Reproducing apparatus and reproducing method

A reproducing apparatus, comprising:

• memory means for recording a plurality of files and number-of-reproduction-times limitation information thereof;
• operation means for selecting a desired file from the plurality of files stored in said memory means so as to reproduce the selected file;
• determining means for determining whether or not the number-of reproduction-times limitation information has been set to the file selected by said operating means;
• first comparing means for comparing whether the number-of-reproduction-times limitation information allows for reproduction of the selected file;
• counting means for counting the reproduced elapsed duration of the file selected by said operating means when the number-of-reproduction-times limitation information has been set to the selected file as the determined result of said determining means, and after reproduction has begun as the result of the first comparing means;
• second comparing means for comparing the reproduced elapsed duration counted by said counting means exceeds a predetermined value;
• and
• editing moans for editing the number-of reproduction-times limitation information stored in said memory means when the reproduced elapsed duration counted by said counting means exceeds the predetermined value as the determined result of said comparing means to reduce the number of times the selected file may subsequently be reproduced.