Remember the good old days when turning on your computer meant hearing those classic boot-up sounds? If you miss the nostalgia of those beeps and boops but don’t want to sacrifice performance for retro vibes, there’s a new M.2 gadget that might pique your interest.
Japanese online shop Kadenken is now offering an M.2 module with an integrated speaker that recreates the distinctive beep-boops of the NEC PC-9800 series, first released in Japan in 1982. This series sold over 18 million units during its 20-year lifespan, with some hardware variants sold internationally as the APC series. For those who have fond memories of these classic boot sounds, this gadget is a trip down memory lane.
The speaker module is designed in a 2280 format (80mm long) but can be trimmed down to 30mm to fit into laptops or smaller devices like the Steam Deck. However, keep in mind that you’ll need a free M.2 slot to use this gadget, so installing it in a Steam Deck might not be the best idea unless you prioritize the beep-boop noise over other essential components.
Despite being slightly taller than a standard M.2 card, the speaker module shouldn’t cause any issues with desktop motherboards as it triggers the beep using the PCIe bus reset signal, ensuring compatibility with most computers during the initial boot or reset process.
Priced at 2,880 yen (approximately $18 USD), this low-volume device offers a budget-friendly way to bring back the retro PC boot sounds. However, if you’re considering purchasing it from outside Japan, keep in mind that shipping and import fees may increase the overall cost.
For tech enthusiasts like Michael, who has a decade of experience in technology journalism and a passion for all things related to computers, this M.2 gadget is a fun way to add a touch of nostalgia to modern devices. Whether you’re a keyboard enthusiast like Michael or simply appreciate the charm of classic PC hardware, this gadget offers a unique way to revive retro sounds in today’s tech-driven world.
