Obviously the words "guessing" and "implies" means it's conjecture, but it's a possibility, a likely one.
"Implies" is a logical conclusion, not a conjecture...
Find a master tape dub of the recordings in question and you'll find out.
Why would he or anyone bother? If the cartridge makes previously unlistenable records listenable that alone should be great, but it also extracts more information. Most would be very happy and just enjoy listening.