If you are a huge fan of Apple and have missed the original iPod boat, but have the desire to own one. It is not impossible to find one; all you need is money. But if you want a device with a similar vibe to the original iPod but with modern features and tech, well, we have good news. An Australian outfit that calls themselves Cool Tech Zone has created one and it is called Tangara.
The Tangara is an open hardware and software music player that has the unmistakable look and feel of the original click-wheel iPod. Like the original iPod, it is rocking the good’ol, trusty 3.5 mm headphone jack but that, along with the look and feel, is where the similarity ends. The Tangara is a versatile, portable music player that not only promises high-quality sound output via a 3.5 mm jack but it has Bluetooth too.
Moreover, it has extensive audio format support and excellent battery life. It stands out for being 100% open hardware and software, making it easily customizable, repairable, and upgradable. Designed for music, audiobooks, and podcasts, it offers a familiar interface without compromising privacy.
Here Are The Key Features:
- High-quality audio components: Cirrus Logic WM8523 DAC and TI INA1620 amplifier for superior sound.
- Bluetooth SBC audio support, with future updates for modern codecs.
- 1.8″ TFT screen with 160×128 resolution for energy-efficient, clear display.
- Intuitive controls include a capacitive touch wheel and physical buttons, with haptic feedback for navigation.
- Open firmware architecture, enabling extensive customization and development possibilities.
- ESP32 core module for advanced connectivity and application support.
- Microchip SAMD21 co-processor for efficient power and USB management.
- Supports a wide range of audio codecs and has a robust, clear, frosted enclosure for durability and aesthetics.
Tangara is not just a music player but also a development board for hardware enthusiasts, offering easy integration with Lua for UI and playback control, and C++ for performance-critical tasks. It’s designed with future upgradability in mind, from its display and touch wheel to the battery and storage, ensuring a long-lasting, personalized experience.
So, if you are down for a hackable “iPod”, then you may want to consider backing Cool Tech Zone’s campaign on Crowdsupply.com. It is not cheap, though.
The asking price is US$249. The campaign will end on March 14, 2024, at 04:59 PM PDT.
Images: Cool Tech Zone.