Sony marries the seemingly disparate audio technologies of vinyl and high-resolution digital music at CES 2016 with the PS-HX500-- a "reference quality" turntable able to convert LPs into digital audio files.
A built-in analog/digital converter handles the digital transfer of LPs in either native DSD (up to 5.6MHz) or WAV (up to 192kHz/24-bit) files, allowing users to digital store vinyl recordings for playback on high-res audio devices.
One can even combine tracks from both sides of an album or split and save multiple tracks via included PC/Mac software. A special driver allows the recording of compatible DSD streams.
In addition the HX500 features "quality" analog components-- including a Sony-developed straight tone arm, integrated low-resonance integrated head shell complete with moving magnet cartridge, two-speed belt drive system, built-in phono equaliser and an acoustically inert cabinet. The result, Sony claims, ensures optimum tracking even on warped records.
The PS-HX500 turntable hits the market from Q2 2016.
Go Sony Redefines Turntable Category by Introducing Hi-Res Audio Capability