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Custom Firmware for the Sony MZ-RH1

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Custom Firmware for the Sony MZ-RH1

_{Modern usability improvements for Sony's last Hi-MD flagship recorder.}

Overview

This custom firmware extends the original functionality of the MZ-RH1 while maintaining all existing capabilities. It introduces new features such as enhanced track information display and improved OLED brightness control. More configuration are now accessible directly on the device, giving the RH1 the power it always deserved.

Changelog

v1.2r5

Track Info Display Updates:
- Multiple selectable display templates
- Blinks when paused
- Improved stability and disc change detection
- Initial support for configuration over NetMD (for future configuration tools)
OLED Brightness & Auto-Off Control:

Custom Firmware for the MZ-RH1 - Ready for Testing!

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 11:00:00 +0200

A while ago I wrote about my early experiments with modifying the firmware of the Sony MZ-RH1, mainly driven by one long-standing annoyance: not being able to see track titles on the unit itself during playback. That post demonstrated a proof-of-concept, which was not ready for release.

This time, things are a bit more serious. I’ve now completed the first public release of custom firmware for the MZ-RH1!

Towards Custom Firmware for the MZ-RH1

Mon, 26 May 2025 17:30:23 +0200

As some of you may know, I’ve been producing new displays for the MZ-RH1, with the goal to revive as many MZ-RH1s as possible. But sadly, even with new displays, the MZ-RH1 has some (in my opinion) flaws that at times make it feel more like a toy than an advanced MiniDisc recorder.

One of the limitations is that it is impossible to view track titles during playback on the OLEDs. This is a real shame as you’re forced to use a remote if you want to navigate the tracks on a disc. This has always bothered me, and as such I’ve started looking into solving this through custom firmware.

MZ-RH1 Display Module Installation Guide

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 17:30:23 +0200

_{Photo credit: SirDreamWorks}

Introduction

This guide offers step-by-step instructions for installing our replacement display in the Sony MZ-RH1 MiniDisc player. Use this guide as a helpful reference to restore your device’s functionality with the new display module.

Before you begin the installation, please carefully read through this guide and gather all necessary tools and materials. It is also crucial to follow all handling precautions, as the replacement displays are built with flexible PCBs and are sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD). Taking these precautions will help ensure a successful installation.

MZ-RH1 Compatible Display Modules

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 10:31:00 +0200

MZ-RH1 Compatible Display Modules

_{Photo credit: SirDreamWorks}

The MZ-RH1 is widely regarded as one of the best MiniDisc portables ever made. However, it suffers from a fatal flaw: the original OLED displays tend to dim significantly over time due to a manufacturing defect. Now, almost 20 years after its release, many MZ-RH1 units have become practically unusable because of this issue, with the displays becoming nearly impossible to read. Until recently, there were no repair parts available to address this problem — but that has changed!

About

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 10:18:40 +0200

About Me

Welcome to my little corner of the internet! I’m a computer scientist with a deep passion for programming, reverse engineering, and electronics. My journey into the world of technology began at a young age, tinkering with old gadgets and writing my first lines of code. Over the years, this curiosity evolved into a dedicated pursuit of understanding how things work, leading me to specialize in reverse engineering and software development.

First Post!

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 07:07:07 +0100

Hello, world!

I finally made some time to get my blog of the ground. Stay tuned for interesting posts!