How to Convert Cassette Tapes to CD Without a Computer

By Marshal M. Rosenthal

Updated February 10, 2017

Cassette tapes were once very popular, and many people still have memories stored on them that they would like to listen to again. Converting a cassette tape to a CD provides an easier way to listen to what was on the cassette tape, A cassette-to-CD record turntable that has both a cassette player and a CD burner will let you convert the cassette tape to a CD without the need of a computer or software programs. The process does not require any knowledge of how CDs work, and there are a number of companies that make cassette-to-CD record turntables.

Pick up the cassette in one hand. Insert a pencil, eraser first, into the left cassette hub. Turn the cassette hub clockwise until some resistance is felt. Insert the pencil, eraser first, into the right cassette hub. Turn the cassette hub using the pencil counter clockwise using the pencil until some resistance is felt.

Press the "Open" button on the cassette control panel to open the cassette tray. Place the cassette tape into the cassette tray with Side One facing out. Close the cassette tray by pushing the tray back against the body of the cassette-to-CD record turntable.

Press the "Rewind" button on the cassette control panel to rewind the cassette tape to the beginning. The cassette tape should stop automatically when the rewinding has been completed.

Press the "Eject" button on the CD control panel to eject the disc tray, Place a blank, recordable CD disc onto the disc tray. Press the "Eject" button again to close the disc tray.

Press the "Play" button on the cassette control panel. Press the "Record" button on the CD control panel. Press the "Pause" button on the CD control panel when the cassette finishes playing the first side.

Press the "Stop" button on the cassette control panel. Press the "Open" button on the cassette control panel to open the cassette tray. Take out the cassette tape and put it back into the cassette tray with Side Two facing out. Close the cassette tray by pushing the tray back against the body of the cassette-to-CD record turntable.

Press the "Rewind" button on the cassette control panel. Wait for the cassette tape to complete rewinding. Press the "Play" button on the cassette control panel. Press the "Pause" button on the CD control panel to continue recording the cassette to the recordable CD.

Press the "Stop" button on the CD control panel when the second side of the cassette tape has finished playing. Press the "Eject" button on the CD control panel to eject the CD disc tray. Remove the CD, which now has the contents of the cassette tape on it.

Items you will need

  • Cassette-to-CD record turntable

  • Pencil

  • Blank recordable CD disc

Tips

Fast-forward and rewind the cassette tape a few times to release the tension of the tape.

Warnings

Be aware that cassette rollers deteriorate over time and could break off during play.

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