CD players are enjoying an unexpected design revival, and Syitren’s new RM1 may be one of the prettiest examples yet. Rather than hiding the disc behind a tray or lid, the RM1 places it on full display within a transparent acrylic frame, turning the spinning CD, optical mechanism and exposed electronics into part of the visual experience. Mounted on a wall, it looks more like kinetic artwork than conventional hi-fi.

Syitren has been producing retro-inspired audio products since 2017, including turntables, Bluetooth speakers and portable CD players. The RM1 marks the brand’s first Kickstarter project, bringing its familiar mix of nostalgia and contemporary styling to a more design-led format.

The player sandwiches its components between two clear acrylic panels, with a warm-yellow 12 x 8 LED matrix displaying track numbers, volume, battery status and simple animations. Detachable supports allow it to stand on a desk or shelf, while integrated mounting points let it hang flat against a wall. Playback is controlled through a separate remote, keeping the frame itself clean and uncluttered.

Despite its art-object appearance, the RM1 remains a practical player. It supports conventional audio CDs as well as MP3 and WMA discs, with anti-shock buffering providing up to 40 seconds of protection for CDs and 120 seconds for MP3 playback. Bluetooth 5.3 enables wireless audio, while a 3.5 mm output connects to headphones, powered speakers or an existing stereo system. There are no built-in speakers.

A 2,000 mAh rechargeable battery provides around six to eight hours of playback and charges via USB-C. Measuring 260 x 260 x 42 mm and weighing just 0.9 kg, the RM1 is slim enough to work convincingly as part of an interior rather than simply another box of electronics.

The Syitren RM1 is currently being funded through Kickstarter, with the campaign running until 2 September 2026.