How to Rip a Tape to WAV

Ripping an audio tape to a WAV file converts music to a digital format for storing on a PC or burning to a CD.

Ripping (copying) an audio tape to a computer requires audio software for converting the analog signal on the tape into a signal that can be saved as a digital file, such as MP3 or WAV. The tape deck connects to the computer sound card with standard audio cables. Once captured on the PC, the recording can be saved as an uncompressed WAV file, which results in better sound quality with greater fidelity.

Things You'll Need

• Tape deck
• Audio cables
• Recording software
• Audio tapes

Instructions

1. Connect the audio cables to the Playback or audio "Out" jacks on the back of the tape deck and insert the plugs on the other end into the computer sound card jacks, using the white plug for left audio and the red plug for the right.

2. Start the recording software on the computer by double-clicking the name of the program.

3. Insert an audio tape, such as a cassette, for example, into the tape deck and press "Play."

4. Click the "Record" button on the computer software to begin copying the analog signal from the tape. Click the "Stop" button on the software when finished recording.

5. Click the "File" tab on the recording software and select "Save As."

6. Select "Save as WAV" then click the "Save" button to store the converted audio file on the computer's hard drive.

Tips & Warnings

• WAV files can be burned to a CD for music on the go.

• Turn off the computer and unplug the tape deck from the electricity while connecting audio cables.

References

• Online Tech Tips: How to Record Cassette Tapes to PC/Computer