Modify a retro (old ghetto blaster) with Bluetooth

[Johadart]

Hi, I’m trying to find how I can add Bluetooth to an old ghetto blaster, all still works fine, even the twin tape decks, but as we all know, cassettes aren’t made nowadays, any help using 240v would be appreciated, thankyou in advance..

[retiredfeline]

You can buy bluetooth receiver modules from Aliexpress for not much that accept a BT connection and put out line level output. All you need to do is find a way to power the module and feed the audio to the amplifier in the ghetto blaster.

Here's an example of one: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003780419402.html

You can use a regulator IC to get 5V if the ghetto blaster electronics uses a higher voltage. Hopefully it will be negative ground. The output can go to the switch that selects the audio source, replacing the cassette deck input. I wouldn't worry about controlling power to the module, its current consumption will be negligible.

[RoGeorge]

Does it has to be Bluetooth?  Sometimes I do this:

The World's Simplest Hack: iPod Party Amplifier
RoGeorgeRoGeorge


 

[Andy Chee]

Hi, I’m trying to find how I can add Bluetooth to an old ghetto blaster, all still works fine, even the twin tape decks, but as we all know, cassettes aren’t made nowadays, any help using 240v would be appreciated, thankyou in advance..

There are several ways to skin a cat....

Start with a schematic, without it you will have to rely on your analytical skills in order to find the tape audio signal into the source selector switch. This is where you will disconnect the tape audio and connect your Bluetooth audio. 

You'll also need to find a suitable voltage source for your Bluetooth module.  The source selector switch sometimes switches power on & off to the tape head amp and motors, but it may also be the tape deck buttons (play, rec, rewind, ffwd).

HOWEVER

By far the easiest solution might be to use a Bluetooth car cassette adaptor.

[pienari]

I have used bt module like this.
Bluetooth 5.0 Board Module 3.7-5V XY-BT-Mini
https://a.aliexpress.com/_EQcCrfV

[BeBuLamar]

If you want bluetooth then of course there are small bluetooth receiver that you can use. You can use the cassette adapter like others have said but you can use an FM transmtter connect to your source device and use the FM radio of the ghetto blaster to receive.

[geggi1]

Check if it got a line in of some kind. Then you can either hack in to the circuit or use a external battery powered bluetooth sound card.
Another option is to get one of these microwatt FM transmitters and use the reciever.