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Love this. It’s a cardboard radio by designer Christopher McNicholl and SUCK UK. At the end of its life, the cardboard can be recycled (just keep it away from water until then). For more details, visit SUCK UK. (I’ll keep my eyes out for a US retailer, fyi.)
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You might have heard of the Buddha Machine, but do you own one? The Buddha Machine is a small plastic box that plays ambient loops, sort of like an AM radio except with specific tracks. Music that comes from the Buddha Machine is intended to provide calm and inspiration for our fast-paced lives, and can be experienced through the built-in speaker or through headphones. Also, there’s a Buddha Machine iPhone app if you’d prefer it on your phone or iPod. See the youtube video below if you’re curious to see it in action before buying.

To learn more, visit FM3.
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Goodness, here’s another gadget with multiple uses (see below). Every time I see one of these things I think of 28 Days Later, and then quickly replace the thought with how handy it could be for particularly stormy days or camping.

Self-Powered Digital AM/FM/SW/NOAA, S.A.M.E. Weather Radio with Flashlight, Siren, Solar Power and Cell Phone Charger. Telescopic antenna provided for maximum range and reception.

Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, to the new eco-smart AM/FM radio from Elium Studio. Two minutes of hand winding gives you half an hour of listening and it can also be used as an MP3 amplifier. Maize bio-plastic and bamboo covering gives a nice matte finish.

Rechargeable on AC adaptor (not included).
Designed by Elium Studio, Pierre Garner, Elise Berthier, 2010
5.5″ x 3.7″ x 1.8″

I don’t know much about radios, but I do know vacuum tubes are usually a good thing and this particular radio has those plus a heck of a nice look.

Its three vacuum tubes broadcast signals in big, warm, radiant sound. Watch the tubes at work through the open back. MP3 compatible.

Designer: Jonas Damon
Dimensions (inches): 12.75″W x 8.75″H x 7″D
Materials: Aluminum and MDF
Notes: MP3 compatible.

$350.00, Buy it here.

Hmm…sounds like a worthy candidate for a home digital music player (if you’re looking).

Introducing Squeezebox Boom: the compact all-in-one network music player that combines award-winning Squeezebox functionality with an integrated amplifier and speakers to deliver crystal clear sound—in any room in your home. At less than thirteen inches long and five inches high, Squeezebox Boom packs a big sound you’ll have to hear to believe. Simply plug in the power cord and connect to your wireless network. You can browse your digital music collection, tune to your favorite Internet radio stations, and access music services like Rhapsody, Pandora, Slacker, SIRIUS Internet Radio, and more.

• High quality audio: bi-amplified design with high performance signal processor, class D amplifiers, and digital crossover
• “Always-on” Internet Radio, powered by SqueezeNetwork, lets you tune in to Internet Radio streams even when your computer is off
• True 802.11g networking
• Seven-day alarm with snooze, auto-sleep feature

starting at $299.00,Buy it here.

(Thanks Vince!)

Sustainably grown wooden radio which is compatible with your ipod.

“Singgih Kartono chooses wood for his radios not just based on aesthetics but on his appreciation of wood’s simplicity and organic vitality. The Magno radio combines the most current mp3 player compatible electronics with sustainably grown woods.”

[posted by kris]

In most cases, I’d rather have 1 item that performs two functions instead of 2 that each only perform one. But for some reason, listening to iTunes on my computer doesn’t really work for me while I’m using my computer. It slows down my computer a little and the speakers leave a little to be desired. I’ve been wanting a external way to listen to my iTunes library and I think this may just be it.

“The iYiYi system connects and charges all dockable iPods. Its precise digital tuner includes five FM and five AM station preset buttons, a ‘seek’ function, and built-in AM and FM antennas. The backlit display provides information on station tuning, the time, and the 20-minute sleep timer indicator. It all adds up to the ultimate home audio system for anyone looking for iPod and radio control in one unit. Available in black and white. Dimensions: 7.36″H x 11.88″ W x 8.66″ D. Weight: 6.33 lbs”

[posted by kris]

It’s been forever since I had a shower radio. I think I want to bring that back into my routine.

• Splash-proof and water-resistant design
• Large, clear speaker
• Suction cup; non-slip handle and hanging cord • Plastic
• Do not submerge in water
• Requires three AA batteries (not included)

A new clever foam radio from Lexon…

This funky little radio by Elise Berthier is pretty basic – a straightforward AM/FM radio encased in a slab of foam – but produces surprisingly good sound, thanks to its built-in amplifier. Takes 4 AAA batteries (included). Also available in black.

Care instructions: Avoid getting wet. Dust with a soft, dry cloth

I’m always delighted with small, shiny, lucite-ish things, and the fact that this is a radio AND it gives off a glow, makes me think it’s a winner. Definitely qualifies as a nice safe gift that someone would appreciate…

“This unique radio emits a LED glow when turned on. Use the center button to turn the radio on or off and to find your FM station. Uses DC adaptor or 2 ‘AAA’ batteries.”

So small and cute, and really quite an effective design. Well done, Misters M. Luck, M. Barandard and C. Fuchs.

“winner of the discovery prize at NOW design in 2001 and at APCI in 2001. this fm radio functions with neither batteries nor wires! plug this radio into an electrical outlet to charge and 10 hours of charging will yield over 10 hours of operation.

this radio features a fold out round antenna and adjusting wheels for volume and tuning on the sides. this model is made by the process of plastic casing.”

4″w x 4″h x 1.4″l

I’m not much of a gadget-y type person, but I’m drawn to this little radio and it’s easy-to-use interface. The iPod compatibility is a major plus (as well as the weather resistant rubberized cabinet).

“Portable Audio Laboratory Rechargeable nickel metal hydride battery pack; charges in 3.5 hours, AC adaptor included. 5:1 tuning ratio, enabling easy and accurate station tuning, automatic Frequency Control keeps frequency locked to center of station; telescoping FM antenna; built-in AM antenna; auxiliary input jack for CD player, MP3 player and other devices, and headphone jack supplied on back panel.”

6.5″ tall

The Poe Radio (Philippe Starck, 1997) is going out of production. So if you’re wanting one of these in ivory you better snap it up pronto.

Functions: has automatic search facility

dimensions:
10.12″ high 5.50″ dia 6.5″ dia top

“The Moosk radio, designed by Gerome Oliviet with artistic direction from Philippe Starck, has fascinating sculptural qualities that push the envelope of audio equipment. This functioning FM radio has adjustable volume and tuning dials concealed at the base, and includes a curved attachment for optional wall hanging. Constructed of durable thermoplastic polymer and available in blue-grey or white, Mooosk is a remarkable piece that reflects Philippe Starck’s love of curved forms.”
Dimensions: 8.25″w x 3″h x 5.75″d