The Fuse Audio GLD: Elevating Your Vinyl
It’s 2024, vinyl revival is still spinning strong. Fuse Audio’s latest release, the GLD, is about to make it spin in style. Imagine your prized vinyl collection, the latest colourful limited (re)edition no longer gathering dust on a shelf but proudly displayed like an art installation on a record player that’s as much a statement piece as it is an audio funhouse. It’s not just about the sound anymore—this is about showing off your favourite records while they literally turn heads.
Behind the gleaming GLD is Joseph Wu, a man whose passion for mid-century design and love of vinyl collided back in 2018 to create Fuse Audio. What started as a quest to display his colourful vinyl collection in all its glory has now grown into a brand known for its vertical vinyl players. And with the GLD, Joseph could hit a new high – creating a player that blends form, function, and just the right amount of fancy.
A Touch of Gold
So, what’s in a name? The GLD gets its moniker from those tasteful gold accents that frame the player, giving it a touch of luxury without going OTT. It’s like wearing a watch that just happens to match your shoes – understated but undeniably classy. For those who prefer something sleeker, a black trim version is also on its way, but it’ll still carry the GLD name. Why? Because who doesn’t like the sound of a little gold?
Then there’s the Ashtree wood veneer, which wraps the GLD in a layer of natural beauty. No fake wood or PVC here – just real grain and texture, because as Joseph puts it, “real wood is something that cannot be replicated.” It’s this attention to detail that makes the GLD more than just another turntable; it’s a piece of furniture, a conversation starter, and, let’s be honest, a bit of a show-off.
The Vertical Evolution of Vinyl
While Fuse Audio might not have invented the vertical record player, they’ve certainly contributed to the evolution. Going vertical might sound futuristic, but this design has been around for a while. You might have heard of the Sharp VZ-2000 from the ’80s – a giant boombox with a built-in vertical player that was more about volume than elegance. Then there’s the Toc from Gramovox, a sleek, minimalist vertical player that’s been turning heads in high-end audio circles. And if you’re looking for something truly upscale, Pro-Ject Audio even dabbled in verticality with their statement Vertical Turntable VT-E. But Fuse Audio? They’ve taken all the best bits and made it, in many ways, even better.
The GLD doesn’t just put your records on display for the sake of it; it turns them into an integral part of your home’s design. Think of it like hanging a painting, except this artwork spins and makes music while doing so. And let’s face it, anyone who walks into your living room is going to ask, “What is that?” before they’ve even heard a single note.
Sound That Stands Up
Now, we’re not just here to talk about looks – though the GLD does look pretty cool. The sound, as you’d expect, is equally impressive. The GLD comes with 36W external speakers, each fitted with a 1” tweeter and a 4” woofer, delivering crisp highs and satisfyingly deep bass. It’s not the kind of player that’ll have you longing for your old hi-fi setup. Instead, it’ll have you wondering why you didn’t go vertical sooner.
And because it’s 2024, the GLD is Bluetooth-enabled – both in and out. That means you can stream your vinyl to Bluetooth speakers or headphones without a mess of wires, or, if you’re feeling a bit lazy, stream music straight from your phone to the player. It’s vinyl with a modern twist, bringing the old-school charm of records into the high-tech world of smart devices and wireless everything.
Designed with a Story
Design isn’t just an afterthought at Fuse Audio – it’s the driving force behind everything they do. Joseph Wu has always had a love for modern aesthetics, which is why the GLD looks like it belongs in a 1960s design magazine. Clean lines, rich wood tones, and minimalist hardware choices make the player as pleasing to look at as it is to listen to.
One thing Fuse Audio does differently with the GLD compared to their previous models is the separation of the external speakers. In the past, their players were all-in-one, with the speakers built right in. But with the GLD, Joseph wanted to take things up a notch, creating something more sophisticated that still fit the brand’s minimalist ethos.
And while the GLD is produced using modern manufacturing techniques, hand-applied finishing touches – like that beautiful wood veneer – mean each piece is unique. There’s a personal, almost handcrafted quality to every unit, making it feel more like a collector’s item than a mass-produced gadget.
The Best of Both Worlds: Audiophiles and Design Buffs, Rejoice
Who exactly is the GLD for? It’s for those who appreciate both sound and style. If you’re an audiophile who cringes at the sight of ugly, tech-heavy sound systems, this is your answer. And if you’re a design lover who wouldn’t be caught dead with a clunky old turntable, then congratulations – you’ve found your new favourite piece of decor.
But here’s the kicker: you don’t have to shell out a fortune to own one. The GLD is, as Joseph puts it, “a luxurious offering that’s still approachable.” It’s not bargain-bin cheap, but for a high-end record player that doubles as art, it’s definitely within reach of those who appreciate craftsmanship and design.
Craftsmanship and Sustainability? Yes, Please.
At this point, you’re probably wondering: is this thing sustainable? Short answer: yes. The Ashtree wood used in the GLD comes from responsibly managed forests, and Fuse Audio’s commitment to using eco-friendly materials and processes means you can feel good about your stylish new toy. Plus, the GLD is built to last, so you won’t need to replace it any time soon—another win for sustainability.
When Can You Get Your Hands on It?
Here’s the good news: the Fuse Audio GLD will be available for pre-order on Kickstarter starting October 15, 2024. For those who prefer to wait and see, the GLD will hit select high-end audio retailers and boutique stores early next year. And if you happen to be at CES 2025, make sure to swing by Fuse Audio’s booth – they’ve been showcasing there for the past couple of years, and the GLD will no doubt be a turning heads at the show.
Time to Turn Your Vinyl (And Your Living Room) Upright
In a sea of horizontal record players, the Fuse Audio GLD dares to go vertical – and it pulls it off with style. Whether you’re in it for the sound, the design, or just want something that’ll have your guests saying “Wow,” the GLD hits all the right notes. With its classic charm, modern connectivity, and a dash of luxury, this record player isn’t just something you’ll use – it’s something you’ll want to show off.
So, if you’re looking to elevate both your vinyl experience and your home decor, the GLD might just be the turntable you didn’t know you needed.
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Further information: https://fuseaudio.net/
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