Modern Cassette Boombox Revives Retro Sound with Bluetooth and Rechargeable Battery

We Are Rewind, a Paris-based company, has launched the GB-001, a modern reinterpretation of the iconic 1980s boombox. This device combines nostalgic cassette functionality with contemporary features such as Bluetooth connectivity and a rechargeable battery, appealing to both retro enthusiasts and modern audio consumers.

At its core, the GB-001 features a cassette deck capable of playing and recording tapes. It includes a user-adjustable motor with internal speed regulation for precise playback and a noise reduction circuit that emulates Dolby B technology, ensuring high fidelity when playing older tapes. Users can record audio from wired microphones or wirelessly via Bluetooth-connected mics, expanding creative possibilities.

The audio system comprises four speakers: two powerful woofers for deep bass and two soft dome tweeters for clear vocals and treble. Unlike many ‘80s boomboxes that emphasized bass at the expense of clarity, the GB-001 offers a balanced, natural sound signature. Additionally, a spatialisation function enhances the stereo image for a more immersive listening experience.

Powering the device is a user-replaceable 3,000mAh rechargeable battery that provides up to 10 hours of playback when using the speakers with cassette tapes, and up to 15 hours when streaming from external sources. Headphone use extends battery life further, supporting up to 28 hours of playback, though the exact connection method is unspecified.

A standout design element is the inclusion of authentic analog VU meters, backlit with a warm glow, which not only provide visual feedback but also evoke the classic aesthetic of vintage stereos. This feature, along with the retro folding handle, makes the GB-001 a stylish alternative to typical modern Bluetooth speakers.

The GB-001 represents a unique fusion of retro charm and modern technology, potentially reigniting interest in cassette media while meeting contemporary audio expectations. Its blend of analog and digital features highlights opportunities for innovation in audio hardware design, appealing to both nostalgic consumers and new audiences.