Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $499

Standard/Professional

$300

$801+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Teenage Engineering OB-4 Magic Radio". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Teenage Engineering OB-4 Magic Radio, a versatile musical instrument that transcends conventional audio devices. This ingenious gadget combines a high-end Bluetooth speaker with FM radio, recording, and unique playback functionalities, making it an ideal companion for both studio and on-the-go listening.

The OB-4's standout feature is its rolling two-hour recording capability, allowing you to rewind, loop, and time-bend audio effortlessly. Whether streaming via Bluetooth, tuning into FM radio, or connecting through a 3.5mm line-in jack, this magic radio ensures your favorite sounds are never out of reach. Its disk mode introduces a realm of experimental soundscapes, with ambient, karma, and metronome functions to inspire your next creative endeavor.

Powered by two 38W Class-D amplifiers, this active 2-way stereo speaker system delivers rich and dynamic sound through its tailor-engineered woofers and tweeters. The OB-4's battery life is equally impressive, offering up to 72 hours of FM listening and 8 hours at maximum volume, ensuring your musical journey isn't cut short.

Its innovative design includes a gel-damped handle that doubles as a stand, and a smart spiral antenna for seamless FM reception. The intuitive motorized user interface, with a digital motion-controlled volume knob, adds a tactile dimension to your audio experience.

Key Features:

  • Active 2-way stereo speaker system with Class D amplifier
  • Bluetooth audio (A2DP / stereo AAC, BT 5 LE)
  • Rolling two-hour recording loop
  • Motorized volume and tape control
  • Integrated smart spiral antenna
  • Gel-damped handle for portability
  • 72-hour FM listening battery life
  • Disk mode with experimental sound features
  • Frequency range: 52 - 25,000 Hz
  • 3.5mm stereo input

Product specs

Available since December 2022
Power (Manufacturers Specs) 76 W
Bass Speaker in Inch 4"
Ways 1-Way
Colour Black
Weight 1,7 kg
Accu Yes
Trolley No
Monitor Angle No
Construction Type Standard
Using for Lifestyle
Analog Inputs 0
Microphone Input 0
Line Input No
Media Player No
Voice Assistant No
Remote Control BT
True Wireless Stereo Yes
Wireless Mic Handhleld / Headset No
Effect No
Width 233 mm
Depth 58 mm
Height 284 mm
Numbers of HT Speaker 0
Number of HT-Speaker 0
HT Speaker in Inch No
Number of Midrange Speaker 0
Midrange Speaker in Inch No
Number of Bass Speaker 2
Line Out No
Batterie Info up to 72 Hours FM-Radio, up to 8 Hours on max. Volume
Batterie Information up to 72 Hours (FM Radio), up to 8 Hours by max. Power
Housing Material Plastic
Construction Standard
Stand Flange No
Flyable No
Microphon Input 0
EQ per Channel No
Wireless Mic Handheld / Handheld No
Vertical Beam Angle 70 °
Frequency Range (-10dB) from 52 Hz
Frequency Range (-10dB) to 25000 Hz
Low Cut No
Ground Lift No
Voice Assistent No

FAQs

What makes the Teenage Engineering OB-4 Magic Radio unique compared to other portable speakers?

The OB-4 Magic Radio is unique due to its ability to record and loop up to two hours of audio, as well as its integration with Bluetooth for wireless streaming and control via the Orthoplay app.

How long does the battery last on the Teenage Engineering OB-4 Magic Radio?

The OB-4 can last up to 72 hours when used as an FM radio and up to 8 hours at maximum volume.

Is the Teenage Engineering OB-4 suitable for outdoor use?

While the OB-4 is portable and has a robust battery life, it is not specifically designed for rugged outdoor conditions. Its performance is optimized for lifestyle and indoor settings.

Can the Teenage Engineering OB-4 Magic Radio be used with a remote control?

Yes, the OB-4 can be controlled remotely through Bluetooth using the Orthoplay app, which allows for wireless volume adjustment and more.

Does the Teenage Engineering OB-4 Magic Radio support stereo sound?

Yes, the OB-4 supports True Wireless Stereo, allowing for immersive stereo sound when paired with another compatible speaker.

Liam Killen

Liam Killen

Teenage Engineering OB-4 // What's all the Hocus Pocus About?

Video thumbnail for Teenage Engineering OB-4 // What's all the Hocus Pocus About? by Liam Killen

Teenage Engineering OB-4 // What's all the Hocus Pocus About?

Liam Killen

Liam Killen

Video thumbnail for OB–4 overview by teenage engineering

OB–4 overview

teenage engineering

teenage engineering

Video thumbnail for OB–4 the magic radio by teenage engineering

OB–4 the magic radio

teenage engineering

teenage engineering

Video thumbnail for OB-4 Teenage Engineering "Review" by Josh Raab

OB-4 Teenage Engineering "Review"

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Josh Raab

Video thumbnail for Teenage Engineering OB-4 | Full Demo and Review by Happy Mag

Teenage Engineering OB-4 | Full Demo and Review

Happy Mag

Happy Mag

Video thumbnail for Teenage Engineering OB-4 - The Future of Synths by Synths with Leo

