I once actually saw a record player that was sort of like this. I can't remember the details--I saw it only for a minute or two fifteen years or more ago--but it was like a little toy car or truck that would "drive" around the record. I'd doubt that the sound would be audiophile quality, and I'd guess that record wear would be high. But, I sort of wish I'd bought one of these. It'd be a conversation piece.
LIRPA1
Does anyone remember the LIRPA1 cartridge? The computer controlled cartridge moved around the record on a small "trailer" that was towed by a tiny, radio controlled car. The information from the grooves was transmitted via FM directly to one's phono stage. Turntable rumble was totally eliminated as was the turntable itself. One only needed a record mat. Whatever became of this great cartridge? More information on this and other LIRPA products may be found in the "Audio" magazine annual buyer's guide that was published every October.