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The result is best understood as a preservation and craftsmanship project: a convincing factory-fresh presentation of an original-era Spectrum, rather than a mass-market product that readers can simply order.
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What was actually recreated?
The target was a ZX Spectrum 48K using the Issue 3B design. Unlike a Raspberry Pi build hidden inside a Spectrum-shaped case, the recreation uses a reproduction of the original computer’s circuit board and the same general architecture: a Z80 processor, discrete 74-series logic, dedicated RAM, ROM, keyboard circuitry and video hardware.
Lost Retro Tapes described the aim as building a 48K Spectrum “from scratch” using parts that were still manufactured or could be recreated. That wording needs a qualification. The machine was assembled from a mixture of current-production generic components, specialist reproduction parts, new-old-stock components and difficult legacy parts. It was not literally made from 100% newly manufactured components.
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- Emulates 48 and 128 models of the ZX Spectrum.
- It contains 40 of the best genre-defining ZX Spectrum games, such as Manic Miner, Head Over Heels, Saboteur! Remastered, The Hobbit, Army Moves and The Great Escape.
- Fully functional rubber keyboard.
- Save games anytime on one of 4 slots per game and rewind the game for up to 40 seconds.
The documentation began on February 17, 2022, and continued through 2023. It describes a single documented build intended as a prize connected with a RoseTintedSpectrum charity stream. Nothing in the project documentation establishes an official Sinclair release, a normal retail product or a continuing production run.
See the project overview from Lost Retro Tapes and the Hackster overview for the original project context.
Why the Issue 3B board matters
The build is based on a 1:1 reproduction or redrawn Issue 3B PCB associated with PABB and made available through PCBWay. The Issue 3B was a common 48K board revision, so it provides a practical and historically relevant foundation for the recreation.
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However, obtaining the PCB is only the beginning. It is a bare board, not a plug-and-play kit. The builder still had to source and install a large bill of materials, fit sockets and components, assemble the memory and ROM arrangements, and troubleshoot the finished system. The PCBWay Issue 3B reproduction page describes the board itself, while the parts list shows the scope of the rest of the build.
The electronics: modern parts, original architecture
The documented parts list includes:
- A Z80 processor.
- Replacement lower- and upper-RAM boards.
- 74-series logic chips.
- A switchable ROM arrangement using a 27C256 EEPROM.
- Modern passive components, transistors, diodes, crystals, sockets, power components and connectors.
- A replacement case, faceplate, keyboard mat and membrane.
- Composite-video and replacement power-supply components.
The important distinction is that “new build” describes the construction and presentation, not a claim that every chip is newly manufactured for the Spectrum. Some components are ordinary modern electronics, some are reproduction parts and some legacy devices are scarce or obsolete.
The replacement ULA
The Uncommitted Logic Array, or ULA, is one of the most significant challenges in recreating a Spectrum. Sinclair used a custom Ferranti ULA to handle important system functions, but original chips are now scarce and can fail with age.
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This build used a modern plug-in ULA replacement credited to Charlie Ingley. It fits the socket intended for the original chip, allowing the reproduction board to operate without relying on a scarce original ULA. The project’s ULA guide documents that choice, and the VLA82 product page provides the specialist part reference.
A replacement ULA should not automatically be described as electrically identical under every condition. Compatibility, availability and pricing can vary, and the project documentation does not establish universal compatibility with every Spectrum revision or peripheral. Anyone attempting a similar build should check the replacement’s specifications against the exact board and intended video configuration.
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- 【Dual Screens】The foldable RG DS features an entirely new, evolved dual-screen interaction system distinct from the previous X18S/X15 models, offering enhanced operational convenience: supporting multi-touch and capacitive stylus input with a resolution of 640×480. It enables swift switching of keyboard focus between upper and lower screens while achieving synchronised application operation across both displays. Through dedicated shader optimisation, it delivers more vibrant colours and sharper visuals, offering a visual feast. (Includes capacitive stylus)
- 【Dual Screen Creative】 The Dual Screen Creative function unlocks infinite possibilities. Immersive games on the upper screen, strategy guides on the lower screen – freely switch apps between the upper and lower screens.
- 【Compatible with numerous simulators】: Supports Android games (such as Genshin Impact and Honor of Kings) and over 20 other emulators; users can download compatible games themselves. Features a built-in 6-axis gyro sensor and supports online multiplayer; compatible with Moonlight Streaming, enabling free play of PC games and delivering an enhanced user experience.
