How to digitize cassettes/ vinyl records
Learn how to convert audio cassettes and vinyl LPs into digital files using GarageBand or Audacity.
Maker Studio
9 steps
2 minutes
Digitizing
Make sure the correct cable is connected to the 2nd Thunderbolt port (on the back of the computer). The **blue cable is for LPs** and the **green cable is for cassettes**.
1
*Insert your tape on the left cassette player and rewind it to the beginning.* *Load your vinyl record.*
DO NOT USE DECK 2 on the right side!
2
Open "**GarageBand**"
3
Start your tape or LP and Click "**Record**" on GarageBand
You can listen to your tape as it's recording by using the headphones next to the computer.
4
Click "**Stop**" to end your recording
Exporting your file
5
Click "**Share**"
6
Click "**Export Song to Disk**…"
7
Rename and choose file format, "MP3" is the most common file format.
**AAC** files are a better quality but are larger files. Only use **AIFF** if you plan on further editing your files later.
8
Click "**Export**"
Make sure all your files are saved on your storage device!
9
**Eject** your storage device and **Restart** the computer to end your session.
Don't forget your cassette! Press "Eject" on the tape deck to remove your cassette.
How to digitize cassettes/ vinyl records
Learn how to convert audio cassettes and vinyl LPs into digital files using GarageBand or Audacity.
Maker Studio
9 steps
2 minutes
Digitizing
Make sure the correct cable is connected to the 2nd Thunderbolt port (on the back of the computer). The **blue cable is for LPs** and the **green cable is for cassettes**.
1
*Insert your tape on the left cassette player and rewind it to the beginning.* *Load your vinyl record.*
DO NOT USE DECK 2 on the right side!
2
Open "**GarageBand**"
3
Start your tape or LP and Click "**Record**" on GarageBand
You can listen to your tape as it's recording by using the headphones next to the computer.
4
Click "**Stop**" to end your recording
Exporting your file
5
Click "**Share**"
6
Click "**Export Song to Disk**…"
7
Rename and choose file format, "MP3" is the most common file format.
**AAC** files are a better quality but are larger files. Only use **AIFF** if you plan on further editing your files later.
8
Click "**Export**"
Make sure all your files are saved on your storage device!
9
**Eject** your storage device and **Restart** the computer to end your session.
Don't forget your cassette! Press "Eject" on the tape deck to remove your cassette.
