The legendary band Duran Duran has unveiled an incredible collaboration with We Are Rewind, resulting in the WE-001 Duran Duran Special Edition cassette player. This unique device is more than just a music player; it is a meticulously crafted artifact that channels the band’s renowned visual and sonic universe, injecting that iconic chrome and glamorous style directly into your hands. For longtime fans and new enthusiasts alike, this special-edition player perfectly encapsulates the era when cassettes were king, offering a premium way to engage with physical music.
To make this release even more special, the WE-001 includes a reissue of the band’s album Pop Trash on cassette. This thoughtful inclusion immediately provides listeners with a full-length album experience, tying the new hardware back to the band’s expansive catalog. The player itself has been engineered to deliver a modern listening experience, featuring true hi-fi sound and a unique headphone amplifier specifically optimized for cassette playback. It is a stunning piece of design that genuinely honors the spirit of the band.
Despite its nostalgic appeal, the WE-001 is packed with contemporary functionality. Forget hunting for AA batteries; this unit uses USB C charging for up to twelve hours of continuous playback. The construction uses an aluminum casing, giving it a premium, rugged feel that easily surpasses the plastic decks of decades past. Its most notable modern feature is the integrated Bluetooth connection, which allows listeners to pair their favorite tapes with wireless headphones or modern speakers, bridging the gap between analog purity and digital convenience.
The creative forces behind the project are clearly thrilled with the outcome. Duran Duran creative art director, designer, and photographer Andrew Day shared his enthusiasm, stating, “When Pop Trash was originally released, the internet was in its infancy and streaming really wasn’t a thing. Who knew that 25 years later, a cassette player would be a fitting way to celebrate its anniversary. The team at ‘We Are Rewind’ bent over backwards to make sure this wonderful collaboration with the band was a truly fitting one. The result is something that’s a lot more ‘Pop’, and a lot less ‘Trash’. Over the moon and back with the result, and I’m pretty sure Liberace would approve.” We Are Rewind Founder and CEO Romain Boudruche highlighted the band’s legacy: “Duran Duran always had a look, a sense of style and control of how they looked and how they sounded and their association with cassettes is clear. We’re delighted to work with the band and help music fans connect with the value of music and physical media in an age of streaming.” This partnership arrives as physical media experiences a notable resurgence, reinforcing the value of owning music in an increasingly stream-focused world. The WE-001 Duran Duran Special Edition is available for €169, $199, or £149 here.