Cheap Device For Analog Cassette Options

[Torpie]

(Sorry- subject line should read: Suggestions for a cheap device to record analog cassette to Mac to burn to CD... anyways, please read on)


Hello- I'm new to these forums and looked around a bit for some suggestions. Saw a few on the higher end of (i.e. beyond) my realm of understanding, so I figured I’d ask directly.

I've got some old mix tapes that I want to be able to load onto my powerbook (g4, high-specs, etc) and burn to CD. I'd like to do *minor* editing, like sound adjustments in certain parts (e.g. increase volume, fade in/out) and put in track breaks for the CD. Basically I'm looking for the following two compatible items:

HARDWARE- something simple and reliable (and preferably cheap) to run the analog signal from my tape deck into my Mac via either USB or firewire. I once tried to do this about five years back w/ my iMac, a Midiman Quattro and my turntables/mixer. Due to possibly defective hardware, incompatible software (I attempted to use Peak 2.0) and my lemony iMac DV (it had some problems and probably wasn't the best for recording), it didn't work and I was out about $300 (for the Quattro & PEAK 2.0) after I finally gave up trying to get it to work.

SOFTWARE- something simple... two track (stereo) recording... nothing fancy... maybe a little volume adjustment for mastering to CD, a fade in/out would be nice, but not imperative. I read in another post a recommendation for Felt Tip Software's Sound Studio program ($50!)… looked basic enough, perhaps this or another program comes recommended? Also, something to dump breaks into the recording so the 45 minute mixes can be tracked through once on CD (this may be a CD recording/burning software operation, but please correct me if I’m wrong).

Help, recommendations and cost-friendly suggestions come highly appreciated.

-Chris Torpie

This post has been edited by Torpie: Tue 10 May 2005, 21:02

[Torpie]

OK- I've found a few more bits on the forums... specifically another software recommendation (Audacity). But I want to be confident about what interface I use. Can I go w/ something as cheap as the Griffon iMic (I worry about sound/electrical interference on the line). Simple is good... but fidelity is important as well. Anyone have a recommendation?

[lepetitmartien]

If fidelity is an issue avoid the iMic and try the entry level in audio interface, like M-Audio audiophile 2496 or the Echo MIAMIDI. They may be temperamental to instal but the sound will be better than the iMic+the $$$ driver for a little bit more of cash.

[Torpie]

I'll check them out.... thanks!