A number of new radio receivers are available which combine vintage style with new technology and features. Many such radios are relatively affordable, and they can be purchased at stores or online. Read on for details about several radio models of this type…
TEAC SLD-80S: This dual-speaker stereo AM/FM unit also features a compact disc player and clock. The clock is digital, but the radio has analog tuning. The vintage style tuning dial is located in the center of the radio, between the speakers and above the clock. A cover lifts up on the top to reveal the CD player. It generally costs about $60-75.
CROSLEY CR220, CR221: The Crosley Comet CR220 is available at Target and Best Buy stores for about $100. It features a wood-colored exterior, analog tuning, and orange tuning indicator. The somewhat similar CR221 is also offered by both stores. According to Best Buy’s website, it creates a “virtual surround sound experience” and allows other audio devices to be connected to it and use its speaker for audio output.
ELECTRO BRAND 4303: This inexpensive red, white, and chrome vintage style radio receives AM and FM. It also has an analog alarm clock with roman numerals. I do not own this radio, but I have used several older Electro Brand products and found them to be of very good quality. This brand also makes retro style CD players, along with various other modern-styled electronics.
TIMEX T247S: This is a retro style alarm clock which can be found on eBay and has been manufactured in at least two colors. It has an analog radio tuning control, but the clock is a red digital. Unlike some alarm clocks which are actually vintage, it features a snooze button, an alarm which starts softly and becomes louder as time passes, a battery back-up, and other features.
KASSEL: At least a couple of Kassel brand “tombstone” style radios are available; they appear to have a wood or wood-like exterior, and run on four “D” batteries. They feature AM and FM reception, with analog tuning controls. These radios don’t have new features like a digital clock or a CD player, but this makes their style and operation more realistically vintage. They can be purchased on a number of shopping websites, as well as online auctions.
SPIRIT OF ST. LOUIS: A number of vintage style radio receivers have been offered by this brand name. Most models at least receive AM and FM, some cover other bands and/or have built-in cassette (or CD) players. They can be found on eBay.com and some shopping websites.
A number of other brands also make or have made new vintage style radios, including Studebaker, Sangean, Philco, and others. Some generic units are available as well. In addition to the above-mentioned stores and websites, new and used radios of this type can sometimes be purchased at pawn shops, discount stores like Big Lots, flea markets, and garage sales.
