If you want to turn the volume up on your favorite tunes, the best ghetto blaster is a great investment. Ghetto blaster boomboxes are some of the most recognizable icons in audio history.
Over the years, we’ve listened to radio in a variety of different ways.
From handmade receivers created from bits of wire during the early era of broadcasting to internet-enabled devices, we’ve definitely come a long way.
As the concept of radio and portable audio evolves, there have been few products demanding the same attention and respect as the ghetto blaster.These portable speakers offer incredible volume and audio quality in a format both stylish and practical.
While we have found more practical ways of making music portable these days, ghetto blasters are still extremely popular.
A modern ghetto blaster can combine things like CD and tape players with Bluetooth streaming to give you a wider selection of music options.
On the other hand, a vintage ghetto blaster is an excellent way for audiophiles to pay homage to the unique styles of days gone by.
Today, we’re going to introduce you to a selection of the most popular ghettoblaster boomboxes available in the current market:
Table of Contents
1. Sony portable ghetto blaster (best with USB)
Sony is one of the better-known brands in the audio industry for a reason.
The company makes reliable, high-quality products, often for an affordable price. At the same time with Sony you can find a variety of radio options to suit different needs.
Options include portable devices like the Sony XDR-P1DBP, all the way to the Sony portable Bluetooth CD Player.
The portable ghetto blaster from Sony doesn’t have the same retro aesthetic as some of the items we’ll look at today. It does, however, deliver high-quality sound and incredible volume in a compact package.
There’s CD playback for your traditional music collection, and Bluetooth for quick and easy streaming.
You also get an AM/FM radio, packed with 30-station memory.
One extra impressive feature of this Bluetooth ghetto blaster is its USB connections. You can record music from the radio with a USB card, or play content from a memory stick.
For a price of around $189, features include:
- USB connectivity
- Bluetooth streaming
- CD player
- AM/FM radio
- 26 hours of battery life
- LCD display
- Mega bass option
- 30 pre-sets
Although the Sony modern ghetto blaster is a little basic in appearance, it gets the job done feature-wise.
There’s a massive battery life, and the device is easy to use.
There’s no app or remote control for managing music from a distance.
Pros:
- 30 radio presets for AM/FM
- 26 hours of battery life
- Bluetooth streaming
- CD player included
- USB inputs
Cons:
- Slightly limited volume
- No remote control or app
2. Victrola VBB-10-SLV (best with cassette)
Victrola is a popular radio brand in the US – in part for its aesthetically appealing design, and partially thanks to its impressive range of high-quality features.
The Victrola VBB-10-SLV is one of the best ghetto blaster options we’ve seen for people who like the retro style boomboxes.
Though a little more compact than the standard vintage blaster, the Victrola sharers much of the boxy appearance you’d expect from this audio category. There’s even a cassette player included for your traditional music collection.
If you don’t want to rely on tapes, you’ll be able to tune into AM/FM radio with the classic analog tuner.
There’s also a USB and SD card slot for music playback. Bluetooth streaming ensures you can connect your device from up to 33 feet away.
For around $100, features include:
- Bluetooth streaming
- Classic AM/FM tuning
- SD card and USB
- 3.5mm aux-in
- Cassette player
- AC plug or battery operation
- LED clock display
- Built-in stereo speakers
- Headphone jack
We love the authentic boombox style of this ghetto blaster, as well as its ability to combine the past and the future with modern features.
Bluetooth streaming is great, as is the ability to play content direct from a USB memory card.
Unfortunately, certain parts of this device can feel a bit cheap and plastic. Plus, the cassette player is easily breakable.
Pros:
- Cassette player included
- Bluetooth streaming up to 33 feet
- LED clock display
- USB and SD card player
- Beautiful design
Cons:
- Plastic and cheap in places
- Easy to break the cassette player
3. GPO Brooklyn 1980S (best multi-function)
Another top choice for anyone who loves vintage ghetto blaster style is the GPO Brooklyn.
This 1980s style ghetto blaster features everything you need to play all kinds of music. There are FM and digital radio tuning built in, as well as CD and cassette player.
Though the aesthetic of this ghettoblaster matches the chunky design of old-fashioned products, the GPO is still lightweight, portable, and easy to carry.
There’s also access to modern features, like Bluetooth streaming. You can record content from the radio to a USB stick and enjoy playback through aux-in too.
We loved this ghetto blaster for its impressive style and its high-quality audio.
It is a little more expensive than some of the other ghetto blaster boomboxes listed here.
