Blaupunkt goes retro with a modern car stereo that looks like a tape deck from the 1980s

Blaupunkt goes retro with a modern car stereo that looks like a tape deck from the 1980s

The button-infused face of the device offers Bluetooth, USB and SD card capabilities.

The good-old cassette deck will be recalled by auto enthusiasts who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s. This is especially true in the 1980s, the decade that saw the introduction of cassette tapes. Every automaker had a version of a black stereo with digital display and push buttons. These were a striking contrast to analog radios with two large knobs to adjust volume or tune a station. They’re also as 1980s-inspired as John Hughes movies.

Decade Of Decadence:

Modern Bluetooth-equipped stereo systems with a retro look are in demand. Blaupunkt decks were common in high-end cars back in the day. To bridge this technology gap, the company now makes a 21st century deck with all the glamor of the ’80s. It can be used to maintain your classic car, whether it’s an air-cooled Porsche 911, or a Ford Escort.

Retro-styled Bremen 46 DAB has small buttons and dials. There’s a knob to adjust the volume, and a digital display that is period-correct. Even though the cassette slot is only for appearances, there’s no actual function. The Bremen can also be used as an AM/FM tuner. It has USB, SDHC, Bluetooth, and SDHC capabilities. You can also pair your phone with it using the built-in microphones or external microphones.

The Best of Times, The Worst Of Times

While there are many aftermarket stereos that can be mounted to classic cars, Autoblog correctly points out that these sleek-face decks with fancy displays look out of place in a car from the glamrock era. However, there is a price to be paid for keeping the 1980’s design. The Bremen SQR 46 DAB is listed at EUR449 which is roughly $500 in U.S. dollars. Although it’s not extravagant, it is quite a bit higher than the average high-quality aftermarket deck. We think it’s a good investment if you want to keep your 1980’s classic car looking digital.