Ion Audio USB decks rip vinyl to iTunes

Ion Audio tackled the increasing problem of preserving classic records today by launching two vinyl decks that streamline the process. The iTTUSB05 and pictured iTTUSB10 contain a USB port found on some newer turntables that let supporting software capture their audio for editing or direct playback. Special to the new models is the software, Ion says. Each includes EZ Vinyl Converter software that simultaneously converts records to digital files but also sends them directly to iTunes, simplifying the process for those without editing experience or with large vinyl collections.

Both decks support Macs and PCs, Ion says. The entry-level iTTUSB05 handles most essential tasks with support for 33 1/3 and 45 RPM records as well as RCA output for playing through conventional stereos. Moving up to the iTTUSB10 adds recording for 78 RPM records in addition to an improved anti-shake system, a better tone arm, and a phono output option. Either deck is available today at $150 for the USB05 and $250 for the USB10.