Commodore 64 Getting Started & Buying Guide 2023!

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C64 videos from Retro Bits:
• PlastiDip Commodore 64...
• Can this broken Commod... (SX64 Keyboard Repair)
• The Commodore 128 - My...
• How Commodore 64 cartr... (How C64 Cartridges Work)
• This Commodore 1541 hi... (1541 Head Failures)
• Building a NEW Commodo... (1581 Replica)
• SD2IEC - Lightning-Fas...
• 1541 Ultimate II+ for ...
• Ultimate64 / II+ Firmw...
• Transform your Commodo... (JiffyDOS)
• WiModem and WiModem232...
• Sonic the Hedgehog on ...
• Commodore 64 REU and E... (REU & EasyFlash Showcase)
• Commodore 64 on MiSTer... (C64 on MiSTer FPGA)
• A Commodore 64 with… v... (Evo64 Build)
• Commodore 64 / 128 Dia... (Diagnostic Harness)
Featured KZbin Channels for C64 Repair:
/ @morefunmakingit
/ @janbeta
/ @adriansdigitalbasement
Products and Resources Mentioned in this Video:
Ray Carlsen - portcommodore.com/rcarlsen/
Electroware - www.c64psu.com/
Keelog - www.keelog.com/power-supply/#c64
Retro Computer Shack Cables - www.retrocomputershack.com/
A/V Breakout Options:
idoregesz.hu/product/multimed...
github.com/svenpetersen1965/C...
retrorewind.ca/c64-av-adapter
AV2HDMI Mini - amzn.to/3pm8vey
Ultimate 64 - ultimate64.com/
VIC-II Kawari - accentual.com/vicii-kawari/
64JPX - www.64hdd.com/64jpx/64jpx.html
MouSTer - github.com/willyvmm/mouSTer
EasyFlash 3 - skoe.de/easyflash/ef3intro/
Kung-Fu Flash - github.com/KimJorgensen/KungF...
1541 Ultimate II+ - ultimate64.com/
Backbit Pro - store.backbit.io/product/back...
Pi1541 - cbm-pi1541.firebaseapp.com/
SD2IEC:
github.com/rkrajnc/sd2iec
www.ncsystems.eu/en/
www.thefuturewas8bit.com/shop...
JiffyDOS - www.go4retro.com/products/jif...
CSDB - csdb.dk/
Commodore.software - commodore.software/
TOSEC:
www.tosecdev.org/
archive.org/details/Commodore...
Itch.io - itch.io/games/tag-commodore-64
Protovision - www.protovision.games/
WiModem - www.cbmstuff.com/index.php?ro...
RAD Expansion Unit - github.com/frntc/RAD
VICE - vice-emu.sourceforge.io/
MiSTer FPGA - github.com/MiSTer-devel/Wiki_...
TheC64 - retrogames.biz/products/thec64/
SixtyClone - www.tindie.com/products/bobsb...
250407 Replica - github.com/bwack/C64-250407-R...
C64 Reloaded MK2 - icomp.de/shop-icomp/en/produk...
ICS64S - www.cbmstuff.com/index.php?ro...
Evo64 - retrospective.shop/
Turbo Chameleon - icomp.de/shop-icomp/en/produk...
Pictoral Fault Guide - www.pictorial64.com/
Lemon64 Forum - www.lemon64.com/forum/
Everything64 Discord - / discord
Reddit r/c64 - / c64
AtariAge - forums.atariage.com/
Thanks to our awesome Patrons and Channel Members for their support!!!
Peter (Melair)
Kevin Gonzalez
Jon Ingersoll
John DiLiberto
John Trammell
Paraffine
Eric Stacey
Pinay Collectibles - / pinaycollectibles
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Mitch Hoffman
Alex Smith
Vince Valenti
Geek With Social Skills - / @geekwithsocialskills
William Sullivan
Ryan Brooks
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FULLSET
Jim Leonard
[mi.low]
Allister Fiend
Erik (goodjonx)
Pierre Kressmann
RobF228
Rayner Daniel Pedersen
Wolfgang Behrens
Eli
Thomas Jager
coughsoda
00:00 Introduction
01:12 What model to buy?
05:46 What ISN’T a C64?
07:33 How much to pay?
08:12 Killer Power Supplies
09:28 Replacing Capacitors
10:07 Display Options
16:10 NTSC vs PAL
19:44 Controllers
22:36 Loading Software & I/O ports
23:28 Cartridges
25:41 Cassette Tapes
26:57 Disk Drives
30:37 Double Density vs High Density
31:09 Basic Disk Commands
32:30 Modern Storage Devices
34:33 Fastloaders
36:40 Finding Software
38:17 Other Accessories: WiFi Modems
38:51 Other Accessories: Ram Expansions
40:39 Replicas, Emulation, and Modern Recreations
43:07 Help, it broke!
44:53 Bonus Round: RF Shields
45:25 Bonus Round: Getting help
45:46 Conclusion
*Retro Bits earns money from Amazon and eBay Partner Links

[@tetsujin_144]

It's not so much that C64's history is long, we're just still waiting for it to finish loading.