For a price of around $260, features include:
- Fully portable lightweight design
- 80s ghetto blaster style
- FM and digital radio
- CD player
- Cassette player
- Bluetooth streaming
- USB stick input
- Aux-in
There’s a lot to like about this modern ghetto blaster, from its wide selection of features to the high-level volume. There are, however, a few downsides too.
Learning how to use the speaker initially can be a little tricky. The cassette player can break if you’re not extra careful when opening and closing the slot.
Pros:
- Attractive vintage ghetto blaster design
- Bluetooth streaming and USB
- Excellent for CDs and cassettes
- Lightweight and portable
- USB accessibility
Cons:
- Fragile cassette player
- Difficult to use at first
4. Studebaker SB2149B (best multi-power option)
One of the things that made the ghettoblaster so appealing initially was its portability.
Today’s modern ghetto blasters maintain that feature, making it easier for people to take their music wherever they go.
If you’re planning on going on a journey with your boombox, though, you need to make sure that you have plenty of power options available.
This Studebaker ghetto blaster is excellent for keeping you powered up. You can plug the device into your car battery, a wall outlet, or use batteries.
On top of multiple power options, you also get a USB port and CD player with MP3 playback.
There’s AM/FM radio for all your favorite channels, and an LED EQ system for changing audio quality too.
This retro ghetto blaster is a fantastic unit for today’s audio lovers, complete with a headphone jack for private listening, and a handy carry handle.
You can fold the handle away when it’s not in use to make the device a little more compact.
For a price of around $160, features include:
- Lightweight and portable
- AM/FM radio
- LED EQ available
- CD player included
- Bluetooth connectivity
- USB flash drive access
- Headphone jack
- Multiple charging options
We love the style and flexibility of this ghetto blaster. It looks good, and it sounds decent too.
It’s worth noting there’s not a lot of bass here for those who love an extra boost in their music. The knobs feel a bit cheap and plastic.
Pros:
- Convenient range of charging options
- Bluetooth streaming
- USB flash drive access
- CD Player
- AM/FM radio
Cons:
- Not the best bass
- A little cheap in places
5. Riptunes cassette ghetto blaster (best budget product)
One of the top reasons to buy a ghetto blaster boombox these days is for its unique aesthetic. The ghetto blaster is more than just an audio device; it’s a style icon.
That’s particularly true when you buy something like the Riptunes cassette player. This powerful boombox puts a lot of functionality into a small, attractive package.
You can buy your modern ghetto blaster in a range of colors to suit your taste, and each option comes with AM/FM and SW radio.
There’s also a cassette player and recorder built into this device, to help you make the most of your fabulous music collection.
With a USB and SD card input, this ghetto blaster is surprisingly feature-rich.
You can even stream your music direct from any device with a Bluetooth connection that reaches up to 30 feet. Plus, there’s the option to choose battery or outlet power for charging.
For a price of around $50 features include:
- SD and USB input
- Cassette player and recorder included
- Bluetooth connectivity
- AM, FM, and SW radio
- Volume and bass control
- Folding carry handle for transportation
- Aux-in
- Multiple charging options
- Various colors to choose from
This isn’t the most powerful or luxurious product we’ve seen on our search for Bluetooth ghetto blaster icons. The Riptunes cassette player, however, is surprisingly great for its price tag.
There are a lot of features to explore, and you don’t have to pay a fortune for bonuses like USB input.
This is quite a small radio, not ideal for those who want something to fill a room. Another problem is a significant lack of bass in the audio.
Pros:
- Attractive and portable design
- Excellent price point
- Range of color options
- Cassette player and recorder
- AM, FM, and SW radio
Cons:
- Quite small
- Not ideal for bass or volume
6. Pyle Bluetooth ghetto blaster (best with lights)
A ghetto blaster is a great way to transform any event into a party.
With various music playback options to choose from, customizable volume, and more, you can get people signing along to their favorite tunes in no time.
The Pyle Bluetooth ghetto blaster takes this concept to the next level.
Durable and reliable, this high-performance speaker features an industrial-style aesthetic that’s perfect for life on the move.
The Pyle ghetto blaster comes with FM radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and a set of inputs for your microphone or guitar. You can turn your BBQ into a karaoke session with just the click of a button.
Although this device is a little chunkier than some of the other options we’ve covered so far – it makes up for it with a strap for easier carrying.
There’s also a built-in light-show available to make your afternoon listening sessions more exciting.
For a price of around $110, features include:
- Bluetooth connectivity for up to 32 feet
- Excellent aux input and USB slot
- Input jacks for microphone and guitar
- Ported enclosure design for durability
- Lightweight design with detachable carry belt
- Digital screen for music control
- Remote control included
- Excellent rechargeable battery
- Stereo sound
Durable, reliable, and easy to use – this is one of the best ghetto blaster options around for people who like to share their tunes wherever they go.
