For a quintessential CP/M experience, run it on an S-100 -based system [0] with either an Intel 8080 or Zilog Z80 CPU and some expansion cards that complete the system. Probably at least light I/O (incl. keyboard), disk storage, and graphics.

A tremendously great thing about these systems is that within a mere few years, 1 person can learn and understand the system in its totality, everything from basic electronics, circuit boards, power supply, through digital logic and components, OS and system, and up to user apps. There was a vibrant community of people making and contributing to these ecosystems, with complete systems, individual cards, upgrades and improvements, software, magazines, trade shows, and meets. Today we can recognize that as a nascent incarnation of the FOSS / commercial spectrum.

To me, it says something beautiful about the human spirit and condition. And how we are inexorably destined as a technological species. Perhaps all life capable of it is. OK I'm off to re-watch The Expanse now.

[0] http://cpmarchives.classiccmp.org/cpm/mirrors/www.s100comput...