[@oscars4107]

Mines still loading from 1984

[@AmigaLove]

90% of what we see here (or more) is stuff many may already know. But to have this all in one location, in 1 really beautiful package with the list o’ links below is simply superb. Really nice boilerplate resource, even for ‘pros’ IMO. Thanks for your hard work in putting together this excellent resource. I've already shared it with a friend just getting back into the scene after being away for many years.

[@AmigaLove]

Of course now I'm curious which Aliexpress 10" monitor you're using in the NTSC/PAL section, which wasn't in the description. :P

[@retrobitstv]

The one I'm using is an Eyoyo EM10 from Aliexpress, but it's a few years old and the model lineup keeps changing slightly. This appears to be the same one judging from the pictures, albeit at a higher price than it used to be: www.aliexpress.us/item/2251832652321825.html If you shop around they seem to have dozens of variants in different sizes and resolutions. This one is native 1920x1200 so it's not a perfect 4:3 and you'll get some black bars if you don't stretch the image. They do have a 1024x768 model as well but I think I prefer this one as you can get a 5x integer scale of 240p with only 2 black bars instead of a 3x scale with 4.

[@fredpies]

C64 is a phenomenal computer. Perfect for education. A machine in which I am constantly discovering something new for over 30 years. This computer really teaches how to program.

[@BreadboxBitfall]

Excellent! This can be a huge value for anyone not familiar with Commodore computers or the modern solutions.

[@monzadriver1]

Nice re-introduction to the C=64. Last winter i started up my old brick, with a new powerumit. Monitor was asnearas dead, so plugged in an old smaller flat tv. My kid (9yo) oved it, and is learning his topografics for school on the old brick,and is training math with the old bingo-math cartridge 😁 He never wanted to use the Wii in the livingroom, but the old C= . . .

[@shytebucket5991]

Watched this from beginning to end. Clearly a lot of effort went into making this video. Thank you so much for taking the time!

[@retrobitstv]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@stylis666]

Yeah, this is really super appreciated! I grew up with the C64 and love it about as much as I love making music and studying physics. Those are my 3 greatest passions. I gave all my C64 stuff away decades ago. I miss it a lot! I never thought there'd be a second chance, but there's a lot more out there than I ever imagined. I do live in Europe, so hardware is harder to get and more expensive. I should probably look into retro enthusiasts around here and if htere isn't a way to get some US hardware to Europe cheaper. In bulk maybe, and start up a retro shop. I'd do it just for the love of it. If the costs are covered and I cut even and people enjoy it, that's all the profit I'd need! That's what I gave my C64 away for, and I'd do it again, just for that slim chance to "infect" another person with the love for the C64. Possibly, people ahve already done that. I guess my best chances are the demo scene in Germany. I usually just watch their demos on KZbin. Maybe I should reach out and see what's possible here. Those people are nuts (about the C64), like me 🤣

[@user-gu2uk4yz4o]

I’m a long-time Commodore owner / user having started with a VIC20 and Datasette in 1983. Still have it, and my original C64 & 1541, and C128 & 1571 & 1581 and software. Also have a C64C, 1541-II, C128D, Plus/4, SX64, and Amiga 500, 1702 & 1084s monitors. ALL still work although my SX64 keyboard needs a new membrane. This is an excellent video with great info for those interested in getting into Commodore 64 computers and many great links all in one place, kind of like a “Commodore 64 for Dummies” video! I even learned a few things as well as being reminded about some things I had forgotten about. Nicely done!

[@derekdresser9214]

That has to be the most complete comprehensive guide of our beloved computers out there. What a great resource

[@carlwells9504]

Still new info I still keep learning of even after all these years - well done

[@Jody_VE5SAR]

Great video - earned a sub. I'm an Commander X16 owner... but C64's have a place in my heart!

[@retrobitstv]

Thanks and welcome!

[@zap2002]

Great video man. This is a much better reference than some of the other vids out there.

[@amerigocosta7452]

I'm honestly glad to see there seems to be a renewed interest in the good old breadbin. I owned what I used to consider the ultimate C64 setup: C64C, 1541-II disk drive, Final Cartridge III, MPS-801 printer, all hooked up to a dedicated composite monitor (not a Commodore one, it was branded Buffetti which is an Italian office supplies company and it had a weird PET like shape). Of course now I know it was far from ultimate but at the time I didn't know any better. Still I was very proud I could do actual computing on it and enjoyed a lot of utility and productivity programs and not just games. And while I don't really feel like rebuilding a setup like the one I had, I'm going the Maxi route for convenience.

