The Seagull Bluetooth PCB was specially designed for converting antique radios into high quality Bluetooth powered speakers. The retrofit is easily reversible so the radio can easily be converted back to an AM radio in the future.
Our PCB preserves the user experience of the original radio. The original on/off/volume knob turns the speaker on and off and also controls volume. Volume can also be controlled by your phone or computer. Our PCB also controls the dial lights on the radio so they turn on and off with the on/off/volume knob. The PCB also supports tone adjustment with a potentiometer.
Pairing and connecting to the retrofit is very simple. The PCB will enter pairing mode whenever the radio is turned on, or you can add a pairing switch (usually the band switch). During pairing, the PCB will broadcast a message on your phone or computer (you can specify the message!) and the dial lights will flash. The dial lights will glow solidly if a device pairs or connects with it or if 3 minutes elapses. Once your device is paired, just connect to it any time the radio is on.
The PCB will drive up to three 6.3V Type 47 incandescent lamps or three Type 47 replacement LEDs.
The PCB’s AUX input also accepts line level stereo analog inputs from a CD player or turntable. Note that if you use a turntable, you’ll either need a preamplifier or you’ll need a turntable with a built-in preamplifier.
The Seagull PCB produces outstanding sound quality. With an 8 Ohm speaker it delivers 12 undistorted Watts. With a 4 Ohm speaker it delivers 24 undistorted Watts. Noise and hum is less than 1.5 mVAC. Tone control provides between -2.6 and +9.6 dB bass boost.
Finally, the Seagull PCB is a high quality product supported by clear instructions and customer support. Our desire is to provide a product that matches the quality of your antique radio and the craftsmanship you will put into the retrofit.
Please note that the Seagull PCB does NOT drive field coil speakers, so you’ll have to buy a speaker for your retrofit. Sources for speakers are included in the instructions.
Feature Summary
- Preserves the user experience of the original radio.
- Personalized pairing message (such as “Philco Model 66”)
- Detailed instructions and customer support.
- Preserves the value of radio because retrofit is easily reversible.
- Optional Potentiometer and Wiring Kit saves trips to the hardware store and shipping costs from specialized suppliers.
- High quality DC power supply included.
- Power can be reduced to 2 Watts for smaller radios.
- No audio hum or noise because audio is not routed through volume and tone pots.
- Drives incandescent or LED dial lights.
- Jumper selections for audio taper or linear potentiometers.
- Dial light flashing during pairing can be disabled with a jumper.