Retro tech continues on with its revival, and it’s not just about vinyl anymore. Cassette decks, MiniDisc players, and CD players are making a wave – not just as functional devices, but as nostalgic design objects. One such device riding the throwback wave is the ClearFrame CD Player, which combines the tactile satisfaction of physical media with the modern fascination for transparent tech.
Transparent electronics have always held a certain magic – think of the see-through Game Boy Color, Apple’s translucent iMac G3, or the clear cassette shells that let you watch reels turn as the music played. The ClearFrame taps into that same curiosity. Its acrylic frame lets you watch the CD spin, gears move, and lights glow, turning playback into a visual experience.
But it’s not just about peeking inside. The ClearFrame also elevates album art – an often-overlooked pleasure of the CD era – by letting you place the cover inside the device itself, transforming your music into a constantly changing wall display. The concept is summed up in Yanko Design’s tagline: “Play the disc. Frame the cover.”
The ClearFrame appears to be a renamed version of the BEAMS KM5 Instant Disc CP1, first launched last year, with the original KM5 branding still visible in certain product shots. It can be mounted on the wall or set on a tabletop stand, giving it the presence of both a music player and a gallery frame.
Despite its retro inspiration, the ClearFrame embraces modern convenience. It offers wired audio output for traditional setups and Bluetooth 5.1 for wireless headphones or speakers. The rechargeable battery lasts around 7–8 hours, and a USB-C port ensures quick charges. Playback options include continuous play, repeat-all, or looping a single track – perfect for immersive listening sessions.
The ClearFrame CD player is available for $199 at the YD Select store at Yanko Design.