[@e7yu]

This is, so very helpful. I just got a Commander 64C and this helps me. Get it back up and running. Thank You 👍🤠

[@charlescox7672]

EXCELLENT video! - Thank You so much 🙂

[@ulfsvensson3772]

Best c64 info video I've ever seen, answered a lot of questions good job

[@jad1973]

So much thought and effort went into this video. Absolutely excellent work!

[@JamiesHackShack]

Great work on this guide man! And bonus points for ring cap!

[@anonymousjones6218]

This is one of the best "all-in-one" summaries I've seen to date. Very well thought out!

[@stylis666]

This is such a great guide with great resources. I had no idea that the C64 scene is still so alive. Can't wait to get started again! It's been way too long. And the longer I wait, the worse I feel about having given away my old hardware. To be fair, the bad part is that I don't know how much fun was/is had with it because I lost touch with the neighbour whose tech savvy 6 yo I gave it to, and I don't know if they have any idea what they got. Heck, I didn't know. I figured it was old and I wouldn't use it for long, but then, 10 -20 years later you see that demo's are still made, even hardware is still made by enthusiasts, and you find yourself looking for C64 videos on a Saturday morning just to hear that SID chip again because some habits and passions just run really deep. C64 for life! 💜

[@SirMo]

This is what shocked me as well. The C64 (and other home computer retro communities) are really alive and kicking. And there are new games being developed for the system. Some quite good.

[@zvonimirstrucelj6190]

Excellent video trying to put everything on one place for new C64 user. However, few things are missing. First is GenAssister from US based Backbit - by far best C64 controller adapter you can think of using six-button Sega Genesis/MegaDrive controller, including wireless ones. All eight buttons on controller has function on C64 - dedicated buttons for jump, regular C64 2nd fire button, space (literally hundreds of games using it as additional button as second fire, pause etc.), rapid fire, automatic rapid fire, switch between ports... It's much comfortable to use joypad instead joystick these days - if you don't have problem with it, it's no brainer to buy for US citizens, for EU citizens is much expensive with postage and custom. You can still using regular C64 joystick with GenAssister with switch to change between Joy Port 1 and Port 2 on-the-fly. Second is Tapuino - for lovers of original tape files in TAP format to use instead datassette. Third is Tapecart SD - great storage device if you want to use PRGs only plus it has dedicated TCRT format having 2MB (only few games are converted to this plus few utils collection and original graphic collection). Fourth is MP32C64 adapter - it allows you to load PRGs in MP3 or WAV format directly from your mobile phone or MP3 player.

[@retrobitstv]

Thanks for the info! I was not aware of the GenAssister, will have to look into that as it sounds pretty great. Sorry that I only paid cursory attention to tape loading and didn't cover any of the modern solutions as I have no experience with them whatsoever. I'm aware other markets used tape extensively and therefore would have more nostalgia for it, which is one reason I prefaced the video by saying it was based on my experience as a North American user. If there's a new version of this in future years, I'll be sure to add more coverage of this subject!

[@timcsmedic2162]

This is the most extensive video I've seen. I had 2 original 64's and an Amiga 500. Miss that stuff. Awesome video.😊

[@EnjoySynthSounds]

Great video buddy. Very thorough and informative. I have a 64 maxi clone from Retro Games UK, but if I was getting into original hardware this would be my go-to video.

[@JohnMDiLiberto]

One guide to rule them all! Great work, Matt!

[@cpace123]

Great that you talked about replacement power supplies. I have the original PS, but won't plug it in for fear of damage. So I use the 3rd party versions.

[@lupedarksnout]

I bought the BackBit cartridge because as a progammer, you can create a special file (of up to 4 GB in size) and access any part of it from the C64! The potential of this alone had my head spinning. Two years later, I am still excited about the possibilities!

[@fuckutube65]

really well done overview.. P.S.: one block on disk is actually just 254 bytes, 2 bytes are next track/sector! ;-)

[@andi-w7184]

At last a really good video about the C64 for newbies and fans needing a refreshment about all basics and more.

[@sesa2984]

This was exactly what I needed. Now, if only I knew where to start. LOL I just wish my sister didn't throw out the contents of our attic when she bought my parents house. I could probably take a year off on ebay sales alone!

[@retrobitstv]

Hah yea, we all have regrets about the stuff we tossed out 30+ years ago :P Good luck getting back into it!

[@skeggjoldgunnr3167]

WOW. Amazing video!

[@pierrenagonio1120]

34:34 best monolog sound IMO Friend! Nice video

[@mechaform]

+1 for the Epyx 500XJ joystick. Thanks for compiling this information into a single reference.

[@surfinbirdzx]

Great video. This is the ultimate guide. Approve:)

[@klfrazier22]

Excellent curation of information for the Commodore 64. 👍

[@Jonteponte71]

Great overview without going into too much detail. You have a subscriber!

[@DragonNova]

Very informative, great video thanks 👍

[@chevkoch]

Thanks so much for this tremendously helpful resource.

