As far as I know I was one of the first 2068 users to put Spectrum ROM in my machine. It is mounted using Joe Williamson’s board from the August SUM and allows me to switch between 2068 and Spectrum compatibility with a toggle switch on the back of my machine. I would recommend to every owner that he/she do the same! All the software that we envisioned when we originally purchased our 2068s is available NOW if you have the Spectrum ROM.
Before me on my desk is the November 1984 issue of Sinclair User from England. It contains over 200 pages and is about 70% advertising of games, business software, books, and hardware–all for the Spectrum. (Lest 1000/1500 users feel left out there are ads for them as well, including 3 new high resolution games for the 1000 that would boggle your mind.) In the back of this issue is a list of software reviewed by this magazine. There are about 150 listed for the ZX81 (our 1000/1500) and OVER 600 listed for the 16K and 48K Spectrums–and this is only what the magazine was aware of! Numerous ads in the maga- zine itself listed other programs not on the magazine list.
My experience so far has been excellent in dealing with the English companies. All have taken either my check in American dollars or my Mastercard. (Right now figure about $1.20 to $1.25 per English pound.) Always add ample extra for shipping, especially if you want it air mail. Prices are excellent by American market standards. Top rated arcade style games run 6 to 10 pounds retail–about $7.50 to $12.00. What a difference. Further, everything runs on my computer! The only exceptions, of sorts, are programs wishing to access my printer using the Aerco (they don’t) or Tasman interfaces (sometimes requires a software patch provided by Tasman on their cassette tape).
In addition to the software, disk drives are marketed by several companies. I have tried none of these since prices are upwards of $300 but I suspect modification would be possible using the same device Jee Williamson describes elsewhere in this issue for the Rotronics Wafadrive.
In summary, if you are willing to buy the ROM chip and order your software from England, you can have almost anything you ever dreamed of for your 2068.