The Weltron 2001 above is an awesome-looking stereo. It’s also a design classic! Nowadays, many are content with a smartphone connected to a mediocre Bluetooth speaker, making it quite refreshing to look at classic advertisements from a time long before iPhones and new gadgets. A great example of a beautifully designed classic is the Weltron 2001. A wonderful stereo with a timeless design that many of you surely recognize.
The Weltron 2001 stereo is a true classic
Designed and developed by James Pratt Winston, the spherical, space-helmet-shaped stereo featured a radio/cassette deck. It operated on both battery power and mains electricity. Launched around 1970-1971, this iconic stereo came with a hefty price tag of 160 USD, equivalent to 1150 USD in 2022. The stereo was a hit, prompting Weltron to create additional models with modern designs and branding, all sold under the “New Shape of Sound” line. Excellent copy!
The legendary ’70s Space Ball Radio with the new shape of sound
Unsurprisingly, the 2001 earned the nickname “The Space Ball Radio.” Its spherical design fit perfectly into the modern family home of the ’70s. To complement trendy plush furniture, corduroy sofas, wall-to-wall carpets, large floral plastic floors, or varnished cork tiles, the Space Ball Radio came in several colors, including black, white, and yellow. The yellow version remains striking and incredibly cool, with its amazing retro design.
And yes, you might have seen them in hipster homes, or in movies
These stereos, celebrated for their iconic space-age design, frequently sometimes make appearances in films and TV series. You might have seen them in “Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery” and “That ’70s Show.” They were pioneering in integrating both AM/FM radio and an 8-track player. All built in into a singular, portable boombox format.
The Weltron 2001 stereo has a design far from the usual hifi-kit
Its space helmet design makes it a standout piece in any modern home. For disco enthusiasts with a solid collection of 8-track cassettes from the Bee Gees, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Boney M, it was easy to throw a great dance party right in the living room. Especially if you bought the matching extra speakers…
While the sound might have been a bit weak in the Weltron 2001, it still packed two built-in speakers on each side. The Weltron 2001 measured 12 inches in diameter. All of them featured a black background on the keypad. Though marketed as a portable stereo, it was actually quite large.
Hang it from the ceiling and start the party
As some of the clever advertisements suggest, it could be hung from the ceiling. Although that would make changing the cassette and tuning the radio station a challenge. Nonetheless, these design classics occasionally pop up on the internet. So, why not seize the opportunity to own a really cool stereo… One that draws attention and truly stands out. You might find a nice one at Ebay. Thanks to Tom Jeffs and Dead_Moon on Tradera for great photos.
Best regards Johan Åhlund and thank you for visiting LegendsAndNostalgia
