Two new retro models: Blaupunkt’s “Frankfurt Stereo” and “Frankfurt Stereo Classic” car stereos round out the lineup of retro radios for classic cars from the ’60s and ’70s. Last fall, Blaupunkt introduced the “Frankfurt Stereo MB,” designed specifically for classic cars such as the Mercedes-Benz Pagode Cabrio.
Now, the car multimedia specialist is expanding its portfolio with two additional retro radios designed for modern and classic cars from brands such as Porsche, Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, Ford, Alfa Romeo, Volvo, Saab, Peugeot, Renault, Fiat, Lancia, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, MG, and many other classic models. The “Frankfurt Stereo” is compatible with the VW Beetle, among other models. With its classic look, the “Frankfurt Stereo Classic” complements the style of vehicles such as the BMW 1800 or the VW Samba Bus from the T1 series. A key advantage of both models: Despite the authentic retro design—which bears a striking resemblance to the original radios from the 1960s and 1970s—car owners don’t have to sacrifice modern entertainment technology. Features such as Bluetooth, music streaming, USB, and DAB+ are fully available.
Authentic Materials and High-Quality Feel
During development, Blaupunkt placed particular emphasis on the quality of the controls and the authentic feel. The front panels are made of real metal and convey an exceptionally solid and high-quality impression from the very first touch.
The knobs and push buttons were also deliberately designed to authentically replicate the feel of classic car radios from the 1960s and 1970s. The precise mechanics, the high-quality feel of the materials, and the tactile feedback with every operation create an experience that comes remarkably close to the original.
Easy switching between analog and digital operation
Blaupunkt radios do not affect the H-license plate status, as their design corresponds to the originals and thus preserves the period style. The digital screen mimics the analog era with the scale-based frequency display typical of that time. Using a small lever on the right-hand knob, the user can switch between digital and analog operation or display. Other retro radios usually feature only simple digital displays, which detract from the classic car look. With the Frankfurt Stereo models, however, a digital needle moves across the scale with remarkable realism when the user performs a station scan—a feature that bears a striking resemblance to the front panel of the original devices. The station search is then performed via the rotary knob, just as it was in the past. A red pointer on the frequency scale indicates the current frequency in an analog manner.
Just like with the original radios, users can save their favorite stations using the central buttons. A special feature for classic car enthusiasts: The analog display can automatically activate during operation, similar to a screensaver, and even when the radio is turned off, the dial can remain illuminated for a definable period of time. This allows the radio to blend harmoniously into the interior of classic vehicles without sacrificing modern features. Especially for classic car enthusiasts who showcase their vehicles at gatherings, exhibitions, or trade shows, the analog display ensures a particularly authentic and stylish overall look.
Modern Technology in a Nostalgic Package
Both models, the “Frankfurt Stereo” and the “Frankfurt Stereo Classic,” feature the dimensions of dashboard units from the 1960s and 1970s. They differ only in the design of the knobs and the bezel. While the “Frankfurt Stereo” features a black metal bezel with a chrome border and black knobs, the “Frankfurt Stereo Classic” stands out with ivory-colored knobs and a wavy metal chrome bezel (included in two different sizes). The chrome display frame with original BLAUPUNKT lettering and the central buttons are identical on both models.
Despite their classic design, both radios feature modern technology: Services like Spotify can be streamed effortlessly via Bluetooth, and a built-in hands-free system allows for convenient phone calls, including access to the smartphone’s contact list and voice assistants such as Siri or Google. The Blaupunkt high-end tuner supports FM, AM, and DAB+, ensuring good reception and sound quality. In addition, the radios offer USB charging for cell phones, a connection for steering wheel controls, and the option to disable ignition power detection if an ignition power signal is not available in the vehicle.
Versatile installation options for nearly all vehicles
The radios can be flexibly installed in a wide variety of mounting scenarios, such as in classic center console mounting slots, 1-DIN slots, or other standard mounting locations. The necessary mounting hardware and trim panels are included.
Also included in the package are the external hands-free microphone, an installation tool, and a cleaning cloth featuring a Blaupunkt retro design. With various sound presets, a 4-channel preamp output, sub-out, and an output power of 4x 75 watts (at 2 ohms) or 4x 50 watts (at 4 ohms), the “Frankfurt Stereo” and the “Frankfurt Stereo Classic,” with their 2x-14-band equalizer, deliver a powerful sound. Both retro radios are now available at a suggested retail price of 799 euros at specialty retailers and online. To celebrate the market launch, Blaupunkt is offering a 10 percent discount in its own online store, where the models are available for 719.10 euros. Both devices are part of the PRO-LINE series and come with a three-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Further information and a direct ordering option are available on the Blaupunkt website.