[@youtube-ventura]

Fantastic break-down! Thank you!

[@taakelur]

This video with the included links is a gold mine of info.

[@chip5541]

You selected Gorf... Great choice I only used the tape drive on my Vic-20 and that was really only to save programs I typed in from Computes Gazette

[@borayurt66]

This is really a good video, I am sure it will help a lot of people. One follow up suggestion if I may, how about making a video on versions of mainboards? Many variations of longboards have their pros and cons, even some very early ones are best to be avoided. Shortboards don't have so many variations but still enough to include too.

[@fortvalor]

Played buck rogers game on this bad boy many years ago! Best memory’s !!!

[@cpace123]

Great seeing your machines. I have 2 nostalgic commodore c64 machine versions. I have 2 bread bin c64(my first computer), , I have SX-64(never owned as kid, but really wanted one) & finally a c64 maxi & mini. I thought I would include those. Other commodore computers in my collection are the A500 & VIC 20 original & Maxi, & a PET 4032(I did not own as a kid, but we had them in my school) What memories. And I still use them on occasion. :). And of course 1541 white Vic 20 drive, and 1541 Tan commodore drive. And 2 cassette players

[@retrobitstv]

Sounds like a great collection! I also lusted after the sx-64 back in the day and finally got one 30 years later 😁

[@yucelbilik]

I am looking forward to your works. Thanks for nice video.

[@retrobitstv]

Thanks for watching!

[@christostentes3199]

Τhe best guide on tube !

[@strunapl6103]

Also there is a Sidekick64 is a versatile cartridge/expansion for the C64, C128, the C16/+4, and the VIC20. It uses a Raspberry Pi 3A+, 3B+ or Zero 2 (only for C64/C128/VIC20) to emulate memory expansions, sound devices (up to 8 SIDs, SFX Sound Expander, MIDI), freezer cartridges, cartridges such as Easyflash/GMOD, kernal replacements, C128 function ROMs and many more. Some functionalities can be combined with others, e.g. kernal replacement plus freezers or GeoRAM expansion. The Sidekick64 handles among others PRGs, D64, SID, MOD, YM and WAV files and also integrates tools such as Disk2EasyFlash, PSID64. For pi1541 i recomend to use combo with Epyx Fast Load.

[@retrobitstv]

Thanks for bringing this up! I have no experience with the Sidekick64 but it's definitely on my radar as something I need to check out sooner rather than later!

[@PromoVisionNZ]

Quality of your videos never dissapoint. Even if I know everything mentioned in this video I still watched it twice.

[@lessonslearned2569]

Kung Fu Master was the first game I owned and played on my C-64.

[@StariusPrime]

Thank you for making this guide! Believe it or not, some of us are still only just getting into the C64! Better late than never! 😅

[@retrobitstv]

No problem! It's a great time to get into them, so much development both hardware and software these days!

[@joecan]

Nice vid, but you missed one of the best emulation solutions out there! BMC64 offers, tape, cartidge, and disk mounting from an SDCARD, Can emulate 1 or 2 SIDs (both old and new SIDs too), supports both PAL and NTSC games, can use USB keyboard/mouse/joystick or Original C64 Keyboard and Joystick (allowing you to drop inside an original 64). and can work flawlessly from a Pi3. Added bonus, it can do almost Every other 8Bit Commodore with a flick of an option (VIC20, Plus4, C128, All the PETS too). BMC64 is Randy Rossi's project (Vic-II Kawari fame), but I'm sure every here knows!

[@retrobitstv]

Ah yes I almost even tried it on my Pi400 a long time ago but it was still beta or something and not publicly available. I should give it a try one of these days!

[@ZxSpectrumplus]

Damn...I am a new C64 owner who has never use a C64 before. Only got my hands on one late last year. This one video would have told me what I need to know in months of scourging info and there's still some things here which I don't know. At one point I was thinking to get the Ultimate 64 board, but it has been out of stock since forever. Because I have been trying to repair my C64 since last year. Glad to say, I have finally fixed it with some CIA chips I got from ebay (and touch wood no further problems! I have bought so many parts...ARMSID, new PSU, new AV cable, and a couple of carts...). Maybe a next video you can make is a more technical one and dive into all the chips and potential failures. Thanks for a great video!

[@hardpiet]

The Mega65 is also an option. It is an FPGA recreation of the never released C65 but also has a C64 core available

[@Charleshawn66]

GREAT Video Thank you!

[@youtubevideos415]

You should take a look at the Turbo Charmeleon by Individual Computers. It has all the features of the Ultimate II but it's also providing a SuperCPU feature and can clock your C64 with up to 20 MHZ.

[@teme007]

C128D is the most beautiful computer design ever created

[@mjy]

The 128DCR is my favorite 8-bit computer ever released... by Commodore or anyone else.

