Retro car stereos are having a real moment right now. Pioneer released its SXT-C10PS in October, and proved there’s real appetite for classic looks with modern guts, while Blaupunkt – arguably the original authority on the genre – has doubled down on authenticity.
Enter the new Frankfurt Stereo. This in-dash unit looks, feels and behaves like it was released 50 years ago, but hides a modern twist behind its understated fascia.
Unlike some retro-styled head units that stop at the font choice, the Frankfurt commits fully, with rotary and push buttons, and a black front with a chrome frame. But that’s no ordinary analogue display - it’s actually a modern 3in colour digital screen, switching from an old-school vintage radio to a modern interface when you need it.
Other features include a 4 x 50W amplifier, Bluetooth for calls and streaming, USB and AUX inputs, and even steering wheel control integration where supported. You can even access your smartphone phonebook, and use voice assistants such as Siri and Google.
The Frankfurt also comes in three visual flavours. In addition to the standard Frankfurt Stereo, available now, there’s the Frankfurt Stereo MB, arriving early next year, with a subtle metal pinstripe finish aimed squarely at classic Mercedes interiors. And for those who believe there’s no such thing as too much shine, the fully chrome Frankfurt Stereo Classic follows shortly after.
Whichever face you choose, the price stays the same: £699 including VAT, via Blaupunkt’s UK distributor, Autosound.
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