Transform Your Old CD-ROM Drive into a Stylish Audio Player
By Editor • August 18, 2026 • 1 min read
We all have that one drawer filled with outdated tech, including an unused CD-ROM drive that hasn't seen action in years. The Korean design studio das_POD has crafted a clever solution to repurpose these neglected drives with their CD-ROM PLAYER 01 kit.
This DIY audio kit allows you to turn a defunct optical drive into a functional CD player. It includes everything you need—laser-cut aluminum panels, a control board, and a power PCB—but you'll need to source the actual CD-ROM drive yourself. You can find one in your garage or purchase a refurbished model from das_POD for $10 to $40. Assembly is straightforward and requires only a multi-bit screwdriver, taking about 30 to 60 minutes, resulting in each player having a unique look based on the drive used.
Das_POD offers three finishes for the enclosure: a semi-gloss anodized version for $220, and matte black or orange for $190. The design features a minimal interface with a dot-matrix display and buttons for basic functions, while allowing the original drive branding to be visible, adding a touch of character.
However, there's a catch: the kit only works with older IDE drives, which are becoming increasingly rare, as they are essential for the player’s functionality. This limitation underscores the project’s goal of giving outdated technology a new lease on life.
Source: www.yankodesign.com
