Designed by Singgih Kartono, I found this wooden radio to be quite the eye catcher. His previous design was also quite impressive, but not available in the US. This very cool looking retro radio is made from sustainably grown woods and includes the “most current mp3 player compatible electronics”… hmmm, not exactly sure what the latter means. It also has FM, AM, and even two short wave band receivers.

While I think aesthetically Singgih Kartono has really hit something here, it may be missing something in the technology department. I’m assuming their “mp3 player electronics” is simply a line in jack on the back, but i haven’t seen any photos of the rear to confirm this. I also didn’t notice any mention of HD radio. However, I suspect this was designed for Japanese domestic market sale, and I guess that they can’t be faulted as I’m not aware that the Japanese have implemented the same digital radio format. I haven’t had a chance to hear or play with this device, but I hope it at least has a very nice radio receiver. I love the focus on design, but as an audio nut, I’d hope it performs on par with it’s looks.

I’d also like to hear more details about where/how the electronics are made. It’s nice that the wood is sustainably grown, but it would also be nice if the electronics were made with thought into reducing certain hazardous substances.

Overall though, it is a pretty radio.

[source: TreeHugger]
[source: areaware]

Filed under: Art | Design,Gadgets | Technology,Green | Sustainable,Home Audio,Portable Audio — Santi @ 10:10 am