- 【Battery and WIFI/Bluetooth Function】Features a built-in 4000mAh ultra-high-capacity, high-density lithium-ion battery with a battery life of 6 hours. RG DS Supports 5V/2A charging, taking approximately 3.5 hours to fully charge. 2.4/5G WIFI 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 4.2
The LM1889N problem
The LM1889N TV-modulator IC was the major legacy exception identified in the project documentation. Unlike the generic resistors, capacitors and logic chips, this component is not readily replaced by simply ordering a current equivalent from an ordinary electronics distributor.
That means the recreation was not a completely modernized design. A builder may need to locate a salvaged or new-old-stock LM1889N, or choose a video modification that bypasses the original RF path. The exact solution depends on whether historical circuitry or convenient modern display output is the priority.
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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteThe project used a composite-video solution, which is generally more practical with modern televisions and displays than the original RF output. Composite video should nevertheless be treated as a replacement or modification path, not as proof that the recreated machine exactly duplicates every aspect of the original television interface.
Recreating the two orange manuals
The printed documentation is a major reason this project feels like a new Spectrum rather than merely a working replica. The builder recreated the two orange booklets associated with the original package:
- Introduction: 32 sides, A5 portrait, black-and-white interior, laminated colour cover and saddle-stitched binding.
- BASIC: 212 sides, A5 portrait, black-and-white interior, laminated colour cover and perfect-bound PUR binding.
The artwork and layouts were rebuilt in Adobe InDesign using cleaned-up source material and scans. These are recreated, unofficial publications—not original Sinclair-printed manuals.
The BASIC manual also exposed a preservation problem that is easy to miss. Online copies were missing roughly 25 pages. Rather than reproducing the first PDF found online, the builder sourced a better original copy, scanned it, cleaned the pages and rebuilt the complete manual. That detail matters because a visually convincing reproduction can still be historically incomplete if its source scan is missing pages or contains poor image data.
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Making a working Horizons cassette
The Horizons cassette was not just a decorative prop. The project converted a digital tape image into loading audio, recorded that audio onto a physical cassette and tested it through the Spectrum’s EAR input.
- Obtain a blank C30 cassette, configured for approximately 10 minutes per side.
- Download a Horizons
.tapimage. - Convert the tape image to audio with ZX Tap to WAV.
- Split the resulting audio into the two cassette sides.
- Export the audio as unsigned 8-bit PCM.
- Record each side onto the physical cassette.
- Test loading through the Spectrum’s EAR connection.
- Recreate the cassette label and cover, then shrink-wrap the finished tape for a retail-style appearance.
The documented conversion command was:
zxtap2wav -i HORIZONS.TAPFor the particular tape image used by the builder, the split point was approximately 8:46. That is project-specific, not a universal split time for every Horizons image or recording.
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- RG406V Immersive Gaming experience: The RG406V features a 4-inch IPS screen with OCA full lamination for a smooth touch experience. Enjoy its sharp visuals at 960x720 resolution, perfect for immersive gaming sessions, and rg406v equipped with a 5500mAh polymer lithium battery for improved performance and life. More than 8 hours after full charge; rg406 supports 5V/2A charging and is fully charged in about 3.5 hours, so you can dive into your favorite game no matter where you are.
- The rg406 v supports Wireless Screen Casting-Imagine playing your favorite games on the big screen—this console has you covered with wireless screen casting! Simply sync it to your TV, grab your Bluetooth controller, and experience multiplayer action right from your couch. It is suitable for carrying aroundis a great for boyfriend, husband, brother, son, father and friends for birthday, Father's Day, Christmas, Valentines Day, Thanksgiving Day etc.
On the original Spectrum keyboard, loading begins with:
LOAD ""The guide explains that this is entered using J, followed by Symbol Shift + P twice, then Enter. The Horizons cassette guide covers the conversion and recording process.
Why a tape may not load
Physical cassette loading is much less forgiving than opening a tape image in an emulator. Failure can result from recording level, poor tape quality, an incorrect WAV export, a wrong side split, a damaged or misaligned cassette mechanism, a poor EAR cable connection or unsuitable audio routing.
A useful troubleshooting approach is to record and test a short section first. During loading, check whether the program name appears on screen. If it does not, check the cable, volume and recording format before committing a full tape. Readers who only want reliable access to software may prefer a digital .tap loader, audio-interface workflow or modern storage accessory instead of physical cassette.