[@stevethepocket]

Commodore's late-80s design language was too short-lived. The 128D, the A1000, and their external drives all followed a single style that was distinctly their own just like Apple was doing, and they threw it all away to make machines that looked like PC clones.

[@tonymusc]

@@initial_kd The Amiga 1000 was clearly the best looking computer of the 1980s. The keybord garage was a brilliant stroke; with a bit of cord management, the only cable you saw was the mouse.

[@smokingunclefrank6037]

Well that is a lot I'm not new to the commodore 64 but don't claim to know it all you opened up my eyes and showed a lot of great resources thanks

[@mhoobag1]

I recently dug the old 128 out the family loft and didn't want to power it up. But now feel I can as you said its not known to have power brick issues. My next issue will be my new TV does not have any of the ports I require.

[@MarionViveros]

I've been into C= since the VIC20 and I can say this is a great guide for anybody up to the hardcore level. That said, I'm not particularly in to replacing much of the internals, especially FPGA solutions. May as well emulate at that stage.

[@JRK663]

I have dreamt of having a Commodore 64 in front of my face, as a 15 year old I wish to relive the retro days.

[@CrusaderGabriel]

36 here, I literally grew up with games starting with the atari 2600 (I may have been 3 or 4 at the time) and went all the way up to a PS5 i bought this year. I still love modern gaming but there’s an unbeatable charm with classic games that makes me always want to come back, kinda like magnets. So now I’m here watching this as the definitive guide to buy my first C64 ever (btw I’m way too much into C64 music thanks to the chiptune scene which has provided me with hidden musical gems that i keep listening while either programming or making 3d art; both crafts that I picked up thanks to games)

[@achaney]

Fantastic!!

[@chrisophieandre]

Very interesting, and not only for new user

[@sammiches6859]

I just joined the club. I had to lose my last N64 in the box, but I love to tinker with computers, so I think it was well worth it.

[@markjones7109]

Great content. Just subbed.

[@retrobitstv]

Thanks and welcome!

[@edwilson7187]

My problem is I used to run a C-64 BBS for 10 years and if I got back in to it that's what I would do thru telnet. The only problem is disk space cost big bucks for such an old system. I have a CMD ramlink which on the market runs around $1200 and can be used as the storage space for the BBS but it has to keep the info intact with a 6V battery in case the power drops. Only a few files actually update on the software I was running which was Image 1.2 but that just one of the things that have to be overcome to get it working properly. I used to run the BBS on a CMD 20 meg HD which power interruptions didn't bother any of the info saved for the BBS but they are hard to find and expensive at that. They have a few options like the thunderdrives but spending hundreds and possibly over a thousand dollars to setup a BBS that may get called a few times a day is one of the considerations I am kicking around. Is it worth it nowadays. Image has been updated to 3.0 but then all the mods I did to 1.2 don't work anymore on 3.0 so that a big rewrite of mods and games. I would run it on an emulator but that takes the fun out of it for me not being on a real 64.

[@TheSulross]

An awesome comprehensive video that should be a must-watch for any fledgling retro newbie - but even those that have been at it for a while will learn some things. At the end of the day, most causual retro computing enthusiast will find The C64 Maxi the way to go. Is very affordable, has a very faithful reproduction of the physical case and keyboard, and nicely integrates into the modern world (e.g., can directly connect to an HDMI display, use USB game controllers, etc.). It even has support for things like the RAM Expansion Unit and can thus play Sonic the Hedgehog. So one gets a faithful experience without all the headache, expense, and risk of attempting to own and operate a vintage C64.

[@ZxSpectrumplus]

I have both...one thing you can't do in the Maxi/TheC64 is to have a Paddle controller (not sure USB based paddle with analog to digital signal ic will work or not). Right now I am in process of making my own gamepad and paddle for the C64. The SID chip allows 2 paddles per port. And somehow, having the ori C64 running even on an older LCD with less than perfect images unlike on PC emulators or TheC64 has some aura of authentication to it. 🙂

[@overdriver99]

wow! it's such a great video about C64. I'd like to add my experience of ESD problem on joystick port. recently I just 'unplugged' a joystick from C64 while it was on.... that joystick port is no longer working. doh!! I am guessing that CIA chip is gone. I saw some ESD protection socket for CIA chip from Italy on ebay but.. I am not so sure if that works really.

[@angrydove4067]

Thanks for mentioning the Kawari, I actually found a place which had stock...........................................finally! There was nothing new for me but still an enjoyable video or for me, a recap.

[@retrobitstv]

I was able to get an order in the other day as well! Looking forward to testing it out and having a real 64 that can switch between video standards so easily!

[@michaelcarey]

Great video! Regarding electrolytic capacitors in the C64 machines... I agree 99%. I've recapped a few C64 machines and during testing, the capacitors I removed were all OK. That 1% is an exception in the KU-14194HB boards where the electrolytic capacitors in the VIC-II/Clock shielded area leak and corrode PCB tracks. This happened on my original KU-14194HF machine and I've read of others with this PCB having issues with the same capacitors. Not sure if it was a bad batch or the elevated temperatures in the sealed box. My ceramic PAL 6569 VIC-II gets mighty hot during operation.

