@KennyR
It's noz about being primitive, but just about the number of
stop-bits which is hardcoded into every PC-floppy-controller
(and the A1 has one of those in the southbridge).
But there is hope in the form of the aadapter developed in
Australia (planned for Amithlon. but should also work on the
A1 or Pegasos) and off-course the announced new Catweazle.