LG's DukeBox puts vacuum tube audio behind a transparent OLED display

CES 2024 is just around the corner and tech companies are already providing sneak peeks of what we can expect to see on the ground in Las Vegas. LG is bringing a range of wonderful, weird gadgets to the showcase, including the newly announced DukeBox by LG Labs. The audio device marries old and new with vacuum tube audio working alongside transparent OLED panel technology.

Vacuum tube audio has been around for over 100 years and is beloved for its ability to produce a warm sound quality that highlights each instrument — almost creating the sense that musicians are playing the music live. The DukeBox utilizes this technology alongside front-facing bottom speakers and 360-degree speakers on top. The vacuum pipes remain visible for an extra retro feel, though the OLED display's transparency is adjustable.

The DukeBox is kind of like a smart speaker for people who want a more sleek, retro design. While it's reminiscent of old jukeboxes, this device isn't exclusive to music. It has the option to play content like movies or even create a "fireplace" with the tubes visible along the flames.

LG claims its Labs zone at CES 2024 will be twice the size of last year's space. The company has also announced other products that will be on display, like the CineBeam Qube, a 4K projector with 3,840 x 2,160 resolution images measuring up to 120 inches. The three-pound device also has image-mapping and a handle that could pass for a crank.

Neither the DukeBox or the CineBeam Qube currently have a release date or price. LG will likely release more information on these and other new products at CES this month. The showcase should also give us a chance to test out the products' quality for ourselves and provide an informed recommendation.

We're reporting live from CES 2024 in Las Vegas from January 6-12. Keep up with all the latest news from the show here.