[@retrobitstv]

Thanks for the info! I haven't had any problems with the 64s that have passed through my hands but they've all been pretty common later board revisions.

[@OleMacDonald]

Great video

[@robertlock5501]

Not a complete newbie but not a seasoned guy either and i rather enjoyed this overview. I'm using a THE C64 at the moment but eventually I'd like to get an old one or one of the new clones to use original hardware with. Oh, and if i recall correctly, the LOAD"fileName",8,1 (with the trailing 1 parameter) is to load something into the same place in memory where it was saved from.

[@neilthomas8070]

I haven't played games for years, even though I have watched KZbin and read Retro Gamer. I have decided to start and have been looking at various systems. I could go to the PC games way and use Steam or use my Raspberry Pi's. The prices for original hardware has made me think. I didn't own computers at the time and played consoles. I think I start with a ZX81, since I remember using one. Then go up to a C64 and ZXSpectrum for example.

[@johnsobota6234]

I’m pretty sure I’m going to get the ultimate 64 in a new clear case

[@rager1969]

Nice video!

[@retrobitstv]

Thanks!

[@Dorelaxen]

My personal suggestion for a joystick is the TAC-2. It's built like a tank, the short motion movement of the stick itself saves your wrist lots of stress, and it's ambidextrous. It's long been my go to for 9 pin joysticks, for just about any retro system that uses them. Everybody gushes about the WICO, and yes, it is a fine controller, but the TAC is usually cheaper and overall built better.

[@retrobitstv]

Definitely played on a TAC-2 back in the day. Don't have one now though. Agreed, the Wico requires too much force to move and has a long handle so it constantly torques itself out of your hand. I pretty much prefer the Genesis pad for everything these days.

[@patb5266]

I didn't know the C64 was a "thing". My grade 12 class was the first to get Pets😅. We even had a special math class created called Statistics and we only had 6 machines so we had to rotate classes. I had 2 math classes. Then the Vic 20 came out, the RadioShack TRS 80 and of course the C64. Good memories.

[@aki_128]

From my experience with people untouched by (and not only) the 64 before: If you don't have the C64 in your heart from your childhood, you can't suddenly start loving it. The good old memories are missing.

[@kevinvanneste2500]

So true have that problem with atari consoles just can't get in to them

[@StariusPrime]

I would disagree but perhaps I’m an exception to the rule. But I’ve only recently gotten into it simply because I did miss out on it in my childhood. And I went in on a EVO64 to fill that nostalgic gap. Last year I also picked up a Vectrex for the same reason, and I also got a Neo Geo AES because I could afford one now. (It was way out of my league back in the day.) For me part of the joy of collecting these things now is to appreciate what was out of reach in those formative years.

[@TheWizardOfOunce]

For me as a newcomer, it was Lazy Jones that was the hook.

[@stephanetbright5751]

Can i ask where exacly you got your t-shirt from? I seen manny c-64 ones but this one is diff

[@retrobitstv]

I believe it was Etsy but it was a long time ago and it was a gift so I don't even know what vendor was used. Sorry that's not very helpful :(

[@erwindewit4073]

I thought I knew everything, and had everything I ever wanted (I sold my SX-64 as it was too bulky, C128D (my daily driver), C128, C64C, 1541 Ultimate II (not +) and Ultimate 64. But those new cases look great. And I AM an audiophile.. I would so much like to know what those nu-tubes do to the wonderful sound of the SIDs.. (I prefer the older SIDs and my C128D still has a 6581 at it's core). It's very cool for another reason as well: if you make this video, lots of NEW people are buying C64's. Fantastic! Welcome! Who would have thought? I didn't, when my father bought one in 1983, and I really disliked it, because I wanted a ZX Spectrum in stead....

[@br4inChiLd]

Amazing video....!

[@fuckutube65]

39:51 - I made those gfx! ;-D

[@retrobitstv]

Very cool! It's a great demo :D

[@Sserxe]

I said in the late 80s that the C64 would never die.

