Philips, the storied Dutch company that started in Eindhoven back in 1891, is marking more than a century of audio craftsmanship by dipping into the past in a big way. Known worldwide for everything from consumer electronics to healthcare solutions, Philips is unveiling the Century Series, a line of five devices that channel retro appeal while pointing toward a greener, sleeker tomorrow.
Two turntables, two distinct headphone styles, and a DAB/FM radio form the heart of this collection, all wrapped in designs that nod to a bygone era. The Ringo (Philips H2000) is an on-ear wireless model that comes in Crystal Teal, Deep Black, or Silk White, using 40mm drivers and Bluetooth 5.4 technology to offer up to 20 hours of playback. It neatly pairs with the Philips Headphones app for those who demand a fuss-free listening experience. On the other end of the headphone spectrum is The Freddie (Philips SHP9500CY), aimed at the home listener who craves an immersive sonic world. Its 50mm drivers and double-layered ear cushions set the stage for expansive sound, while the detachable cable invites easy upgrades.
For portable radio, The Janet (Philips V2000) stands out with its nostalgic grille and larger logo, balanced by a 2.4-inch color TFT display. It streams from mobile devices via Bluetooth and doubles as an alarm clock with a built-in battery that goes for 16 hours. Beyond reviving timeless designs, Philips is emphasizing sustainability. The brand incorporates post-consumer recycled plastics throughout the Century Series, swaps out packaging materials for plastic-free alternatives, and makes battery components (like in The Janet) easier to replace.
True to its vinyl roots, Philips introduces The Stevie (Philips V3000), described as either “my first all-in-one turntable system” or “an easy return to vinyl.” Geared toward newbies or those seeking an uncomplicated setup, it has built-in speakers, an Audio Technica MM cartridge, and handy extras like Bluetooth and audio inputs. Its sibling, The Tina (Philips V9000), pushes the envelope with 120W of power, an integrated DAB+ and FM tuner, plus USB audio and streaming capabilities. Both can link to external speakers, and The Tina even features an app-based control for those who crave a more high-tech approach.
It’s worth noting that for all the vintage focus, Philips hasn’t included a nod to two of its most groundbreaking achievements: the compact cassette of the late 1960s and the compact disc of the early 1980s. Could something else be around the corner for these resurgent formats? Either way, the Century Series is a strong salute to Philips’s legacy, ready to drop in Autumn 2025 with prices yet to be revealed.
