hhmm, i think its possible but not cheap.
Here's how to transfer songs from those records into a digital format for use on your computer or even to create CDs out of them. Note that since you own the record or cassette this is legal to do, however it is not legal to share the resulting digital files with others.
Before we discuss the process, let’s first talk about the equipment and software required. You will need:
* A turntable (for LPs and 45s) and/or a tape deck for cassettes
* A stereo with amplifier (into which your turntable and/or tape deck connect
* A cable that connects your stereo's "Audio Out" connector to your computer's “Line in” connector on your sound card.
* A computer with the following specs;
o Pentium II 266 computer or better
o 128 megs of RAM or more
o 200 MB free space on your hard drive
o a soundcard with a “Line in” port
o WAV file recording software
o WAV to MP3 conversion software
o MP3 burning software, if you want to make audio CDs
Let’s talk a little about this list. First you must have the means to actually play the original music.
Vinyl needs a turntable or audio tape needs a tape deck. These older pieces of hardware can still be found in either your local pawn shop, second-hand store or a decent boutique stereo shop or vintage record store. You can get them new here or used at eBay! Or check your Dad's basement!
Each component shouldn’t cost more than about £100 or so but remember that cheaper versions can mean cheaper quality which means a poor source from which to record.
Second, you must hook these up through a stereo with an amplifier. The reason for this is that most (though not all) turntables require amplification.
If you hook a turntable directly to a computer chances are the audio will be too faint to properly record. You might also experience the dreaded “feedback” if you connect this way.
Next you’ll need a cable that converts the two “Audio Out” RCA jacks from the stereo to the single 1/8 inch “Line In” jack on your computer's sound card (the one with microphone symbol next to it or an "in"arrow).
This sort of cable can easily be obtained at Radio Shack or a stereo equipment store or get one at Amazon .
Next your computer needs the specifications listed as audio recording and especially converting (or ripping) and burning takes a lot of processing power and memory.
You will be creating WAV files which are quite large averaging 10 Mb of space per minute of music, so the more you plan to record the more space you’ll need. The average LP album is around 45 minutes which would require 450 MB of hard drive space.
Lastly there’s the software.
WAV recording software is pretty easy to find. A couple I’d recommend are:
LP Recorder (Trialware)
http://www.cfbsoftware.com/lprecorder/lprecorder.htm
MusicMatch Deluxe -
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg...555441-1588154
Each program has a very straight forward interface that allows you to get up and running quickly. In each, just set the recording level and quality. Choose higher quality unless you are really tight for hard drive space.
Then hit record, start your album or cassette playing and press stop when the desired track (or tracks) are finished.
