Microdeal Replay Series for the Atari ST
The Microdeal Replay series of cartridges were hardware-based audio and video capture devices designed for the Atari ST. These peripherals allowed users to sample and manipulate sound, and in later models, capture and digitize video. Used primarily by musicians, game developers, and hobbyists in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Replay series became one of the most well-known sampling solutions for the Atari ST platform.
Replay 1 (1987)
*(I don't have this version but I have included it for the sake of completeness, if anyone has one they want to part with please feel free to contact me)
- Features: The original 8-bit mono audio sampler, connecting via the Atari ST's cartridge port.
- Sampling Rates: Supported multiple preset rates, up to 48 kHz.
- Software: Included a basic sample editor for recording, editing, and playback.
- Usage: Targeted at entry-level users and hobbyists looking to experiment with sound sampling.
Replay 2 (1988)
*(I don't have this version but I have included it for the sake of completeness, if anyone has one they want to part with please feel free to contact me)
- Features: Improved 8-bit sampling quality over Replay 1.
- Sampling Rates: Retained rates up to 48 kHz.
- Software: A more refined sample editor with additional editing features.
- Usage: Aimed at users who needed more control over editing and playback.
Replay 4 (1989)
- Features: Further enhancements in 8-bit sound sampling and output quality.
- Sampling Rates: Standardized at 5.5 to 48 kHz.
- Software: More user-friendly interface with added editing and conversion options.
- Usage: Ideal for game sound design and more advanced music projects.
Replay 8 (1990)
- Features: A major refinement, improving sound clarity and fidelity while remaining an 8-bit sampler.
- Sampling Rates: Kept up to 48 kHz, with added interpolation options.
- Software: Came bundled with an extensive suite including sample editing, MIDI sequencing, and a drum machine program.
- Usage: Used extensively in game audio production and semi-professional music sampling.
Stereo Replay (1991)
- Features: Introduced stereo sampling, significantly increasing the depth and realism of audio.
- Sampling Rates: Continued to support multiple preset rates.
- Software: Included an advanced stereo editor with file conversion tools.
- Usage: Ideal for sound designers and musicians requiring stereo sound.
Replay 16 (1992)
- Features: Transitioned from 8-bit to full 16-bit sound sampling, offering CD-quality audio.
- Sampling Rates: Extended high-quality recording and playback rates, up to 48 kHz.
- Software: Came with a sophisticated Replay 16 Sample Editor, Drumbeat 16, and MIDI Play.
- Usage: Perfect for professional-level sound recording and sampling, bringing the Atari ST closer to studio-grade production.
Legacy of the Replay Series
The Replay series established itself as a versatile and accessible audio tool for the Atari ST community. While it never replaced professional studio gear, it provided game developers, musicians, and demoscene artists with an affordable way to experiment with sampling and sound manipulation. The introduction of stereo and 16-bit sound marked significant progress, while Video Replay hinted at early video capture possibilities on personal computers. Today, Replay cartridges remain sought-after collectibles and are still used by enthusiasts exploring retro computing and sound sampling.