Making Synth Music with a TRS-80! Downpoly Interview & Rig Tour

At a convention in Dallas/Fort Worth, the host met with Joel, who performs under the name Downpoly. Downpoly is using vintage TRS-80 microcomputers to bridge retro computing and modern electronic music.

He walks through his setup, which incorporates Michael Wessel's MIDI-80 interface and George Phillips' Orchestra 90 organ software, pushing the classic machines to their limits. The configuration demonstrates how older hardware can be adapted for contemporary synth production.

The video offers a detailed rig tour and interview, showcasing the hardware and software in operation. It highlights the potential for vintage computers to serve as viable tools in modern music creation. Viewers interested in retro technology or electronic music production may find the content particularly informative.

Overall, the feature underscores the creative possibilities that arise when legacy systems intersect with current musical trends. It also provides insight into the technical challenges of integrating old hardware with contemporary digital workflows.

Watch the full interview and rig tour now:

Comment highlights:

"Some of their tunes are pretty good listening. There was a pretty good article about Downpoly in one of the first few COMPUTE's Gazette issues. I think it's great you did these interviews while at ..." - @timhowe2968