With a clear nod to the iconic ghetto-blasters of the 80’s TDK is bringing the classic back with their new line of sleek boomboxes updated for today’s technology.
Currently there are two models, the 3 Speaker Boombox and the 2 Speaker Boombox. Apart from size, the primary difference is that the 3 Speaker model has a dedicated subwoofer in the center, which produces a fantastic vibration sure to get booties shaking. The 2 Speaker boombox features the same pair of 6-inch direct drive units from its big brother that solidify the classic look while offering crystal-clear sound, but adds a leather shoulder strap to the fixed, solid handle. Both stereos strike a balance between old and new with glossy finishes, touch screen control panels and the classic retro rectangular shape.
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The analog switches typical of old-school blasters have been swapped out for touch sensitive buttons embedded into the front of the device, similar to those found on many smart phones. While all of the information displayed is digital, it has a decidedly analog feel, even including a retro-styled EQ. Controls include a left knob for controlling the power and volume and one on the right for toggling through radio stations or adjusting the settings. Both models have USB for media stick playback and iPod or iPhone music playback, 3.5mm and RCA auxiliary ports to connect a huge variety of music sources. There is also a larger auxiliary port that allows you to connect a guitar or microphone in case you want to join in the music magic.
The TDK boomboxes are an awesome reinvention of the classic portable device, both aesthetically and technically. They retain the character and size of shoulder-mounted music players but fit as nicely in a living room as they would on a stoop. And yes, they can be battery-powered in addition to being plugged in. The boomboxes will be available online starting January 2011 and at retail locations in February 2011 at $399 for the two speaker version and $499 for the three speaker one.
[via coolhunting]