Transfer audio from a tape deck
Q
What hardware do I require to transfer audio from reel-toreel analogue tapes on my tape deck, with its phono socket outputs, to my MacBook Air?
by TIM JONES
A
Some older Macs had analogue microphone inputs that allowed you to connect them with just a cable, and had hardware to convert their audio signal. More recent models require the conversion of signals from analogue to digital before they enter your Mac. It’s also better if you have the option of using line rather than microphone input, as that’s more likely to retain the original quality of your
audio tapes. As with most hardware, analogue to digital audio converters range widely in price, and you tend to get what you pay for. Cheap models at around £20-30 will do the job, but don’t offer the same options or quality as one from an established manufacturer such as PreSonus or Arturia at around £80-100.