Elekit DIY vacuum tube audio kits go retro

Written by: Michael Keferl on November 17, 2007 at 4:34 am | In DIGITAL LIFE |

In general, old-style vacuum tube audio products have seen a rise in popularity over the last year, particularly in the DIY category, as a classic retro sense is standing in contrast to the dime-a-dozen sleek components we see all the time. Elekit is now putting vacuum tubes in just about everything.

For your iPod or audio player, the TU-882 headphone amp will take you 5-6 hours to put together, but will give that added boost to your precious (and weak) tunes with three impedance ranges from 4 to 1000 Ohms. It’s limited to 500 pieces, and will go for about $280.
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A bit more unexpected is the TU-884CD, a vacuum tube amped-up CD player also being released at the end of November. Limited to 1000 pieces this year, it’ll set you back about $300 and looks pretty cool next to a standard Elekit amp.

While we aren’t exactly audiophiles over here (forgive our lame tech details), these DIY amp kits are part of a larger retro trend here in Japan, taking modern products and giving them a classic feel. Everyone has a home stereo in some form or fashion, but vacuum tubes give a feeling (and a glow) that shows style as well as musical appreciation.

Elekit homepage

Tags: A/V, DIY
Category: DIGITAL LIFE
Other categories: MARKETING IDEAS, LIFESTYLE / FASHION, PRODUCT INNOVATIONS