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PS1's sound files are kind of finicky when it comes to extracting the samples. With PS2 and 3, MTH literally allows you to download the file and even read from it. I can't be sure if the Proto-Sound 1 files were available back in the '90s, but they sure aren't now. I asked in a Discord server if someone could identify what type of chip the PS1 sound chip is, and they said they thought it was a 32-pin Quad flatpack. They also linked me an eBay listing to a device that could possibly read from it. If I do get my hands on a PS1 loco, I will likely do the following after removing the chip:

1. Read from it using the device
2. Make a disc image of the ROM stored on the chip
3. Import the RAW image into Audacity and see if there's any audio data
4. Calculate the source bitrate of the sounds
5. Isolate each sound sample

Would this process be possible with the PS1 chips?

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Your approach looks good.  You'll need a better identification than 32-pin quad flatpack however.  That description captures the physical package but not the manufacturer and model number.

MHM1-43141-03-DSC03047_cr1

My two PS-1's (Pere Marquette E-8 trio and C&O Allegheny) are both buttoned up currently otherwise I'd look inside, peel  the label off the chip, and find a clue.  Maybe someone can help here who already has one opened up.  When I last had the E-8A open I took this picture.  Obviously with the sticker on it we can't see enough to determine what we need to know. 

The only other issue you might encounter is that the chip's memory might be encrypted, and/or access to it might be password protected.  This is extremely common with newer stuff but may not have been in use by either QSI or MTH back in the mid- to late-1990's when these were made.  Without the password, if needed, you won't be able to get to the memory.

Have at it though.  Press on regardless.

Mike

 

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  • MHM1-43141-03-DSC03047_cr1: PS-1 Sound Chip, QSI, MTH Pere Marquette E8A (20-2205-1)

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