Usher’s Super Bowl halftime performance struck a chord with many, especially if his songs were intertwined with memories of meeting a significant other.
This sentiment underscores the importance of having a CD player in your car, a feature that held significant relevance around two decades ago.
The owners are thrilled to discover that the long-term 2023 Subaru WRX offered an optional compact disc player for a modest $375. Without hesitation, we opted for it.
CD players were once a staple in vehicles, dominating the mobile music scene after surpassing cassette players in the 1990s. However, with the advent of numerous streaming services, satellite radio, and the convenience of storing music on smartphones, CD players have gradually faded from new car features.
Nevertheless, the WRX retains this nostalgic feature. Positioned neatly in the center console, it evokes a sense of familiarity as you slide your favorite disc into place.
Listening to an album in its entirety has become a rarity, making each track a journey of rediscovery amidst the cacophony of modern streaming platforms. Moreover, purchasing physical CDs still holds appeal, offering a tangible connection to musical history.
Admittedly, the center console-mounted player does pose a challenge in terms of accommodating CD cases. Nonetheless, storing them in the glove box echoes a familiar practice reminiscent of older vehicles.
Driving the WRX demands full concentration, especially when maneuvering its six gears and heavy clutch.
Yet, amidst the complexities of the road, the presence of an old album playing in the background serves as a form of catharsis. It’s a moment of focused release, where driving becomes an immersive experience complemented by a fitting soundtrack.
