, software costs, and user experience with multimedia capabilities.
• Honor Roll
  Interview with PROGRESS discusses their creative journey on ZX Spectrum and AMIGA, addressing challenges in demomaking and the current state of the scene.
• Honor Roll
  The article details the activities and future projects of the Eternity Industry team, based in Kovrov, including successful releases and collaborations with other groups.
• Honor Roll
  Discussion of the Artcomp'98 festival, focusing on its mail-in format and guidelines for various competitions, including demo, graphics, and music categories.
• Honor Roll
  The article provides a glossary of terms used in the demo scene, explaining roles such as musician, coder, and graphician, as well as different types of demos and effects. It serves as a useful resource for understanding the terminology and dynamics of the community. This is a descriptive piece aimed at educating readers about the jargon of the demo scene.
• Honor Roll
  The article discusses the issues with mouse support in various ZX Spectrum magazines and the frustrations of users when encountering compatibility problems. It critiques developers for not adhering to standards, leading to poor user experiences. The author expresses the importance of consistent improvements in software for the ZX Spectrum community.
• Honor Board
  The article discusses the process of creating tricolor images for ZX Spectrum using Photoshop and a simplified approach. It outlines how to divide an image into RGB channels and convert them for use on the Spectrum. Additionally, it provides tips on how to manage the files for optimal results.
• Honor Roll
  The article discusses the comparison and perspectives on various computer systems, particularly emphasizing the strengths of AMIGA over PC and advocating for appreciation of all machines.
• Seven and a Half
  Article discusses the humorous absurdities and peculiarities of military training and academia, blending satire with real anecdotes and witty observations.
• Seven and a Half
  The article provides a satirical manual on programming methodologies, mocking the rigidity of formal programming practices and advocating for a more creative approach to coding.
• Seven and a Half
  Instructions on safe sex practices, including guidelines on eligibility, preparation, and actions during and after the sexual session, along with handling emergency situations.
• Seven and a Half
  The article discusses a call for a talented artist in Krasnodar for a ZX Spectrum group, raises concerns about the unethical practices of Scorpion regarding software rights, and critiques a video review of E'97.
• Seven and a Half
  The article 'Семь и 1/2' narrates a humorous picnic adventure involving the editorial team of Deja Vu, highlighting their camaraderie and mishaps while preparing a barbecue.
• Trial of the Pen
  The article is a humorous take on the fictional adventures of Winnie the Pooh as he interacts with computers and friends, discussing the absurdities of technology and daily life.
• First Pen
  The article discusses the new section in Deja Vu dedicated to fantasy and science fiction literature, featuring book reviews and reader participation in content creation.
• Advertisement
  The article is an advertisement section from Deja Vu #05, promoting collaborations with designers and musicians for future issues, and offering various software and hardware for ZX Spectrum.
• News
  The article announces the launch of a new magazine, AMIGA RULES, focused on the AMIGA computer, addressing the lack of quality Russian-language publications. It aims to provide information on programming, hardware, software, and gaming, while fostering a community among AMIGA enthusiasts. The magazine will include contributions from readers and regular updates on the AMIGA scene.