[@skeggjoldgunnr3167]

This Commodore 64 thing has become rather costly! My breadbin is presently in the garage getting a few mods done at once. I bought the mechboard64. My keycaps weren't compatible. So I ordered a German early C64-C mitsumi keyboard with front print on white keycaps. I'll find a way to drill and glue in my orange/brown VIC-20 function keys because that's the color I want them to be. Made up my mind - and: SIDFX it is! WITH built-in Cynth cart ROM mod to join DolphinDOS and JiffyDOS and stock kernal ROMS in the switchless ROMS mod. Paddle knobs for cynth cart. IRQ LED. That's what it's getting now. It's already got VICII2 NTSC/PAL switching, reset button, JiffyDOS, recap, new rectumfriers n reggulayters n Ray Carlsen PS. My 1541 (ALPS) has RAMBOard / burst nibbler parallel port mod, DolphinDOS and JiffyDOS roms switchable as well as OEM. Reset. Device ID. Track Display. Got the 1541UII+, Turbo chameleon v2 w/ RRNET, a few easyflash 3 carts etc. A new in box MPS 1000 printer. A 20" Sony PVM. My favorite so far is Magic voice module and the GORF cartridge. Zoom Floppy. Learning hacking and programming with IEEE488 card. There's 40 years of knowledge and a global userbase of a few generations. I see no problem with this expense, it's hardly niche. At least once per year someone plays on my C64 and winds up getting hooked and I give them stuff to help them hit the road running. There's always a neat mod or peripheral to discover and consider. That's exciting. It's also fun and rewarding helping support them, be part of it and oh look! New games just out! $$ 🤪

[@troyraines7160]

I am curious where are you finding these in those price rangers here in North America? I find a C64 in the 400 to 500 range.

[@retrobitstv]

A quick search on eBay shows over a dozen C64s for sale in the "buy it now" format for under $150, some with boxes and some with drives even. I just picked up a working breadbin w/1351 mouse locally for $40 from FB Marketplace, although that's an exceptionally rare find these days.

[@DumbBunny5328]

11:25 the 5-pin c64s actually can output chroma/luma video without a mod. They still have monochrome output so the composite signal is used for chroma. It’s not as clean as a separate chroma pin but it’s still cleaner than composite.

[@retrobitstv]

Ah neat, I've never come across a 5-pin 64 and didn't know they had a mono pin!

[@aleksandarl6975]

C64c with keyboard keys printed on top and front (start of 64c production) most likely will have long board, later ones with print only on top of the keys will most likely have short board. C64D, breadbin with case and keyboard colors same as C64C, also known as Aldi 64 made in Germany will most likely have short board. Short boards are more reliable, but many parts for long board have modern replacements, like dirt cheap easy to diy GAL PLA, vs not so cheap but still obtainable sharp "super pla" wich combines few chips in one big custom chip for the example. I like C64C look, but prefer long board, my firtst contact with c64 was breadbin, and becose of the diferent sid sound of c64c was never "it" for me, and imho long boards have more chance to be cheaply repaired if something goes wrong. One thing to remember, 80s where long time ago, check psu voltages before you plug it in the 35+ years old compter you just bought.

[@sx20Ramar]

The game my friends & I loved to play on the C64 was M.U.L.E. (Multi Use Labor Element) Up to 4 players and insanely fun! BTW...I have thousands of Amiga games, a 2000, monitor, drives, and lots more Commodore stuff. Any one interested, leave me a reply. It's time to get rid of all my stuff.

[@Voyager_2]

Also checkout the uni64 diy boards and machines. They have ATX C64 models with slots, or small ones that fit in a micro atx case.

[@retrobitstv]

Cool, thanks for the heads up!

[@jalava78]

As an interesting side bit, I own an old style breadbox with a new motherboard, The computer was stickered as a C64G with a similar sticker that was used with C64Cs

[@jalava78]

I've also seen old breadbox style and color drives with 1541-II internals, making me think these were either anniversary/retro editions or for more conservative markets like Germany

[@jalava78]

Every internet c64g ive seen has been beige, mine is brown with black keys

[@tetsujin_144]

9:30 - I was listening and not watching the screen so when you said "short answer, no" I had no idea what you were talking about.

[@retrobitstv]

I thought that might happen when I was editing it together. The original camera footage has me asking the question before answering it but I cut it down trying to be all clever :P

[@daw7563]

As for joysticks go (awkward name) the Suncom TAC2 was the unbeat master of joysticks. Micro switches was what market tried to sell you... wrong, they make you slow and needs a lot of force, large movement until something happens. Sure they were reliable, but nowhere as fast as a TAC2 which is instant with small movements The TAC2 had two flaws where one was fixable. 1. The rubber grommit holding the stick could fail, leaning to one side - not fixable. 2. Fire buttons required both contacts in one switch to conduct, with some age and corrosion they will fail. Can be corrected by re-routing wires so either contact conducts.

[@daw7563]

Wico joysticks were popular too, bet they needed too much force for extended play.

[@daw7563]

This is also my main complaint with the new "The C64". Microswitches is not a feature. It will make youre gaming worse.

[@retrobitstv]

I definitely used a TAC2 back in the day but I don't remember if I ever owned one myself. Agreed about the Wico, takes too much effort to hold it down too.

[@stevethepocket]

@@daw7563 With all the publicity Hall-effect thumbsticks are getting these days, I wonder if anyone's started making retro joysticks that use those sorts of mechanisms, maybe with a sensitivity slider for the digital-stick emulation mode.

