Sunday, June 23, 2019

Mini Stereo Systems Old and New

I spotted this tiny stereo system at a thrift store just yesterday.  It's a cute little AM/FM radio with cassette player and a built in clock.  Unfortunately, it didn't have any power for in store testing.  It needs a 6V power supply adapter or some batteries.  The unit didn't seem to have a brand name. 


Even by 80s standards, this little stereo is the cheesiest little thing.  It's the kind of thing that you'd get as a premium for subscribing to a magazine.  Today, a little stereo is no big deal.  Most people just establish a bluetooth connection between their smartphone and a portable speaker.

However, hobbyists still have lots of great options for tiny stereo systems.  For example, the Jensen JBS-200 Bluetooth AM/FM CD Music System is a great deal for a bedroom, dorm, or private office stereo system.  It's a conventional stereo choice at an affordable price.

Another serious option for tiny stereo equipment is to provide an amplifier that will allow old school passive stereo speakers to be used in conjunction with a computer or phone.  One great option is the Nobsound G3 2-Channel Bluetooth 5.0 Amplifier.  It provides 100 watts of power (50 watts per channel).  Traditional stereo speakers offer excellent sound quality, well designed cabinets, and the power to rock.  There is no reason to let them languish unused in the basement.