Bring a Vintage 1940s Radio Back to Life

In this project, we will bring a vintage 1940s radio back to life by adding modern technology while preserving its nostalgic charm.

Using an Arduino Uno, a TEA5767 FM radio module, and an amplifier, we will transform the old radio into a functional FM receiver capable of tuning into today's radio stations.

The beauty of this project lies in combining the timeless design of the past with the convenience of modern technology. The audio output from the Arduino setup will be routed through the vintage radio’s speaker, creating a truly unique experience: listening to current radio broadcasts with the warm, classic sound of an old-fashioned radio.

The sound it produces, though not as crisp as modern technology, carries a warmth and depth that brings a sense of timelessness to any room.

Shopping list below (Amazon Associates links are used ;) )

1. An Arduino Uno board
2. A TEA5767 FM radio module, with its antenna
3. Latching LED pushbuttons (definitely choose some with pre-soldered cables)
4. A set of colored Dupont male male wires
5. A pack of resistors
6. One SSD1306 OLED display
7. The vintage radio was found on EBay for around 50 euros. The vendor told me it was originally from 1946

Explanations :

The Arduino Uno is a popular microcontroller board based on the ATmega328P chip, featuring 14 digital input/output pins, 6 analog inputs, and a USB connection for programming. It operates at 5V and is compatible with a variety of sensors and actuators.

The TEA5767 is a versatile FM radio receiver IC, capable of tuning to FM radio stations in the 87.5–108 MHz range. It communicates with microcontrollers via I2C, making it ideal for projects requiring FM radio functionality. Together, the Arduino Uno and TEA5767 can be used to create custom radio receivers and audio projects.

The vintage radio I found on EBay, from the mid-20th century is a charming piece of history, encased in Bakelite with a polished, glossy finish. The design features rounded edges, the radio face includes a scale with both AM and FM frequencies.

Connect the TEA5767: Wire the TEA5767 FM radio module to the Arduino Uno. Connect the module's SDA, SCL, and power pins to the Arduino’s corresponding pins.

I do not add here the circuit drawing. Many can be found on the internet typing "TEA5767 and Arduino Uno".

Connect the latch buttons

Add the SSD1306 OLED display

Add the Amplifier: Wire the audio output from the TEA5767 to the amplifier. Connect the amplifier to the speaker of the old radio, ensuring the power rating matches.

Power the Arduino: Use a 5V source to power the Arduino and TEA5767, such as a USB adapter or battery pack.

Download the code from GitHub : LINK

The predefined FM station names and frequencies are predefined for my area (Strasbourg, France).

You will need to change the constant tables in the code, at lines 24 and 26:

Using Arduino IDE, upload the .ino file to the Arduino UNO

Disassemble the Radio: Carefully remove the back of the vintage radio to expose the internal components. Locate the speaker and any unused space for your new components.

Connect the two audio cables out of the amplifier to the speaker.

Use the unused space to block the Arduino Uno, the latch buttons, the amplifier and the OLED display.

Fingers crossed ... and enjoy the good old sound :)