Is it possible to record a tape to C.D.?

Question

As I have some rareities I want transferred,Thanks

Answer 1

Yes. If you want to outsource it, these guys will do it http://www.cassettes2cds.com/

You can also do it yourself but it's more tedious to set everything up.

Answer 2

I presume you already have a cassette deck. All you need now is the right cables (usually a 1/8th inch jack - you may need an adaptor. Readily available at most good electronics stores. The basic idea is given at the link below.)

And you need the right software, of course.

There are many software options for Windows or Mac - at least 6-7 acceptable programs out there. I have given you some links below for the free stuff; There are also modestly-priced alternatives at zdnet.com or download.com under 'mp3 utilities'.

The basic process is the same: you play the tape, and your PC converts it (in real time) into an AIFF or WAV file (a pretty big file). Then you drag this into e.g. iTunes, and convert it into an mp3 (if you're an iPod person) OR burn the AIFF/WAV straight to disc with, e.g. Toast or Nero, to make a playable CD. See the links below for more details.

TIPS FROM MY EXPERIENCE:

a. Your first few attempts may be disappointing. There may be audible hissing in the background; or the recording, even after being EQed, may still sound 'tinny'. Just play around with various threshold settings in the software - the more you experiment, the better the results get.

b. Some apps deliver an audible 'click' at the top of the AIFF or WAV file generated; any good sound editor can remove that at the mp3 stage (I use MP3 Trimmer, very precise.)

c. If there is significant warping to the tape, it's almost a lost cause to generate 'clear' mp3s. Save yourself the hassle and just buy the album on CD. The software filters can reduce the problem, but they can do only so much. However, I once rescued a tape that was 21 years old, without a hitch. If they've been well-stored, you should have no problems.

I'm not sure where you live. If you don't want the hassle of doing it yourself, do some Google work with key words: 'cassette conversion to digital', 'old cassettes to mp3', etc. This will turn up a lot of commercial services (if you are UK / US-based) which will do this for a small fee.

I think, however, for just a handful of tapes, it's not worth it - have a go at doing it yourself; the most you need to buy is the cable and the jack, and download the software.

Best of luck!

Answer 3

Connect the headphones jack on a tape player to the Line In on your PC. Then record the tape as MP3 or WMA or whatever. Then burn to CD. I have done this with records and it works well.

Answer 4

Yes, but imagine the quality.... It's better to get a digitally remastered edition. Tapes are no that great in terms of quality of sound.