Sony Hit Bit HB-75

The Sony Hit Bit HB-75 expanded the first Hit Bit concept with 64KB of RAM and more polished Personal Databank firmware. Address, schedule, memo and data-transfer tools could store information on cassette or the HBI-55 SRAM cartridge.

Sony sold localised HB-75 versions across Britain, Europe and Australia, changing keyboard and video standards while preserving the same MSX1 platform. Its practical firmware helped distinguish the machine in a crowded market.

Notable Features

• 64KB memory made the Hit Bit more practical for general MSX software.
• Improved firmware combined address book, schedule, memo and transfer functions.

Historical Significance

• Became one of Sony’s most recognisable international MSX1 computers.
• B, D, F, P and AS suffixes identify localised regional versions.

Collector’s Notes

• Regional variants differ in keyboard, power and video standards but are one hardware family.
• The HBI-55 cartridge’s internal battery should be inspected before use.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Sony Hit Bit HB-75
Manufacturer	Sony
Launched	Sunday, January 1, 1984
Launch Price	¥69,800; £299 for the HB-75B
Country	Japan
CPU	Zilog-compatible Z80A at 3.58 MHz
Units Sold
Operating System	MSX BASIC 1.0; Personal Databank
I/O	RF/composite video, cassette, printer, two joystick and two cartridge slots
Keyboard	Integrated regional keyboard
Storage	Cassette, MSX cartridges and HBI-55 battery-backed data cartridge
Sound	AY-3-8910 or YM2149, three tone channels plus noise
Graphics	TMS9918-family video, 256x192 in 16 colours with 32 sprites
Display	Television or composite monitor, 40x24 text
ROM	MSX BASIC and Personal Databank firmware
RAM	64KB main RAM and 16KB video RAM
CPU Speed	3.58 MHz