I purchased a SN76477 'complex sound generator' at Radio Shack 35 years ago (only $2.99). The datasheet advised that we connect it to a configuration board containing about 20 switches, 20 capacitors and 10 potentiometers. These select a desired waveform and envelope:
* sine vs square
* one-shot vs repeating
* amplitude modulated vs freq modulated.
Etc.
I hoped I could see a simple way to start getting sounds out of the IC by hooking up a couple capacitors and a potentiometer adjust. However it required something more complicated than that. I ended up building a makeshift nest of wiring, with wires touching to act as switches. I tried a few arrangements in an effort to get sounds from it. I guess I didn't set everything correctly because I was disappointed. It's with my collection of half-finished projects.