The process of recording from vinyl to digital is still a valid one, even in today’s modern era. Digitalization of records has been around for about forty years now, and with new technology and equipment available for this type of task, there are many ways you can preserve your old records without any loss of sound quality-or do it yourself with different types of equipment!
One way to go about digitally converting your favorite vinyl records into the MP3 format would be to purchase a turntable that comes equipped with a USB output port. This will allow you to connect the device directly into your computer through an provided interface cable so as not to interfere with audio signal quality. The software program on your computer will then convert the analog signal into digital data, and the music will be saved to your hard drive in MP3 format.
Two models that come equipped with a USB port are the Audio Technica AT-LP120USB and the Numark TTX USB . If you already have an older model record player, then don’t worry! There is a wide range of devices that will convert the analog signal from your turntable into digital format. These units will range from simple “phono preamplifier” boxes, to more complex pieces of gear such as a Plinius 8200 series . The Audio-Technica ATR-series is also another model available at an affordable price which allows you to connect the RCA output of your turntable to the line input. The ATR-series units then amplify the signal, and convert it into an digital format.
With any one of these conversion devices at hand, you’ll be able to digitize your favorite vinyl records with little hassle.
How to convert vinyl records into digital format
There are a few different ways and tools that one can use to convert vinyl records into digital format. The requirements of the process will vary depending on what equipment you want to use, but there are always steps that have to be taken in order to ensure an easy and successful conversion.
1. Gather your equipment: For the most basic set up, you will need a turntable, splitter/headphone amp (optional), and converting software, like Audacity or iTunes.
2. Coordinate your software. You should install the necessary sound-recordings software as well as any specific converters that you will need for the type of music or device you are using to convert the records. A lot of times people will have specific software they like to use, and may already have them installed. If not, there are plenty of free online converters that you can download and install on your computer (I will elaborate more about this later).
3. Adjust your equipment: You need to make sure all of the buttons/gears are properly aligned or connected in order to get the best recording out of your equipment. The recording itself is dependent on the quality of sound coming from your vinyl so make sure that you properly align everything before moving forward to step 4.
4. Record to computer: When you are satisfied with your equipment at this point, (make sure all dials and knobs are in place), you are ready to record. To start the recording, simply hit play on your equipment (if using a vinyl or CD player) and then hit record on your software.
When hitting the record button, be sure that the sound is not too loud to begin with so that you don’t distort the recording. Also, if there is any scratching or noise in the background when you hit play, make sure to reduce the master volume of your equipment.
5. Save and Export: You should immediately save your recording file after completing it (a general rule for all sorts of recordings) and then export it into a different folder than the one that it is saved in since most likely you will want to edit the file at some point. After doing this, you are ready to begin editing.
6. Now that you have your recording on a different file and folder, you can now open it up in whichever software program you choose to use for sound-editing purposes. There is plenty of free online software programs out there that you can use for this such as Adobe Audition or headphones or audio interface to connect your turntable/equipment into. It is recommended that you save a copy of your final recording in FLAC format and then export it over to iTunes so that you can burn the recording tracks onto a CD.
Advantages of converting your favorite vinyl records into the MP3 format
One of the main advantages of converting your favorite vinyl records into the MP3 format is that there are new technology and equipment for this type of task. With today’s modern era, you can convert old records without any effects on sound quality.
The procedure to convert records is not as difficult as you would think and it is something anyone can do with the right equipment and technique. Some record players allow for conversion to digital without a computer but it will typically take more time than when using software because you’ll need to manually convert the vinyl into a digital format.
Digital records will never wear out, get lost or stolen. So if you have a great collection of vinyl that is starting to degrade from use, it’s time to convert those memories into something more dependable before they completely deteriorate.
Disadvantages of converting your favorite vinyl records into the MP3 format
There are many disadvantages of converting your favorite vinyl records into the MP3 format. Some of these disadvantages include the loss of sound quality, distortion, and a decrease in the richness of the music. The only way you will be able to counteract these is by investing in expensive equipment or software that can convert vinyl into digital formats without any loss in sound quality.
It is also best to convert vinyl into digital format only if you still have the original equipment that came with the record.
If you cannot find this or it is already broken, then it is best just to get a new one instead of converting it into something different.
Best Software for
There are many different software programs that you can choose from when recording your favorite vinyl records but the two best ones in terms of price, quality and ease of use include Audacity and TapeOp. The most affordable option is Audacity which is a free program with decent results. Tapeop comes with more options and a slightly higher price at $60 but it is probably one of the easiest programs to use if you are new to this.
Conclusion
So if you have a great collection of vinyl that is starting to degrade from use, it’s time to convert those memories into something more dependable before they completely deteriorate. Whether an old favorite or the newest album release, converting your records will preserve them for future generations. It may seem like too much work but with new technology and equipment available today, anyone can convert their favorite vinyls without any loss in sound quality! If you want help doing this by yourself or need advice on what software would be best-or just want some tips about how to record from vinyl, write a comment bellow.