This is a device that’s sure to be the life of any party, just make sure you feel comfortable carrying it around.
One possible downside is that the Pyle doesn’t remember any of your Bluetooth settings, which can make set-up a more exhausting process.
Pros:
- Reliable and durable design
- Range of lighting effects
- Microphone and guitar inputs
- Excellent Bluetooth connectivity range
- Remote control included
Cons:
- Doesn’t remember Bluetooth settings
- Bulky design
7. Toshiba wireless Bluetooth ghetto blaster (best dynamic audio)
Toshiba is another popular brand in the world of audio manufacturers.
Known for great audio performance and user-friendly designs, Toshiba delivers on everything from Hi-Fi’s to modern ghetto blaster boomboxes.
This wireless device provides an all-in-one party atmosphere for any home.
The high-performance Bluetooth connection means you can stream music wirelessly from any device, tablet, or smartphone.
There’s also a top-loading CD player to listen to your music collection and a USB and SD card slot for access to additional digital audio.
The remote control included makes it easy to stop and start tracks, as well as selecting your volume level.
Whether you’re listening to your own music or FM radio, Toshiba delivers great volume and great audio quality. Plus, you get disco light functionality built-in, for a dose of extra fun.
For a price of around $130, features include:
- Multiple listening options (CD, SD, and USB)
- Excellent Bluetooth connectivity
- Dynamic audio with passive speakers
- 4 EQ modes to optimize sound quality
- Remote control included
- Battery or direct-power options
- Lightshow for extra fun
- FM radio connectivity
We loved the dynamic audio from this Toshiba ghetto blaster.
The device comes with two passive speakers to amplify bass, while four EQ modes deliver enhanced sound quality. With Toshiba, you don’t need to compromise on sound quality for portability.
One slight downside, however, is the antenna on this device is very fragile.
Pros:
- Fun light show option
- Excellent dynamic audio
- Remote control
- Great Bluetooth connection
- Range of extra listening options
Cons:
- Fragile antenna
- A few breakable parts
8. Victrola mini (best mini ghetto blaster)
Just because you love the style of the vintage ghetto blaster, doesn’t mean you have space for a full-sized version.
These audio devices are often very chunky, making them less ideal for people without a lot of space around the house.
Fortunately, with the Victrola mini, you get all the aesthetic appeal of the ghetto blaster in a compact package.
Probably the best ghetto blaster around for people with limited space, the Victrola mini only takes up a small patch of your coffee table or bookcase.
You can play cassettes on this device, or tune into AM or FM radio. There’s also a USB port for MP3 playback too.
Wireless Bluetooth connectivity makes streaming your favorite content simple. Plus, you can choose whether you want to listen to the Victrola with friends through the available speaker or tune in with your headphones.
For an affordable price of only around $50, the Victrola mini features:
- Bluetooth connectivity
- AM/FM radio
- USB port for MP3 playback
- Headphone jack
- Compact portable design
- Excellent classic tuner
- Portable handle
If you’re looking for the ideal combination of convenience and 80s style, this could be the ghetto blaster for you.
The Victrola mini is ideal for wirelessly streaming music, listening to radio, or even recording radio channels straight to a cassette.
Just don’t expect too much from this machine at higher volumes.
Pros:
- Compact and attractive design
- Cassette player and recorder
- AM/FM radio
- USB port included
- Bluetooth streaming
Cons:
- Bluetooth connections can drop occasionally
- Sound turns tinny at higher volumes
9. Panasonic RX-D55GC-K (best speaker performance)
Next, we come to one of the best ghetto blaster boomboxes from Panasonic, the RX-D55GC-K.
This powerful speaker system comes with high-quality audio at an amazing price.
The 2-way four-speaker design means you can get fantastic audio on the move. Plus, there are plenty of ways to listen to your tunes too.
The Panasonic comes with a CD player and cassette player/recorder built-in.
There’s a port on the front panel for you to plug in devices through a cable. Plus, you also get access to AM/FM radio.
The only thing missing here is Bluetooth connectivity.
This ghetto blaster is great for people who don’t want to fiddle around with complicated technology.
There’s a remote control to help you master your music, and an easy range of buttons to choose from.
For a price of around $160, features include:
- High quality sound
- Excellent speaker performance
- CD and cassette player
- Cassette recording function
- Aux-in
- AM/FM radio connectivity
- Remote control included
This is a convenient and attractive ghetto blaster for people who want excellent audio quality.
