Cracking open the Ion USB turntable

In an era before MP3s, CD-ROMs, and RIAA lawsuits, vinyl was the medium of choice for music lovers around the world. If you're old enough to remember those days, you're probably the proud owner of a few vinyl records that you wish you could convert to a modern digital format for your iPod or other digital device. Your wish has been granted with the iTT USB turntable from Ion. Using an USB connection and some open-source software this gadget converts and records your vinyl treasures into MP3s that you can use on modern music devices.

Here's how it looks intact in all its glory, ready to record. Follow along as we take it apart bit by bit.

(CNET sister site TechRepublic runs a regular series called "Cracking Open" in which its reviewers take a look inside a variety of electronics. News.com is publishing this excerpt.)