[tdogzthmn]

I really like the old retro "Hi-Fi" systems of the sixties and seventies, where a stereo was built into the furniture.  Are there any companies today that still make modern versions of these or does anyone know where I could find one of the more vintage ones?
 
 
 

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[mrarroyo]

You would be surprised at how cheap  you can pick a fully functioning vintage console in good shape. You will have to check out Goodwill, Craiglist, garage sales, etc.

 

[5aces]

Plenty of custom potential if you want to go that route.I really enjoy vintage gear too.
Look to the older people in your neighborhood,tell them what you are looking for and follow up on the leads.
Older stuff is usually heavy,so local shopping is best-it's always easier if you live near a large metropolitan population,should be no probs living in San Fran!
I'm always on Kijiji,Craigslist and Canuck Audio Mart scouring the local ads for fun retro gear. 
 
I have a 1960's Garrard Console and will probably put a tube output into it like this:
 

 

[tdogzthmn]

Really cool.  My plan was to find and older system then tear out all the components and replace them with modern parts.

 

[Uncle Erik]

Go for it! You can DIY your own cabinetry, but it would take a lot of planning and labor; you're better off gutting and cleaning up an old one. Also, a lot of the old models are gorgeous and were designed by top-shelf industrial designers. Go poke around Craigslist and garage sales - a lot of people don't want these and they go cheap, especially if you have cash and can haul them away. Be careful not to trash everything inside. Some of them have nice integrated tube amps with phono stages, and a lot of the old tube FM tuners sound fantastic. When you find one, be sure to post pics. Oh, and you might want to look around Audiokarma. A lot of members there are into these old sets.

 

[tdogzthmn]

Quote:

Go for it! You can DIY your own cabinetry, but it would take a lot of planning and labor; you're better off gutting and cleaning up an old one. Also, a lot of the old models are gorgeous and were designed by top-shelf industrial designers. Go poke around Craigslist and garage sales - a lot of people don't want these and they go cheap, especially if you have cash and can haul them away. Be careful not to trash everything inside. Some of them have nice integrated tube amps with phono stages, and a lot of the old tube FM tuners sound fantastic. When you find one, be sure to post pics. Oh, and you might want to look around Audiokarma. A lot of members there are into these old sets.

I did just graduate with a degree in industrial design so I have some experience in the field.