It’s not the most modern product on the market, though. Also, the lack of any USB input options or Bluetooth could make this device less appealing to people who want to access their full digital library.
On the plus side, the music you can play will sound great.
Pros:
- Good sound quality
- Great volume
- AM/FM radio connectivity
- Natural surround sound
- Remote control
Cons:
- No Bluetooth connectivity
- No USB input
10. Toshiba TY-ASC20 (best water-resistant)
Finally, since part of the power of ghetto blasters comes from the fact that you can use them wherever and whenever you like, it pays to have a device that’s extra durable.
The Toshiba TY-ASC20 is one of the best ghetto blaster products for people who need durability built-in.
This state-of-the-art system comes with IPX4 water resistance, so you don’t need to worry about light showers of rain.
There’s Bluetooth connectivity, so you can pair your portable boombox with your device for streaming.
Plus, you can also use FM radio playback or USB inputs to get a wider selection of music options. The speaker even comes with an input for a microphone.
This makes the Toshiba an excellent choice for anyone eager to prepare for their next karaoke party.
This is far from the most attractive ghetto blaster boombox we’ve seen. If, however, you’re searching for something that puts function above form, this could be the product for you.
For a price of around $100, features include:
- Reliable rechargeable battery
- Ports for microphone input
- FM radio connectivity
- USB input
- Bluetooth streaming
- Excellent IPX4 water resistance
- Durable and rugged design
- Strong carry handle
Great for anyone who wants to be ready to party within a moment’s notice, the Toshiba TY-ASC20 is a powerful Bluetooth speaker prepared for outdoor use.
The biggest downside of this product is it’s not the easiest to use. You might take a while to figure out how everything works, considering the device doesn’t come with instructions.
Pros:
- Durable and rugged design
- Water-resistance included
- USB input
- Bluetooth streaming
- Microphone input
Cons:
- Difficult to use for beginners
- No CD or cassette player
How to choose the best ghetto blaster
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to picking the ideal ghetto blaster with radio functionality.
Some people will be searching for a durable device, like the Toshiba TY-ASC20, complete with reliable water resistance. Others will want something a little more stylish, like the Victrola VBB-10-SLV.
Choosing the right ghetto blaster for your needs means thinking carefully about the features that matter most to you.
With a little luck, the reviews above will give you an insight into some of the top-performing devices on the market.
Here are some key features to think about when you’re browsing through your options:
Power
A ghetto blaster needs to be a portable and reliable device that works in any environment. Make sure you have plenty of ways to power your boombox and great battery life too.
The Sony Bluetooth ghetto blaster comes with up to 26 hours of battery life – making it great for long journeys or outdoor parties. On the other hand, the Studebaker SB2149B gives you more ways to charge your device.
Unique features
Aside from excellent sound, what do you want from your ghetto blaster? Maybe you want the freedom to play music in a range of formats.
If that’s the case, then the GPO 1980s style ghetto blaster comes with a CD player, cassette player, Bluetooth streaming, and so much more. If you’re looking for a device that will give you more of a party-like experience, the Pyle boombox has its own light show.
Sound quality
Audio quality will always be a crucial concern for anyone shopping for a new ghetto blaster. You need something that’s going to sound incredible, whether you’re tuning into the radio or streaming your own music.
The Toshiba wireless ghetto blaster is an excellent choice for audio quality, thanks to its dynamic range and passive speakers.
Design
A ghetto blaster is a style icon, as well as an amazing audio experience. Think about whether you want to pay homage to vintage ghetto blaster design when you’re choosing your ideal option.
We particularly love the Victrola and GPO for their incredible retro look. The Victrola mini might be better for people who have limited space in their homes.
Finding a ghetto blaster with radio functionality
Whatever you’re looking for from the best ghetto blaster, you’re sure to find something in today’s market that’s ideal for you.Ghetto blaster boomboxes might not be as common as they once were, but there are still plenty of options.
There are vintage products out there, perfect for paying homage to the older days of radio history.
Or, you can choose something a little more modern, like a ghetto blaster equipped with digital radio and Bluetooth streaming.
For versatile functionality, we’re particularly fond of the GPO Brooklyn 1980S. Not only does this product look amazing, but it comes with a range of radio options and multiple ways to tune into your music collection. You can experiment with everything from Bluetooth streaming to USB playback.
Good luck finding the ideal ghetto blaster for your needs! Don’t forget you can check out our other fantastic top 10 reviews for more insights into some of the market-leading products available today!
Radio Fidelity: For the love of radio.
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