[@ernestomaserati9417]

They still use the C-64 I seen in the John Wick movies. 😀

[@2kBofFun]

This was a good video! Back in the day I was jealous at the kids in my class with a C64. Not anymore. The C64 aged worse than the computer we had. OK, the software community is still very active, but the hardware and BASIC can be a pain in the butt at times. First of all the video output is crappy: the combination of obnoxious purple-on-purple type, the hideous font, an RCA plug as RF connector (ouch!), the jailbars on S-video output and the inability to feed both 40 and 80 colums to the same RGB port is nothing but cumbersome and makes any output from the C64/128 hard to watch. Our machine had built with RGB output and 80 column view was just an OUT command away and nothing else. Second problem is storage. Our computer had a fast microcassette with easy commands, faster than the 1541. Just RUN"" to run the first program, or cload"A"' to load a program that starts with an A. And a direct key to throw a directory listing on screen. Not on the C64. The BASIC LOAD command is the worst ever conceived, you have to type a full name without errors, include weird numbers and comma's, and the disks and drive are buggy as hell, resulting in tons of read errors and "clacking" of the stepper motor together with random LED flashes. Microcassettes just work, and if they don't, a cotton swab with alcohol on the reading head solves all your problems, and of 50 tapes from 1983, maybe 1 has a read error. With my C64 disk container, at least half of the disks gives trouble. Also the keyboard can be a real pain in the butt. Awkward placement of the C= key and SHIFT key, default PETSCI junk font and absence of lower case text, impossible colours getting activated while typing " or $, impossible cursor keys. Then there is the colour pallette. Some may say it is the charm of the C64, I think it is limiting and ugly. Even the ZX (if you can get it to deliver crisp output, it is even worse than a C64 in this aspect) has cooler graphics in the 8 primary colours than a C64. Last problem is while our computer had everything in the box, PSU, room for expansion, tape drive, and it is a straight 10 on the iFixit repairability, the C64 was a box-and-wire mess. You just have chaos on your desk. Repairing a C64 and components can be a real pain. The often failing PSU is impossible to open, RF shielding is everywhere, plastic can be very yellow and brittle, many parts are hard to find new. So as long as the C64/128 works, it is all ok, but if it goes awkward, fixing it can be a real challenge. I still like the C64, but it is not the best 8-bit computer. Nowhere near. Too many flaws in the design of hard and software.

[@mjy]

In addition to the C128 power supply, the one that was supplied with the C64 REU is practically identical (switching, fails safely)... and you don't even need to modify the plug. It's by far my favorite and most trusted stock C64 PSU. Granted, those are a bit harder to find.

[@retrobitstv]

Ah good point! I presently only have the 1750 for the 128 so it didn't come with a PSU. I did have a 1700 at one point but it did not come with the original supply either. I do have a modern square din to round din adapter to use the regular 128 supply with the 64. It's at least another option, since I've seen 128 supplies sell for as low as $15 on eBay.

[@mjy]

@@retrobitstv I completely forgot about those square/round adapters. I need to get a few of those. Thanks!

[@LordKerry]

My c64 mini arrived today

[@amadeusmodig4053]

Got any computer screen recommendations? I've been looking for some screens for my Commodore 64c but cant find any good screen that are compatible with it

[@retrobitstv]

It's a personal preference, but I think using these machines with a CRT yields the best experience. Pretty much any of the Commodore line of CRT monitors (1702, 1902, 1084, etc.) that support split luma/chroma input will work perfectly. A consumer TV with composite or better yet, s-video, will work great as well. It doesn't need to be large, 13" was pretty standard for the time.

[@olafelsberry420]

To think these computers have 64 kb of storage information, I hold in my hand about 25 tb of storage capacity.

[@bozimmerman]

>>THIS!

[@bozimmerman]

P.S. In the late 80s, I copied all my loose/cracked games to 1581 3.5" floppies, converting an enormous stack of 5.25" disks to a much shorter and tidier 3.5" stack. This also allowed me to try several games w/o having to dig through floppies as often. So, that was another use the drives were put to.

[@retrobitstv]

Nice, that's a good use of the drive too! I used mine as the main storage disk for my C-Net 128 BBS before eventually migrating it to a Lt.K. Man I wish I still had that.

[@doctorsocrates4413]

I just bought a commodore64c from ebay for £55...came with a cassette player and leads etc..considering the 64 was a bit like the spectrum and took an eternity to load i have also purchased the kung-fu flash cartridge which should speed things up a bit..i do own 2 amiga500s as well but i fancied a change and chose the c64.

[@digitalarchaeologist5102]

I guess the price guides might be true for North America, but if you're in Australia, expect to pay 2 - 3 times these prices. Fantastic guide however

[@HutchCA]

The SX 64 doesn't have a cassette port either so you can't load any tape based games. The 64 shortboards can be more difficult to repair since there are no modern replacements for the short board PLA.