How to Build a Portable Radio with Stereo Speakers from an Old Beats Pill

Are you looking for a unique and portable way to enjoy your favorite FM stations with some bass and stereo speakers? Starting with an old Beats Pill can be a creative and cost-effective solution. In this guide, we will explore two methods to connect your Beats Pill to an FM radio to achieve a decent sound with some bass. However, we must keep in mind that using a pre-built FM radio is the best approach for reliability and ease of use.

Selecting the Right Components

Method 1: Using an External Bluetooth Interface

If your Beats Pill does not have a physical connector, you will need to add a Bluetooth interface unit. This method requires some technical skills but allows you to connect your device to an FM radio wirelessly.

Steps to Follow:

Purchase a Bluetooth interface unit that supports FM radio connections. Install the Bluetooth interface unit inside the Beats Pill. Pair the Bluetooth interface unit with an FM radio that has an earphone jack. Connect a cable to the earphone jack to the stereo speakers.

Method 2: Direct Connection with an FM Radio

If your Beats Pill has a physical connector, you can directly connect it to an FM radio. This method is simpler and more straightforward:

Steps to Follow:

Find an FM radio with an earphone jack. This FM radio can be a small transistor radio, a table model, or any model that has an earphone jack. Buy a cable to connect the earphone jack of the FM radio to the stereo speakers. Connect the Beats Pill to the FM radio using its physical connector.

If you do not have an FM radio with a connector, you can use a smartphone to tune into the FM station. Download a radio app and adjust the settings to pick up your desired station. Use a connecting cable or Bluetooth (since the Beats Pill has it) to connect the smartphone to the stereo speakers.

Enhancing Sound Quality for Bass

To achieve decent sound with some bass, you face a challenge with a DIY approach. Most portable devices like the Beats Pill do not have built-in sub-woofers, which are essential for producing bass. Here are a few options to consider:

Option 1: Expensive Self-Powered Subwoofer

For a truly customized setup, you might need an expensive self-powered sub-woofer. This would be a complex and costly solution, as it requires significant electronic experience.

Option 2: Off-the-Shelf Portable Radios

If you are looking for an easier and more budget-friendly solution, consider using a pre-built portable radio with excellent sound quality:

Recommended Models

GE Superadio: Known for its excellent audio quality, it is portable and costs less than $100. For a used but still functional model, it can be found for as low as $30. Zenith Royal 2000: Another excellent option with outstanding sound quality, it is worth considering if you can afford it.

Both of these models offer excellent audio performance and are much simpler to use than building a custom setup. They are also more reliable and offer a more enjoyable listening experience.

In conclusion, while it is technically possible to build a portable radio with stereo speakers from an old Beats Pill, it requires a significant investment of time and resources. Considering the options of using a pre-built FM radio or a portable radio with superior sound quality, such as the GE Superadio or Zenith Royal 2000, can save you the hassle and provide a better listening experience.