How to Convert Analog Tapes to CD?

The cheapest way to do this is to connect the output of your tape deck to the analog inputs on your computer's sound card. However, unless you've got a great sound card, you will most likely be dissappointed with the results (I was).

I would suggest you look on ebay for a stand-alone CD-recorder. They all have analog inputs and an internal A/D converter. You should be able to pick one up for about $150. Just avoid the no-name brands. I have heard/used Pioneer, Harman Kardon and Marantz machines - each was fine. Be aware of the feature-set also. For example, I happen to require independant L/R recording level controls, and not all CD recorders have this feature. Unless you are dubbing CDs or making mixed CDs from other CDs, a single-drawer recorder will suffice and save you money. In my experience with a Pioneer CD recorder and a Marantz CD recorder, the CD-Rs are pretty faithful to the original source (just watch your levels!). Note that consumer CD recorders will only record on "Music" CD-Rs (and some on Music CD-RWs), but pro or "pro-sumer" decks, like my Marantz CDR-632, will record on almost any CD-R or CD-RW media. I have had the best results with CD-Rs by Taiyo-Yuden, Fuji and Phillips, which are all very inexpensive if you know where to get them. Different recorders may work better with different brands of media.

Also, note that the life expectancy of CD-R media is typically little more than 10 years. Either retain the analog originals, or (as I do) date your CD-Rs and burn a fresh copy every five years or so. For this purpose, your computer CD-R/RW drive is fine.

I am using iVinyl which is distributed by Audioparts. I'm using it with great success comverting my LP's to ipod and CD. It can also be used to comvert any high level like analog tapes to CD or itunes as well. Do a search for iVinyl, Audioparts sells it through Agon. I believe that he is the sole US distributor for this great product. I'm not associated with iVinyl or Audioparts, but I am a VERY satisfied customer. iVinyl is highly recommended.

Actually, I've been hard at work doing this very project for my 100 + LPs that I've owned for many years. It's really simple: 1) Get a good computer soundcard. I have the Creative Labs Soundblaster Music X-FI. That makes a big difference in terms of quality of music going IN to the computer as well as music coming out. 2) Connect your stereo amp's phono out lines to the soundcard on the computer. You will need a converter or cord that has the two RCA-type plugs on one end and a stereo miniplug on the other. If it's impractical to have your stereo amp next to the computer, just use the turntable and a separate phono preamp, so you can run the line from the preamp into the soundcard. 3) Open up the software that converts incoming analog signal to a WAV file. Most good soundcards come with this type of software. Otherwise, you'd need Nero or some other commercial brand of software that has this. 4) Record the music, save it as a WAV file, and voila, you're done! You may then wish to convert it to MP3 file to "save space" but can always save the original (and better quality) WAV file on a backup disc. Hope that helps!

I use TOTAL RECORDER..[google search] it can be downloaded from the site...cost app.$15. free upgrades as they are released. It bypasses the sound card so not only can you record lp's, cass., but streaming audio also. Sound is quite good. For cass. just plug your deck outs to your comp.
line in[ will need to buy a cable at rs..not expensive]
then start recorder and thats it. Music can be saved as a wav for burning or an mp3. Easy..hope this helps, Larry

Thanks guys for the great tips. I'll probably start with one of the PC approaches and see how the quality is. thanks again,
John.