RCR Episode 288: NeXT, Sound Blaster, and IRC
From Retro Computing Roundtable by Retro Computing Roundtable
January 25, 2026 · 2h 7m
About this episode
The episode discusses significant technological advancements and products from 1988, including NeXT's cube and the introduction of Sound Blaster.
Panelists: Paul Hagstrom (hosting), Quinn Dunki, and Earl Evans Topic: 1988 In 1988, NeXT introduced its cube, bundled with Mathematica 1.0. IRC was developed. Sound Blaster changed gaming. Microsoft Office was announced. Lots of software was developed, and hardware incrementally improved. Topic/Feedback links: NeXT cube Laser 128EX/2 Mathematica Celebrating 35 Years of Mathematica (YouTube, first few sections show it in action on an SE/30) The Mathematica Story – A Scrapbook Sound Blaster (but 1990? 1989?) Microsoft Office (announced 1988, shipped 1990) IRC developed – /me likes this Apple IIc Plus – last 8-bit computer introduced by Apple? IBM PS/2 Model 70 Lemonamiga games for 1988 Retro Computing News: Video of production of new Commodore 64s in the factory Ken Shirrif repairs a Commodore PET Vintage Computer(-related) commercials: Amstrad Portable PC Microsoft Office System: It’s Showtime Retro Computing Gift Idea: Viking Electronics DLE-200B Two-Way Phone Line Simulator See also: Open House H650 Integrated Voice Networking System Auction Picks: Earl: Altos 580 Computer, Z80 system, supported multi-user MP/M, could accommodate hard drives, 4…
People in this episode
Host: Paul Hagstrom
Guests: Quinn Dunki, Earl Evans
Topics covered
- NeXT
- Sound Blaster
- IRC
- 1988 technology
- Microsoft Office
- retro computing
Keywords
- NeXT
- Sound Blaster
- IRC
- Microsoft Office
- Mathematica
- retro computing
- 1988 technology
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: NeXT, Microsoft Office
Products: Mathematica 1.0, Sound Blaster, Apple IIc Plus, IBM PS/2 Model 70, Viking Electronics DLE-200B Two-Way Phone Line Simulator, Altos 580 Computer, Amstrad Portable PC
Books & works: Buckaroo Banzai, Akalabeth, Street Life
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