We're just getting started in the CES 2012 expo hall, and companies have to bring a certain je ne se quois to gain attention. Standing apart from all the futuristic cameras and sleek TV sets, there was retro-inspired Crosley.
With a booth full of vinyl players, iPod docs, and bluetooth radios, it was a nice change of pace. Check out all that Crosley has to offer in the way of music enjoyment, and stay tuned for pricing and availability info.
You can get a generic camera strap from just about anywhere these days, but this one is streets ahead. Made from vintage vinyl from 80's Mercedes models, the Deadstock Vinyl strap ($35) is affordable, stylish, handmade, and should satisfy even the most hipster of photographers in your life. Of course, if a camera strap isn't enough, you can also get a guitar strap and wallet made from the same material.
Retro is in, baby, and if you've got a stockpile of vinyl records hanging out in your living room, why not store them in a more fashionable way than just sitting in a heap on your floor? These five shelves and cases should do the trick.
City living can come with lots of obstacles, one of which is limited space. Unless you've got the bankroll to afford your own condo or house, you're going to have to settle for small square footage. But if you're a gadget freak like we are, where on earth do you put all of your gaming goodies and your retro music collection? The Draper Cabinet ($249) may be just the thing you need. Not only does this midcentury modern-styled beauty come with a flip top so you can play your records without having to pull out your player, but there's also a place to store said records (with included wire dividers), then another side that would be perfect for storing your collection of video games or other gadget essentials. Plus, it's only 38 inches wide, so it can easily fit in the smallest of apartments.
Of course, you could make like its namesake and keep your liquor and glasses handy for those times you really just need a drink. Betty, get some ice!
As you may already be aware, I'm a big fan of vinyl records. You just can't duplicate their rich tones on an MP3, but some have certainly gone out of their way to try. A man after my own heart, Justin Timberlake recently told a German newspaper that he too prefers vinyl over digital recordings. Although modern man Justin is currently starring in The Social Network as digital mastermind (and Napster founder) Sean Parker, he says he frequently tosses on old Beach Boys and Beatles records, which come with warm and rich sounds you can't find on a digital recording.
Are you a vinyl freak like me and Justin or want to get on the vintage geek train for the first time? Go ahead — get yourself a good record player (I have a few suggestions for you here), then head out to your local record shop and browse the racks!
Just in time for Father's Day, I came across this totally unique Vinyl Record Necktie ($30) that would please any music-loving dad.
A record image is silkscreened onto soft microfiber material (or traditional silk if you prefer), and comes in a variety of colors — black, white, olive, pink, red, and charcoal — and in thick or thin widths to fit any dad's style. I'm kind of in love, and even think this tie would be appropriately fitted on your groomsmen for a musically themed wedding. So what do you think — totally geeky or geek chic?
Vinyl fans take note: this little turntable necklace is a fraction of the cost of what you'd pay for a rare Motown B-side at $22, and it announces your love for vintage in a wearable two-inch-wide, laser-cut pendant made from white, black, and red acrylic. Best of all, it's totally handmade so you know you're getting something that was made with love. Vinyl holds a special place in my heart, which urges me to click the "Love it!" button below. What do you think?
This turntable may look pretty minimal, but that doesn't mean the price tag is small. Can you guess how much this high-end record player costs?
If the $1,300 Barky Wood 
Turntable isn't up your alley (or in your price range!), here's an affordable but still wood-enhanced alternative. The Wood Turntable ($88) from Urban Outfitters pairs retro design with modern features in a classy yet affordable record player. It has built-in speakers and volume control, a headphone jack, and an AM/FM radio, too. It's the latest record player from one of my favorite stores, known for its retro-style finds.
A vintage mod record player may add a touch of Mad Men to your home, but this earthy Barky Turntable ($1,298) from Anthropologie reeks of coolness . . . if you can afford it.
I wouldn't think that a piece of wood and glass would cost a cool grand, but considering that it's handmade, and the designer successfully got the motor and arm in without making it look bulky or displaced, you gotta give some props. Oh, and let's not fool ourselves — Anthropologie isn't known for their inexpensive tech treats, mmkay?
