Wire flash
TechDeveloper schlae releases open-source Beavis Ultrasound, a faithful clone of Gravis Ultrasound PnP sound card
Editorial responsibility
- No named human review is recorded for this page.
- Source reporting is collected, normalized, translated or condensed automatically when needed.
- Automatically published source-backed update
Developer schlae has released the open-source Beavis Ultrasound project on GitHub, a faithful hardware-level replica of the Gravis Ultrasound PnP ISA sound card. The repository includes complete KiCad schematics, PCB layout, sample ROM, and reverse-engineered GAL logic for IDE CD-ROM interface. Unlike other clones, this design uses no microcontrollers or emulation, aiming for authenticity. However, builders must source a rare AMD AM78C201 InterWave chip, and the developer has not yet fabricated or tested the board, so assembly is at one's own risk. The project targets enthusiasts wanting a clone of the more advanced GUS PnP, distinct from the GUS Classic or MAX. Alternatives include the commercial Orpheus II and the DIY PicoGUS based on Raspberry Pi Pico.
Source report
Developer schlae has released details of the Beavis Ultrasound PnP ISA Sound Card Replica, an open-source remake of the legendary Gravis Ultrasound (GUS) ISA soundcard. The project was announced on GitHub on Monday, with the repository offering complete KiCad schematics, PCB layout, sample ROM, reverse-engineered GAL logic, and assembly notes.
Key Features
- Full hardware-level reproduction – not a functional approximation
- Reverse-engineered GAL logic for an operational IDE CD-ROM interface
- No microcontrollers replacing real hardware
- No emulation software involved
- Transparent and reproducible logic for IDE connectivity, matching original GUS PnP cards
As schlae explains: "Unlike other clones, this design includes the entire schematic as well as the reverse-engineered source code of the GAL."
Important Caveats
- Rare component required: You must source an old AMD AM78C201 InterWave chip to complete the build
- Untested design: The developer admits they "have not actually fabricated the board and tested it for functionality" – interested parties are advised to "build this board at your own risk"
- Not a GUS Classic or MAX clone – this project targets enthusiasts seeking a replica of the more complex GUS PnP
Alternative Options
| Solution | Approach | Availability | |----------|----------|--------------| | Orpheus II ISA | Commercial, proprietary, includes some GUS functionality | Non-open-source | | PicoGUS | Raspberry Pi Pico (RP2040) microcontroller, software-based GUS audio | DIY-friendly, no rare vintage parts needed |
Follow Tom's Hardware on Google News or add us as a preferred source for the latest news, analysis, and reviews.
Source
Latest from Tom's HardwareNeutral / independent
Part of this Story
Legendary Gravis Ultrasound Sound Card Gets New Open-Source Clone: Beavis Ultrasound