Since audio CDs crashed the hi-fi industry nearly 25 years, ardent audiophiles have bemoaned the demise of vinyl records. They claim old-fashioned CDs just sound better.

But even if that is true, there's little doubt that the wear and tear brought to bear by diamond styluses on soft vinyl soon introduces "scratchy" noises that bother even the most steadfast vinyl supporters.

But the ELP laser turntable reads record grooves with a beam of light rather than a needle: no record wear. ELP claims the process is completely analog - no digitization - which renders the sound quality intact and natural.

For more information: www.elpj.com