How to Convert Analog LPs to Digital Files

Nothing compares to the warm, rich full sound of LPs. If only they would last forever. Unfortunately, they do not. Time will take its toll in the form of warps, scratches and general degradation. Preserve your collection by easily converting your LPs to digital files. It’s simple to do and your grandkids will thank you.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Sound card with line-in jacks
• Audio receiver or amplifier
• 2 sets audio cables
• Media application software

Instructions

1. Prepare your LP. Make sure it’s clean. If it’s brand new, play it once to remove factory impurities.

2. Prepare your turntable. Make sure the needle is clean and properly balanced.

3. Connect audio cables from the output jacks of your turntable to the input jacks of your receiver or amplifier.

4. Connect audio cables from your receiver or amplifier’s line out jacks to your computer sound card’s line-in jacks.

5. Launch your media application on your PC. Windows operating systems come with an application called Sound Recorder that works fine. If you want something fancier, you can download an application from the Internet.

6. Test your levels by playing the LP and checking the reading on your media application. Adjust them as necessary to avoid red-lining.

7. Press record on your media application and start playing your LP. Once the LP is done playing, press Stop on your media application and save your new digital file with an appropriate name.

Tips & Warnings

• Even CDs and hard drives will wear out eventually, but you can store your digitized music online indefinitely.

• Always obey all copyright regulations when dealing with digital music files.