Musician and entrepreneur Tom Vek is building a digital music player, but don’t call it retro
Musician Tom Vek is developing Sleevenote, a dedicated digital music player designed to restore the visual appeal and sense of ownership associated with album artwork and liner notes. He argues that renewed interest in offline listening should encourage genuinely new products rather than retro-styled CD and cassette players, and sees digital music purchases as an important part of that future.
Vek began exploring the concept in 2020, drawing inspiration from vinyl packaging, but early prototypes were large and difficult to manufacture because components such as square screens were hard to source. A newer version is smaller and cheaper, with the remaining Day One Editions priced at $349. Alongside Sleevenote, Vek continues his music career, having released albums including 2005’s We Have Sound and 2022’s Newer Symbols.
- Tom Vek is building a digital player focused on music ownership and artwork.
- Sleevenote aims for offline listening without relying on retro formats.
- Remaining Day One Editions cost $349.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters argue that Sleevenote could give digital music a more tangible, deliberate experience without pretending that past formats are the only answer. A purpose-built player with artwork and liner-note space may encourage fuller engagement with albums while allowing listeners to own files rather than depend entirely on streaming licences and internet access. They see modern hardware and digital purchases as a practical way to carry forward the cultural value of physical music packaging.
The case against
Sceptics argue that the appeal of vinyl, CDs and cassettes is bound partly to their physical materials, collectability and established ecosystems, which a digital device cannot fully reproduce. At $349, a dedicated player may be difficult to justify when phones already store music, display artwork and work with streaming services, while specialist portable-audio devices serve enthusiasts. They may also question whether renewed interest in offline listening is large enough to sustain another proprietary music product.