[sidhack] Where to get SIDs

The MOS Technology SID comes in two flavors, the 6581 and the 8580. The 6581 came first and can be found in Commodore 64s. The 8580 came later and can be found in Commodore 64Cs and Commodore 128s. The main difference between these two chips is the distortion and noise on the output. The 8580s have better isolation of analogue and digital circuits, and thus have a cleaner output. This is not necessarily a good or bad thing, some people may argue that noise gives the 6581 more character.

The only place to look is eBay. Commodore 64s seem to sell for around $20 (plus shipping). Usually C64s being sold 'as is' are ok, but use caution. Commodore 64Cs and 128s seem to be more rare. Occasionally someone will sell just a chip, but it may still cost you about the same. Watch out for fake chips too, there are a few floating around out there.