# 80s-Inspired Speaker Systems The 'Monster Blaster' Made Its Debut at CES 2016 By Katherine Pendrill | Published 2016-01-08 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/monster-blaster References: [fortune](http://fortune.com/2016/01/05/monster-boombox-1980s/) & [monsterproducts](https://www.monsterproducts.com/SuperStar-Monster-Blaster-Portable-Bluetooth-Boom-Box) While many of the audio systems debuted at CES 2016 were smaller and more compact than ever, the 'Monster Blaster' offers a hefty, 80s-inspired speaker system for consumers who have yet to toss their vintage boomboxes. The Monster Blaster is a pyramid-shaped speaker system that is inspired by the boomboxes of the 1980s. The speakers features a familiar shape that makes them perfect for carrying on your shoulder as your blast your favorite tunes. However, the [vintage exterior](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vintageinspired-technology-tech-brand-kickbacks-discman-is-nostalgic) is just about all the Monster Blaster has in common with old school boomboxes. The speakers boast several high-tech features such as [Bluetooth compatibility](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/soundboks), an integrated subwoofer, a USB charging slot and a rechargeable battery. All of these features make the boombox-inspired speakers compatible with contemporary devices. Similar to [turntables and vinyl records](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/victrola-soundstage), the new Monster speaker system demonstrates a growing demand for high-end products that pay homage to bygone eras. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.6/10 - Popularity: 63% | Activity: 66% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Vintage-inspired Speaker Systems:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create speaker systems that combine vintage aesthetics with modern features, appealing to consumers nostalgic for bygone eras. - **Retro Tech Revival:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop new products that embrace the nostalgia for older technologies, catering to consumers seeking a mix of vintage charm and modern convenience. - **Integration of Old and New:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Merge retro designs with advanced technologies, offering consumers the best of both worlds and satisfying their desire for nostalgia and innovation. ### Where This Applies - **Audio Equipment Manufacturing:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Focus on designing and producing vintage-inspired speaker systems that cater to consumers' desires for both style and functionality. - **Consumer Electronics:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Invest in developing retro-themed tech products that tap into the growing market of consumers seeking a blend of nostalgia and modern capabilities. - **Wireless Technology:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the integration of Bluetooth and wireless connectivity with vintage designs, creating a unique selling proposition in the audio market. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Modernized Retro Speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-memory.md) - [Powerful Vintage-Inspired Stereo Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/klipsch.md) - [Retro-Style Portable Speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/victrola-music-edition.md) - [Retro-Inspired Limited Speaker Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bellame.md) - [Speaker-Equipped Retro Coolers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kooltunes.md) - [Nostalgic Retro Music Capsules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/diy-mixtape-kit.md) - [Bass-Boosting Bluetooth Speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ult-power.md) - [Stylish Low-Tech Sound Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/frame-sound.md) - [Bluetooth Karaoke Setups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/inbase.md)