(November 22, 2019) Here's a bit of fun AV news to digest on this rather dreary Friday morning. An upstart audio company called Mixxim has introduced a retro-looking (yet assuredly high-tech) player and multi-streaming device called MIXXTAPE. Of course, the allure of MIXXTAPE is immediately evident to anyone that was upright as late as the 1990s, as it looks and feels just like a classic cassette tape.
Before we proceed any further, it's important to recognize that MIXXTAPE tip-toes dangerously close to territory previously dominated by traditional MP3 players, which have been largely dismissed by the robust capabilities and multi-function designs of modern smartphones. But, the device does have a few tricks up its sleeve to keep intrigue alive. First is file compatibility, which includes standard MP3s, FLAC (16-bit), AAC, WMA, WAV, OGG, ACELP, and APE files. Then there's its standard 8GB of internal memory that can be expanded to a lofty 256GB with an optional microSD card (2,000 to 62,000 songs). It also houses a 1" OLED screen.
Those are all noteworthy features.
To play MIXXTAPE, plug in any 3.5mm headphones (not included) and you're off and running. You can also tap onboard Bluetooth 4.0 for streaming to your favorite Bluetooth speaker or device. And for those of you looking for true nostalgia, play it in any cassette player not equipped with tape movement sensors. And to up the ante a tad more, it also carries a Bluetooth receiver that allows you to connect your phone to MIXXTAPE for phone-playback when it's in a tape deck!
As for downsides, there's the price (which currently sits at $100) and battery life (a paltry five hours).
MIXXTAPE was initially launched as a Kickstarter product, achieving max funding (plus!) in 30 days. The device's inventor, Paul Burns, is overwhelmed by the popular response, saying: "I think people just love the nostalgic feeling MIXXTAPE gives them. And by combining digital and analog elements, it gives people an opportunity to be creative and express themselves in fun and unique ways."
