Prototype MSX Special Part 1: CD-ROM Equipped MSX

Don't you all find prototypes fascinating? This time, I've put together a special feature on prototype MSX computers. In 1985, music CDs weren't even widespread yet, and CD-ROM was an overwhelmingly cutting-edge technology.
I'm going to introduce a dream prototype that aimed to incorporate this into the MSX!
First up is the Sony HB-F750. It's an evolution of the HB-F500 with the slots moved to the back. It looks incredibly cool.😻

The CD-ROM equipped MSX seems to have been first unveiled at the Electronics Show '85 held in November 1985.
Toshiba exhibited the XM-1000A, which was based on the HX-34. This model number feels so much like a prototype, it's cool!😻
As I will mention later, it seems Toshiba's CD-ROM equipped MSX had the highest probability of being sold.

Sanyo also exhibited a CD-ROM equipped MSX at the Electronics Show '85.
There is even a note saying it is equipped with three V9938 chips! Since the article uses the phrase "several times," it's possible that multiple prototypes existed.

The scoop this time? It's an article about the planned release of Toshiba's CD-ROM equipped MSX. The December '85 issue of Beep states it was scheduled for commercialization in the first half of '86. Also, in the December 1985 issue of MSX Magazine, photos of the actual unit based on the Toshiba HX-34 and sample software were published.

There was an article stating that the CD-ROMs equipped in the Sony and Toshiba units were made by Philips. Since the history of CD-ROMs began with that company's products in '85, it means cutting-edge technology was being put into the MSX.🥰
As for the price you're curious about, a special feature in the November '87 issue of M-Mag estimates it at about 300,000 yen for an MSX, you know.😁

Not only CD-ROMs, but at the Electronics Show '87, an LD-ROM that connects to the MSX2 was on display.😱 The MSX was used for controlling LDs for educational purposes and information terminals at travel agencies. Since Pioneer didn't release an MSX2, it seems it was connected to another company's model.
This was long before the LaserActive in '93, the PC Engine's LD-ROM2, or the Mega Drive's Mega-LD.
It shows that the MSX was always being used as a test machine for the latest technology.🥰

Additional Article
At the MSXDEVCON11 PC Museum pre-opening held on June 1, 2025, a prototype of an MSX CD-ROM drive was exhibited. Thanks to Tokky-san for the information! 🙇 I am so moved to be able to see this legendary item in the Reiwa era! 😍

Due to its high expandability, various prototypes were developed for the MSX.
It was truly like the legendary Zaku mobile suit of the Zeon army, and I believe it contributed significantly to the development of Japanese computer technology. 😊