How Do I convert cassette tape to .WAV files?

Question

I have a bunch of old cassette tapes of stuffI I taped off the radio & I'd like to convert them to .WAV files so I can put them on CD.

What is the best / easiest way to do this, without spending all my paycheck on equipment & software? (PS: I'm no computer geek, but wish I was.)

Answer 1

No worries, it won't dent your paycheck : )

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 process is the same: you play the tape, and your PC converts it (in real time) into a .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 .WAV straight to disc with, e.g. Toast, iTunes or Nero, to make a playable CD.

And you need the right software, of course.

There are many software options for Windows or Mac - at least 7-8 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'.

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. 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!


The basic process is explained at:

http://www.hitsquad.com/smm/news/1316/...


http://www.help2go.com/tutorials/mp3%10a...

A variety of free software for the job can be found at:

http://www.freesoftware4all.co.uk/mp3.ht...

Answer 2

Cassette To Wav Converter

Answer 3

PolderbitS sells a decent audio recorder for about $40.00. There is also Cool Edit Pro which is a bit more expensive.

Answer 4

Wave Lab (Lite)
http://forums.pcper.com/printthread.php?t=298117
Once it's installed it's very easy to handle.

Answer 5

hook your stereo speakers to the computer line in on your sound card and then use a recording program in your sound card package