1950s Radiola Bakelite Radio Repurposed as Bluetooth Speaker

This 1950s Radiola Bakelite valve radio has been repurposed as a Bluetooth speaker while keeping the original cabinet, grille and knobs in place. The original valve electronics are no longer in use, but it now connects wirelessly for everyday listening.

It runs on a 12V power supply and still uses the original internal speaker, which gives a warm, characterful sound that suits relaxed room listening.

The Bakelite case shows its age, including a small crack on the top which has been carefully glued. Aside from that, the wear has been left as found as it adds to the overall character rather than trying to make it look new.

Overall it’s still very much a 1950s Radiola in appearance, just adapted to be practical to use now, with great sound for its size.