Rebuilding the box and unboxing experience
The project’s most distinctive feature is its attention to everything around the computer. The builder started with a reproduction Spectrum box from Console Boxes, recreated the artwork in InDesign and Illustrator, measured an original box to reproduce its dimensions, and worked with packaging suppliers to produce the finished structure.
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The packaging also included recreated stickers, tape artwork, manuals and bespoke polystyrene inserts. The first foam measurements were slightly inaccurate and had to be reprinted. That is a useful reminder that packaging reproduction is a precision exercise: small errors affect the fit, folding, insert alignment and overall appearance.
The box guide documents the box and polystyrene work. A reproduction outer box alone would not create the same effect; the internal supports and pack-in materials are what make the finished build resemble an unopened 1980s retail package.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Power and modern displays: the safety-critical details
The original Spectrum power arrangement is easy to misunderstand. The documented build uses center-negative power. Many modern adapters are center-positive, so a supply that merely says “9V” may still be electrically wrong and potentially damaging.
Before connecting a supply, verify all of the following:
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- Output voltage.
- Current capacity.
- Connector size.
- Polarity, especially center-negative versus center-positive.
- Whether the output is regulated and suitable for the recreated board.
The build used a modern 5V switching regulator in place of the original regulator and a compatible external supply. It also used a composite-video solution rather than relying only on the original RF output. The power guide explains the polarity issue and regulator approach.
Do not substitute a typical modern 9V adapter without checking its polarity and connector. If you are not comfortable measuring a power supply with a multimeter and confirming the board’s input requirements, a ground-up build is not a suitable beginner project.
What did the recreation cost?
Lost Retro Tapes estimated the complete project at £412.15 in March 2023:
| Category | Historical estimate |
|---|---|
| Capacitors, resistors and diodes | £14.40 |
| Transistors | £2.25 |
| Crystals | £2 |
| Chips | £86 |
| IC sockets | £6.50 |
| Power | £40 |
| Case and keyboard | £63 |
| Video | £8 |
| Manuals | £75 |
| Box | £35 |
| PCB | £30 |
| Horizons tape | £20 |
| Tape recorder | £30 |
| Total | £412.15 |
This is a historical one-off estimate, not a current 2026 retail price. It included minimum-order quantities, particularly for printed materials. It also does not represent the value of the builder’s time, tools, failed components, shipping changes, taxes or the difficulty of finding specialist and obsolete parts. A second build could benefit from surplus parts and reusable tools, but current availability could also make it more expensive.
The original cost breakdown is the appropriate reference for the figure.
Can you build one?
Technically, readers can reproduce many elements of the project, but this is not a complete kit. The parts are fragmented across PCB suppliers, specialist ULA makers, case and keyboard suppliers, electronics distributors, printers and packaging companies. Availability and prices must be checked at the time of purchase.
This project is a good fit if you are an experienced solderer, electronics hobbyist, Spectrum preservationist or builder who values learning and historical authenticity more than convenience. You should expect component sourcing, board assembly, testing and troubleshooting.
It is a poor fit if your goal is simply to play Spectrum games, if you lack test equipment, or if you expect warranty support and guaranteed compatibility with a modern television. A refurbished original is generally the more sensible hardware purchase for gaming, while emulation is the least expensive and easiest route to software access.
Alternatives to a ground-up recreation
- Refurbished original Spectrum: Offers authentic hardware with much less construction work, but may need new capacitors, a keyboard membrane, RAM repairs, power-supply replacement or video improvements.
- Raspberry Pi or software emulator: Best for inexpensive access to games and programs, but it does not reproduce the original electronics, keyboard behavior or cassette experience.
- FPGA-based recreation: Can provide accurate hardware behavior while avoiding obsolete chips, but it is not the same as assembling an original-style Issue 3B board.
- Partial preservation build: You can reproduce the manuals, cassette or packaging around an existing working Spectrum without taking on the risks of a complete electronics build.
Where to find the project documentation
The complete build is spread across several Lost Retro Tapes guides:
- Build overview and Issue 3B project introduction
- Issue 3B parts list
- Replacement ULA guide
- Manual recreation guide
- Horizons cassette guide
- Box and polystyrene guide
- Power guide
- Video walkthrough
These pages provide documentation and files for a preservation project. They should not be read as evidence that complete machines, manuals, PCBs or specialist parts are currently available for purchase.
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