Converting audio tape stuff into mp3's - how?

[greendaze5]

Question for any tekkies here - I've got lots of Fold M-SN recordings, interviews,etc. still on audio cassette.

What's the easiest way to convert them into e-files (mp3's I mean)? What software and hardware do I need?

Thanks for any advice!

[Zombie]

I suppose it depends on how much time/money you are willing to spend on it.

They make tape decks that are specifically designed to do this, and those are pretty much plug & play.

You can also do it with a male-t0-male stereo audio cable (probably 3.5mm, but check your equipment to make sure), your soundcard, a tape player that has a headphone jack, and Audacity.

The second option is the least expensive, but the first option is likely going to give you the best quality.

Hope that helps!

[Macfanforever]

I use Cool Edit Pro or Soundforge for the pro way,but also I use Totalrecorder to run tapes to mp3's.These are not freebies..They're other editors out there that are freeware.also for about $100 dollars you can pickup a usb Cassette to computer setup made by Ion the same company that made the usb turntable.I look at one at B.J's for under $100 dollars.I have no clue on the quility of these devices can produce,but they are probably have reviews online on them.I use the same patch cord as Zombie explained,also I have the option to go through an pro mixer board to make it sound clean.

[Zombie]

^^^^

I haven't used an Ion tape deck, but I did have an Ion turntable and the sound quality was excellent - I was really surprised, didn't expect it to be that good.

[greendaze5]

Thanks for the replies! Will look into it.