Posted Wed Jan 24, 2018 at 07:45 AM PST by Steven Cohen
The retro disc drive features modern playback support in an 80s aesthetic.
Etsy shop, RetroConnector, is now selling a unique Blu-ray drive with a decidedly nostalgic twist. Blending HD playback with old school looks, the device is actually housed inside a vintage Apple Disk II shell.
Swapping out 5 1/4'' floppy disk support for Blu-ray capabilities, the custom-modified drive uses the exterior casing of an actual Apple Disk II that has had its original internal mechanism and circuit boards replaced by a USB 3 Blu-ray drive. Likewise, the unit also has the ability to read and write CDs and DVDs. But outside of its modern insides and newly added USB and power connectors on the back, the device retains the original Disk II's 1978 design right down to a spring-loaded drive door complete with that trademark "thunk" you remember, and an LED light that blinks during disc activity. Check out the drive in action below!
RetroConnector's Blu-Ray/DVD drive in Disk II Floppy drive case is now available through Etsy for $500. Though the seller tries to use old drives that are in good shape, the listing does warn buyers that the vintage exteriors are still likely to include some signs of age. In addition, buyers can also opt to send in their own Apple Disk II drives to be converted instead for a $50 discount. Units are made to order and are estimated to ship out 3-4 weeks after purchase.
Source: RetroConnector (Etsy) via technabob
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