ChipNomad is a multi-platform tracker with LSDJ-like interface designed for creating chiptune music. Primary target platforms are handheld game consoles like Anbernic RG35xx.
- PortMaster (list of supported devices)
- Pre-2024 Anbernic RG35xx with GarlicOS 1.4
- macOS
- Windows
- Linux (x86_64 and ARM)
See tracker/README.md for detailed build instructions.
ChipNomad is written in pure C99 and can be ported to any platform that satisfies these requirements:
- Display capable of 40x20 characters
- 8 buttons: LEFT, RIGHT, UP, DOWN, A, B, START, SELECT
- Stereo 16-bit audio output
- CPU capable of running chip emulation or a platform with real chips
I (Megus) started this project because I want to make real chiptune music on the go. LSDJ is amazing but it's only for GameBoy music. I come from ZX Spectrum scene, so I want to make music for AY-3-8910/YM2149F chips. I use M8 Tracker every day and love it. This is how I chose the approach to the UI. I considered making an app for iOS/Android, but I find using touchscreen for music making a painful experience and prefer a device with physical buttons. I have Anbernic RG35xx with Garlic OS which allows installing 3rd party native apps. This is how I chose the platform.
ChipNomad wouldn't be possible without:
- LSDJ by Johan Kotlinski
- M8 Tracker by Trash80
- RG35xx app template by Anderson Antunes
- Ayumi AY chip emulator by Peter Sovietov