Old School, Still Cool – LASER Launches New Retro Tech As Aussies Embrace Nostalgia And Personal Connection

LASER, Australia’s home-grown consumer electronics success story, has expanded its popular range of “retro tech”, adding a new Cassette Boombox, Bluetooth Turntable, lava lamp and retro gaming options to its range. Australia is seeing a major retro revival, as both the young and young-at-heart turn to “analogue bags” filled with Sudoku books and crochet tools, dumb phones and digital cameras. The trend has seen LASER experience a three-fold increase in retro tech sales, with growth in this space set to grow further as LASER increases its range and retailer availability.

LASER has tapped into this shift with a new range of retro-inspired products, adding a lava lamp Bluetooth speaker, portable turntable, mini digital cameras and cassette boomboxes to its retro range.

A recent Australian Youth Digital Index survey of more than 5,000 people aged eight to 25 found 36 per cent said the internet and devices negatively impacted their sleep.* Meanwhile, studies show 76 per cent of Zoomer respondents say they are drawn to “retro tech”, with Gen Z – born between 1997 and 2012 – increasingly turning to vinyl and other old-school technologies in search of stability.**

“We don’t see this as just another trend, but moreso a cultural shift. After 40 years in the consumer tech market, we’ve seen countless trends come and go. But one thing has remained constant – retro has never disappeared. And right now, Australia is in the midst of a major retro revival.” said Chris Lau.

“In a world of constant technological change and growing anxiety around AI, Aussies are craving experiences that feel real – not just digital. Retro is becoming a lifestyle choice and a way for people to disconnect from their phones and reconnect with real-world experiences”

“At LASER, retro is more than nostalgia, it’s about reimagining classic design with modern performance. Take our portable cassette player: it keeps the charm of old-school mixtapes while adding Bluetooth so you can stream straight from your smartphone. The same can be said for the lava lamp, now paired with a Bluetooth speaker on board.”

“For LASER, the resurgence of retro has been both nostalgic and exciting as we approach our 40th anniversary next year,” said Lau. “We started out selling DVDs and CDs, and it’s been incredible to see people still cherish physical media as they dust off their old movie collections and reliving those classics. DVD players have remained one of our best-selling categories over the last five years, showing Aussies still want entertainment that’s tangible, simple and affordable.”

LASER’s New Retro Range includes:

LASER Retro Portable Cassette Boombox | RRP $99.95

Retailers- Laser Co, The Good Guys, and JB Hi-Fi

Relive the golden age of mixtapes with the LASER Retro Series Portable Cassette Boombox. Combining classic 70s and 80s design with modern technology, it plays cassettes, streams via Bluetooth, and supports USB, microSD, and AM/FM radio. Record your own mixes directly from Bluetooth or other sources, and fine-tune the sound with dedicated bass and treble controls. Two-way stereo speakers deliver rich, room-filling audio, while authentic controls, a telescopic antenna, and a sturdy carry handle complete the retro experience. Portable with battery or plug-in power, it’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and modern convenience for music lovers on the move.

LASER Retro Bluetooth Turntable With Built In Speakers | RRP $69.95

Retailers- Laser Co, BIG W, and Amazon

The LASER Bluetooth Suitcase Turntable combines retro styling with modern convenience, letting you enjoy records instantly through its built-in stereo speakers- no complicated setup needed. With 33, 45, and 78 RPM playback, it handles your entire vinyl collection with ease. Stream wirelessly via Bluetooth, or connect your way using AUX, RCA, or headphones for total flexibility. Compact, portable, and finished in a classic suitcase design, it’s made to move with you from room to room. Just plug in, drop the needle, and let your music take over.

LASER Retro Lava Lamp with Bluetooth speaker | RRP $69.95

Retailers- Laser Co, Amazon, and BIG W

Bring back the glow of the 70s with a modern twist. The LASER Retro Series Lava Lamp with Bluetooth Speaker combines classic lava flow ambience with rich, wireless sound. Watch the soothing wax motion create a warm, retro atmosphere while streaming your favourite music directly from your phone. With Bluetooth and 3.5mm Aux input options, it’s as versatile as it is stylish. Featuring a sleek black base and built-in speaker, it is a retro charm, reimagined for today.

LASER Gaming Projector | RRP 299

Retailers- Laser Co, Harvey Norman,JB Hi-Fi, and Bing Lee

LASER is bringing back the golden age of gaming with the launch of its all-new Retro Gaming Projector – a portable, all-in-one entertainment hub built for nostalgia-fueled nights and big-screen arcade fun. Pre-loaded with 80+ retro titles, including fan favourites like Street Racer and Glover, it also supports built-in ROM emulators for iconic consoles like NES, SNES, Mega Drive, SEGA Genesis, N64, Game Boy, Atari, and more. Whether you’re revisiting childhood classics or discovering them for the first time, this projector lets you enjoy immersive retro gameplay anywhere, anytime, no console required!

LASER Handheld Retro Console 3.5 inch 50 Games | RRP $129.95

Retailers- Laser Co, BIG W, The Good Guys

The LASER Handheld Retro Console is your pocket-sized dose of nostalgia. Featuring a vibrant 3.5-inch display and 50 preloaded licensed retro games, it’s ready to play straight out of the box. Dual joysticks and responsive controls deliver an authentic arcade feel, while built-in emulation supports classics from NES, SNES, Game Boy, Sega Mega Drive, and NeoGeo. Lightweight and travel-friendly, it’s powered by a 3000mAh rechargeable battery with USB-C fast charging for gaming on the go. With Wi-Fi multiplayer capability, it’s perfect for solo play or connecting with friends anywhere, anytime.