Apple II Mockingboard Sound + VGA 2-in-1 Card

What is it?

The Apple II Mockingboard Sound + VGA 2-in-1 Card is a modern expansion card for the Apple II, II Plus, and IIe — built around the Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller. It delivers crisp VGA video output and authentic Mockingboard-compatible sound from a single slot.

Featuring dual AY-3-8910 programmable sound generators, it offers full 6-channel stereo audio, while simultaneously driving a standard VGA monitor with sharp, artifact-free visuals in all major Apple II graphics modes.

Why Was It Made?

Vintage Apple II systems rely on outdated composite video and lack rich audio capabilities. By combining VGA output and Mockingboard sound in one RP2040-based board, this card eliminates the need for multiple expansion cards and complex setups. Connect your Apple II to modern displays and speakers — without permanent mods or extra clutter.

What Makes It Special?

• RP2040-Powered: Dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ for real-time video and audio processing
• Dual AY-3-8910 Sound: Fully Mockingboard-compatible, 6-channel stereo audio for classic games and music
• VGA Video Output: Supports Text, Lo-Res, Hi-Res, Double-Lo-Res, and Double-Hi-Res modes — clean 480p VGA to modern monitors
• Any-Slot Operation: Unlike the original Tronix286 open-source design which requires Slot 4, this version works in any Apple II slot — full flexibility
• All-in-One Design: Saves slots and simplifies setup by combining sound and video on a single card
• Plug-and-Play: No drivers, no soldering, no configuration needed
• Open & Expandable: Firmware updates and alternate modes (Wi-Fi, serial emulation) possible via USB

Key Specifications

• Compatible systems: Apple II, Apple II Plus, Apple IIe
• MCU: Raspberry Pi RP2040 (dual-core Cortex-M0+)
• Sound: 2× AY-3-8910 PSG — 6 channels, stereo, Mockingboard compatible
• Video: VGA 480p output
• Supported graphics modes: Text, Lo-Res, Hi-Res, Double-Lo-Res, Double-Hi-Res
• Slot: Any standard Apple II peripheral slot (no Slot 4 restriction)
• Connectivity: USB (firmware update / expansion)
• Installation: Plug-and-play, no drivers required

Improvements Over Original Design

Based on the open-source project by Tronix286, this version removes the Slot 4 requirement — both VGA and Mockingboard audio work perfectly in any slot, giving you complete flexibility in your Apple II configuration.