"The Commodore 64, dormant for three decades, has returned, boasting enhanced capabilities, predominantly geared towards chiptune music creators."
Get ready for a blast from the past, as the iconic Commodore 64 is making a comeback in 2025. The new version, called the Commodore 64 Ultimate, is a faithful hardware recreation of the original C64, with modern enhancements to cater to today's computing needs[1][2][5].
The heart of the Commodore 64 Ultimate is an AMD Xilinx Artix-7 FPGA chipset, which replicates the original motherboard and chipset with pinpoint accuracy[1][2][5]. This ensures that the new C64 delivers the same authentic experience as its 1980s counterpart.
Key Features
The Commodore 64 Ultimate comes packed with features that blend the best of the past with the conveniences of the present.
Hardware and Performance
- The AMD Xilinx Artix-7 FPGA chipset provides exact hardware replication.
- 128MB DDR2 RAM and 16MB flash memory—a significant upgrade from the original 64 KB RAM.
- HDMI output for modern monitors, while retaining the original cartridge slot and DIN-8 connectors.
- USB ports (A and C types) for keyboards and other devices.
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity for modern network capabilities.
- Compatibility with over 99% of original C64 software and hardware peripherals[1][2][4][5].
Variants and Design
The Commodore 64 Ultimate is available in three variants:
- Basic Beige: A classic design that stays true to the original beige colour scheme.
- Starlight Edition: A transparent case with RGB LED lighting that can synchronize with music.
- Founders Edition: A premium translucent amber case with gold backlighting, gold badges, holographic serial numbers, a certificate of authenticity with a golden seal, and collectible items like a gold pendant and commemorative T-shirt.
Additional Features
- The keyboard uses the world's first transparent PCB with SID chip-reactive LEDs on the case, keyboard, and power light.
- The package includes a USB stick preloaded with 50 retro games and demos, including a new Jupiter Lander game.
- A user-friendly main menu interface allows for easy customization.
Warranty and Production
- The Commodore 64 Ultimate comes with a 1-year limited warranty.
- Manufactured from proven designs with quality components sourced from trusted partners since the early Apple devices era.
- Sales are supported regardless of the final acquisition outcomes due to established contracts.
The Commodore 64 Ultimate marks the first official new Commodore 64 computer hardware in over 30 years and aims to combine nostalgia with modern conveniences for retro computing enthusiasts[1][2][4][5].
The Legacy of the Commodore 64
The Commodore 64 was a best-selling home computer from 1982, known for its distinctive 'chiptune' sound, thanks to the unique SID chip[3]. This chip, with its four waveforms and a multi-mode filter, gave the C64 an edge in the world of music, with composers like Chris Huelsbeck creating soundtracks for video games using it.
The new Commodore 64 retains the original cartridge slot and DIN-8 connectors, ensuring that users can enjoy the same compatibility as the original model.
Pricing
The prices for the new Commodore 64 are as follows:
- $299 for the Basic model.
- £349 for the Starlight Edition.
- $499 for the Founders Edition, limited to 6,400 units.
For more information about the new Commodore 64 Ultimate, visit reborn Commodore.net.
[1] https://www.reborncommodore.com/ [2] https://www.techradar.com/news/commodore-64-ultimate-is-a-hardware-based-recreation-of-the-classic-computer [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Commodore_64#Technical_specifications [4] https://www.pcgamer.com/commodore-64-ultimate-announced-as-hardware-based-recreation-of-1980s-classic/ [5] https://www.engadget.com/commodore-64-ultimate-is-a-hardware-based-recreation-of-the-classic-computer-032419256.html
The Commodore 64 Ultimate, with its hardware replication using an AMD Xilinx Artix-7 FPGA chipset, is a modern gadget that merges the legendary technology of the past with contemporary performance enhancements. This technology-advanced device features 128MB DDR2 RAM, HDMI output, USB ports, Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, and compatibility with over 99% of original C64 software and hardware peripherals. With its sleek design variants and additional features, this gadget promises to deliver an authentic, nostalgic experience to retro computing enthusiasts.
