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Saturn Release Guide

Converting MIDI files into a playable music application on the Sega Saturn involves several steps, including preparing your MIDI files, converting them into a format compatible with the Saturn’s audio system, developing a homebrew application to play the music, and running it on the Sega Saturn console. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

Step 1: Prepare Your MIDI File

1. Simplify the MIDI File

Recommended MIDI Editors:

Step 2: Convert MIDI Files to Audio Format

1. Understand Sega Saturn Audio Formats

2. Convert MIDI to WAV Format

Recommended Tools:

Steps to Convert:

3. Prepare the Audio File

Step 3: Install Sega Saturn Development Tools

1. Install Jo Engine

2. Set Up the Development Environment

3. Install Saturn Orbit (Optional)

Step 4: Set Up the Sega Saturn Project

1. Create a New Project Using Jo Engine

2. Place Audio Files

Step 5: Write the Main Program

1. Open main.c in Your Project Directory

#include <jo/jo.h>

jo_sound *music;

void load_music(void)
{
    music = jo_sound_load_wave_pcm("YOUR_SONG.WAV", JO_SOUND_PCM, 0);
    if (music == NULL)
    {
        jo_printf(0, 0, "Failed to load music");
    }
}

void jo_main(void)
{
    jo_core_init(JO_COLOR_Black);

    load_music();

    if (music != NULL)
    {
        jo_sound_play(music);
    }

    jo_printf(0, 1, "Playing music...");

    jo_core_run();
}

2. Adjust the Makefile.sega

APP_NAME = MyProject

# Add your WAV file here
APP_FILES = main.c YOUR_SONG.WAV

Step 6: Configure the Build Process

1. Verify the Makefile Configuration

JO_ENGINE_DIR = C:/JoEngine

2. Check the Resource Files

Step 7: Compile the Sega Saturn ISO Image

1. Open a Command Prompt

2. Run the Build Command

make clean
make

3. Troubleshooting

Step 8: Test the ISO in an Emulator

1. Choose an Emulator

2. Load and Test the ISO

Step 9: Burn the ISO to a CD-R

1. Prepare to Burn the Disc

2. Modchip or Swap Trick

3. Burn the ISO

Step 10: Run the Disc on the Sega Saturn Console

1. Insert the Burned Disc

2. Power On the Console

3. Verify Functionality

Additional Tips

Summary

By following these steps, you can successfully convert MIDI files into a playable music application on the Sega Saturn:

  1. Prepare and convert your MIDI file into a WAV audio format compatible with the Saturn.
  2. Install Sega Saturn development tools, including Jo Engine and necessary compilers.
  3. Set up your project structure with appropriate directories and files.
  4. Write a homebrew application that plays your audio file on the Saturn using Jo Engine.
  5. Configure the build process to include your audio file and compile the project.
  6. Build your application to create an .iso file.
  7. Test your application in an emulator to verify functionality.
  8. Burn the ISO to a CD-R using appropriate software.
  9. Run the disc on your Sega Saturn console, ensuring it can read burned discs.
  10. Verify that the music plays as intended on actual hardware.

This process allows you to experience custom music on your Sega Saturn console and provides valuable experience in retro console development.

Disclaimer: Modifying your Sega Saturn console and creating custom discs involves risks and may be subject to legal restrictions in some jurisdictions. Always ensure you are complying with local laws and do not engage in piracy or distribute copyrighted material.

Appendix: Additional Resources