Teenage Engineering OB-4 - The Future of Synths

Synths with Leo

Synths with Leo

Video thumbnail for Why I Love the Teenage Engineering OB-4 🖤⚫ by Khordmaster

Why I Love the Teenage Engineering OB-4 🖤⚫

Khordmaster

Khordmaster

Video thumbnail for How to record your OB-4 Magic Radio || Teenage Engineering by Shimmery.mp3

How to record your OB-4 Magic Radio || Teenage Engineering

Shimmery.mp3

Shimmery.mp3

Video thumbnail for Teenage Engineering OB-4 Tips and Tricks by Khordmaster

Teenage Engineering OB-4 Tips and Tricks

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Khordmaster

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent sound quality for its size, with rich bass and crisp highs

  • Unique spooling and looping features for creative play

  • Portable and compact design with good battery life

  • Eye-catching, gorgeous, and minimalistic design

  • High-quality build materials, enhancing its premium feel

  • Solid Bluetooth interface, ideal for simple device pairing

CONS

  • Manual radio tuning; poor UX without station presets

  • Lacks WiFi/AirPlay support and line-out options

  • Challenging Bluetooth configuration for multiple devices

  • Delicate dial design raises durability concerns

  • Tall, thin design risks stability, prone to tipping over

  • High price point compared to similar products

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Teenage Engineering OB-4 Magic Radio.

Features and functionality

  • The OB-4 includes a metronome feature, useful for musicians practicing instruments like the ukulele.

    Source
  • The OB-4 includes a motorized volume knob with haptic feedback, enhancing user interaction when switching settings in Looper mode.

    Source
  • The OB-4's ambient mode allows users to adjust the ambient mix level, offering control over how much original music blends with the ambient sound.

    Source
  • Ambient mode can be directly fed from a line-in by long-holding the play button, allowing for versatile input sources beyond radio.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Despite reported fragility, some owners use the OB-4 for beat-making with low frequencies, though they find its bass performance lacking compared to other speakers.

    Source
  • The OB-4's zero-latency aux-in is ideal for live instrument playback, avoiding the latency issues common with Bluetooth.

    Source
  • It’s ideal for sampling enthusiasts interested in plunderphonics and sound collage, allowing manipulation of tracks with loop and reverse functions.

    Source
  • Users note its ability to create unique sound collages using FM radio as a source for unexpected and interesting results.

    Source
  • The OB-4's battery life supports multiple days of use without a recharge when not played at maximum volume.

    Source

User experience

  • A few users have successfully received cheap replacement knobs from TE by specifically requesting them, though this is not an advertised solution.

    Source
  • Owners noted that the OB-4 is particularly susceptible to damage from falls, with some reporting that a simple desk bump can cause significant issues.

    Source
  • Owners report that the OB-4's volume knob physically adjusts when changing volume via phone, adding a tactile element to the experience.

    Source
  • Carrying the OB-4 outside is cumbersome due to its weight, making it less portable than typical Bluetooth speakers.

    Source
  • Despite the lack of a line-out, users find mic-ing the OB-4 similar to recording a guitar cab, offering creative recording opportunities.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some users report that inserting the TE audio cable too far can cause sound issues, suggesting a delicate cable insertion setup.

    Source
  • To preserve battery health, avoid leaving the OB-4 plugged in after charging, as it can degrade the battery over time.

    Source

Build quality

  • The volume knob is prone to detachment upon falls, highlighting a design flaw where the knob is not securely attached to the device.

    Source
  • The OB-4's exposed speaker cones can be vulnerable to damage, prompting some owners to handle it with extra care to avoid puncturing.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Teenage Engineering OB-4 review

engadget.com

The Teenage Engineering OB-4 Magic Radio is a quirky, stylish speaker that offers a unique take on audio playback, allowing users to remix what they listen to in real-time. Its design is both eye-catching and functional, featuring a motorized volume dial that adds an engaging tactile element. However, its steep price tag of $600 raises questions about its overall value, especially when lacking features like smart integration or line-out options. While the OB-4 excels in creativity and sound quality, it may not suit everyone’s practical needs, leaving some potential buyers pondering its true purpose.

Teenage Engineering OB-4 review | Stuff

stuff.tv

The Teenage Engineering OB-4 Magic Radio stands out as an audacious blend of vintage charm and modern tech wizardry. With a stunning design, excellent sound quality, and an impressive 40-hour battery life, it's a conversation starter that delivers on performance. However, its hefty price tag raises eyebrows, and the lack of DAB radio is a notable drawback. While its quirky features—like the ability to record live FM radio—are undeniably fun, they may seem pointless to some. If you’re ready to embrace its eccentricities, the OB-4 offers an addictive audio experience that’s hard to resist.

positive

Teenage Engineering OB-4

tonepublications.com

Teenage Engineering's OB-4 Magic Radio is a nostalgic nod to classic boom boxes, infused with modern tech and quirky features. This portable powerhouse delivers impressive sound quality, with a stylish design that’s both durable and user-friendly. The innovative “rolling tape” feature and Bluetooth connectivity add to its charm, making it a fun companion for music lovers. However, potential buyers should note the lack of high-resolution streaming and the vulnerability of its midrange drivers, which could be a concern during transport. Priced at $649, it may not be the cheapest option, but for those who prioritize sound quality and unique design, the OB-4 is a worthwhile investment that stands out in a crowded market.

positive

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