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iPod Boombox
As featured on Gizmodo.com!
A vintage Lasonic 1985 Ghettoblaster, to be modified for iPod playback
The unit runs on 10 D-cell batteries and can also be powered using the included AC cord or optional car kit adapter
The power label
The boombox opened up
The boombox lied on its side for work
A close-up shot of the upper half
Each channel has its own large woofer and tweeter
First modification: audio leads for the iPod are soldered to the line-in jacks internally
The audio wire is wrapped around metal rings to reduce the effects of EMI
The audio cables are sealed in place with silicone caulk
The PC boards around the right knob panel are removed for the second modification
Second modification: a section of the right knob panel is Dremeled out to accommodate an iPod remote. The remote has been sanded/disassembled to allow it to fit
The remote installed in the panel
The panel with the decal replaced
Third modification: the cassette deck is hacked up with pliers and the Dremel
Grooves are sanded into the sides of the cassette tray to hold the iPod in place. The audio cable from the remote is snaked through
The boombox is ready to be sealed up
The boombox is cleaned up with protecting solution by yours truly
The left control panel. The switches on this side were re-attached with hot glue since they had been broken off over time
The center panel, with 5-band EQ and slide-in tape deck. This tape deck did not work when I bought the boombox
The right control panel, including the iPod remote. The previous owner not only broke the ALC switch, but stuffed a handful of coins into the slot. These had to be removed and the switch re-attached with epoxy adhesive
The modified tape deck
The tape deck opened. The remote cable is easily attached, and the iPod is held securely in place
The tape deck before it is closed
The cassette bay sealed up. The iPod is centered nicely in the window, and the display is easy to read.
Testing the boombox with some good dance music...
The finished product. A true marriage of nostalgic design and hi-tech innovation
Costs:
Ghettoblaster |
$10.00 |
iPod Remote |
$8.00 |
Headphone cabling |
$3.00 |
10 D-cell batteries |
$13.50 |
Caulk/hot glue/epoxy |
$5.00 |
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Total |
$39.00 |
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