Technology never dies, it just ends up with a smaller, devoted fanbase. Such is certainly the case with the Commodore 64. Retro computing hobbyists are keeping this system alive and developing new replacement parts and upgrades.

Such is the case with the Evolution 64 (or Evo 64) line of products. They have a C64 main board about to come to market that includes a dual SID (Sound Interface Device) capability for improved, stereo sound, better overall reliability, and better video output. They also offer several tube-based(!) audio pre-amp modules, a replacement RF modulator, and other modern replacement parts.

In this video, the 8-Bit Guy gets a hold of the Evo 64 board and a NuTube 64 pre-amp and takes them for a test drive.

Bottom line: At under $300, the Evo64 board is a good option for those looking to upgrade an ailing board, get improved video quality, or to give that case housing an old, dead C64 bread bin a reason to earn its keep. Dave was less convinced that the $500 NuTube preamp module was worth the extra bread.

BTW: This board is strictly: BYOC (bring your own chips — none of the original C64 chips come with it).