The turntable hooks up with a USB cable to a computer, where special software would turn the sound into MP3 or ATRAC format. The files can then be played on portable players such as iPods or put onto compact discs.

Converting vinyl to data files was already possible, but the process was so complicated that few save for committed technophiles know how to do it.

"With this product, we want to offer a simple way for everyone to convert their full record collection, which are often associated with so many memories," a Sony statement said.

But the turntable will not get rid of those scratches found on many old records. If the record skips or crackels, the imperfection will be reflected in the MP3 or ATRAC files.

And unlike CDs, which can be copied nearly instantly onto a computer, turning vinyl into computer files takes the full time of the recording.

The Sony machine, called PS-LX300USB, will go on sale in Japan in April at a price of around 29,000 yen (280 dollars).

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