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I found that tape playback provided higher sound levels than Bluetooth or line input (even with both set to maximum output), but that may be a reflection of the gear I was using. To test the distortion, I recorded Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy” to tape, then played it from all three sources. Using Bluetooth and the line input, the track’s incredible bass line caused no issues at all, even at 100 percent volume. But when I switched to tape, the GB-001 reached the limit of what it could handle at the 75 percent mark, at which point distortion became very noticeable.
We Are Rewind says it uses the Spatial function for a “wider, more immersive stereo experience,” yet the GB-001 remains very directional. Position yourself in dead space, about five to six feet away, and it will look great. Stereo separation isn’t amazing, but it’s enough for a soundstage that can sometimes sound like twice the width of the boom box. However, if you move away from this center line, the stereo immediately disappears, as does much of the mid-to-high frequency definition. The sound gets more distorted the farther you go. This may also explain that smearing feeling I mentioned earlier.
Photography: Simon Cohen
To some extent, this is true of any portable sized speaker, but is more noticeable on the GB-001 than on more modern speakers, such as Authentic JBL 300 or Marshall Kilburn IIIwhich can fill the room more evenly.
Bass and treble tone controls provide a wide range of adjustments in both frequency ranges, but do not affect the headphone’s output. Speaking of headphones, models with low impedance and high sensitivity would be a better choice for the GB-001. It wasn’t powerful enough to drive 80 ohms Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro The limited edition cans are as loud as I would have liked.
to Portable speaker Given its power, the GB-001 is quite pricey, especially when you consider that it has much less battery life than similarly powerful models. It also lacks water and dust resistance, and you definitely wouldn’t want to drop it from any height. The lack of an AM/FM radio, Bluetooth playback controls, and bar counter are unfortunate misses.
However I really like We Are Rewind’s new take on the classic boom box. The simplicity of its design, and its versatility as a recording device – those VU meters! – Combined with its great power and karaoke option, it gives it value beyond pure nostalgia. It’s a very practical way to explore (or reacquaint yourself with) the analog format that is slowly making its way back into the spotlight. At the very least, it’s a foolproof conversation piece. If this is worth the money to you, and you miss creating mixtapes, it may be worth the purchase.