Converting an LP to MP3 Files

The original title of this entry was, "Converting an LP (Long Play Vinyl Records) to MP3 (MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3) Files" but it was a little long.

At the end of dance practice last week, someone asked the Mac computer users in the group if they knew of a way to transfer LPs to CDs.

Thought I’d share on my blog what I do with my old 33-1/3 & 45 rpm records. I’ve also transferred reel-to-reel and cassette tapes to MP3s the same way.

One of the gals mentioned she has a Crosley LP to CD player. She said she is not happy with the quality of the recordings. We have a Crosley, too. We also have an old-fashion turntable. The Crosley LP to CD player will let you play your LP and assign tracks where the gaps in the songs appear. I haven't tried it myself but my husband has done it.

Instead of using the built-in CD burner on the Crosley, I attach a Sony Digital Voice Recorder ICD-UX70, using RCA connectors to mini headphone jack, in the “audio out” plugs in the back. Actually you could do this with any turntable connected to any receiver with an “audio out.”

It doesn't matter if you're Mac or PC user, the Sony IC voice recorder creates a MP3 file. It connects to your computer via USB. You do not need additional software.

No matter which approach you use, mentioned above, one must be nearby to either assign tracks on the Crosley or turn the Sony IC voice recorder on/off. Note, there are converters out there that will record an entire LP and assign individual tracks without having to stop after each track and start again.

I import the mp3 files into iTunes. If you’re a Mac user, you might want to use Garageband (free on most Macs) for sound editing. You can clean up the beginning and end of the songs. Chances are there will be a slight pop when you turn the recorder on and off.

One of my friends thought it was crazy to transfer LPs over to CD. It might be, if you didn’t take good care of your LPs and they snap, crackle, and pop. However, if you’ve taken good care of your LPs and have the time, transfer them to CD yourself.