DSP Emulator is a free project for emulating arcade games and home computers. It runs on Windows, Linux, and macOS, and its GitHub repository provides source code and downloadable binaries. Listed computer systems include ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, Commodore 64, Oric Atmos, and MSX 1. Arcade support includes drivers for Galaxian, CPS1, Sega System 16B, HangOn, Lastduel, and Rastan. The project describes automatic tape loading for several supported computers, with formats including TZX, TSX, CAS, and WAV for MSX 1. Input handling covers keyboards, joysticks, and arcade controls; joystick buttons can be remapped. Users can type a game name in the selection window to choose it. Other described functions include snapshots for supported systems, saved DIP switch values, and exporting ROM and sample file information read from drivers. The latest listed version is 0.24WIP3, dated 11/11/25, and is labeled work in progress. The maintainer profile describes the project as Pascal. The repository includes a compilation document titled “DSP how to complile” and a user document titled “DSP small guide.”
Who it is for
DSP Emulator suits people looking for one project that covers arcade titles and several home computer systems on Windows, Linux, or macOS. It may also suit users who want public source code and repository guides for compiling and using the emulator.
What is good
- Free to use, with Windows, Linux, and macOS support.
- Emulates listed home computers and arcade systems.
- Supports keyboard, joystick, and arcade input handling.
- Automatic tape loading covers several computer systems.
- Includes source code, downloadable binaries, and repository guides.
What to know first
- The latest listed version is labeled work in progress.
- Some snapshot support was still not working for Game Boy and NES at that point.
- The latest listed binaries are for Windows and Linux.
Verdict
Choose DSP Emulator if you want a free project spanning the listed arcade hardware and home computers, with multiple input types and tape loading. Consider its work-in-progress status and the stated snapshot limitation when choosing it for systems such as Game Boy or NES.
Get started with DSP Emulator
- Open the DSP Emulator GitHub repository.
- Choose a Windows or Linux binary, or use the source code.
- Consult “DSP small guide” for using the emulator.
- Consult “DSP how to complile” for compilation guidance.
Questions about DSP Emulator
How much does DSP Emulator cost?
It is free, and the listed pricing model includes a free plan.
Which platforms does it support?
The listed supported platforms are Windows, Linux, and macOS. The latest listed binaries are for Windows and Linux.
Which systems can it emulate?
Listed computer systems include ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, Commodore 64, Oric Atmos, and MSX 1. Listed arcade support includes Galaxian, CPS1, and Sega System 16B.
Does it include source code?
Yes. The repository exposes source files publicly and includes source with the latest listed update.
Who maintains DSP Emulator?
The repository is owned by the GitHub account leniad, whose profile displays the name Leniad.
Is the latest version a finished release?
The latest listed version is 0.24WIP3 and is labeled work in progress.
Compared on Sega master system emulators
- Free plan
- Yes
- Supported platforms
- Windows, Linux, macOS
- Source available
- Yes
