October 11, 2004
Transferring the Tunes
I've Got The Recordings, But How Do I Get Them On CD?
This really depends on your preferences and the computer you're working with. I use both a Mac and a PC and have the benefits and headaches of cross platform issues. Because of the technalities involved, I will not go into too much detail. However, the gadgetry and software I use is provided below.
The Hardware
Griffin iMic.....Retail $40
The Griffin iMic is what I use to get transfer the music from the MD to the computer. It's Mac and PC compatible and ultra easy to use: just plug the iMic to the USB port and attach the appropriate cable. The iMic comes with a CD-R, a 7" stereo mini-jack to RCA adapter cable, and easy to follow directions. While the plug provided works well for traditional stereos, it is not compatible with the MZ-N707, and you'll probably need to get another cable. As a side note, if you have old recordings on tape that you want to transfer onto CD/MP3, this gadget can get that job done for you!
Miniplug to 1/8" Miniplug Cord.....Retail:
$5
If you're going to use the iMic, then this is the cord you'll need for the MZ-N707. You can get it from Radio Shack or similar audio stores. Just attach one end of the cord to the headphone line on your MD and the other end of the cord to the sound in line on the iMac. If you want to be creative and do a bit more technical manipulation, you can use this cord to get recordings from local radio stations onto your MD. Very nice for those in-studio performances.
The Software
Once you've got the hardware to get the music transferred from the MD to the Mac/PC, you'll need a software program to actually access the sound. There's a lot of technical information involved, much of which I don't understand myself. But here's how I think the music transferring process works. The computer gathers the data stored on your MD via hardware (iMic) and "re-records" that data via software, translating the new information into an audio format that you specify (AIFF, WAV, MP3, etc.)
There are a variety of software programs available ranging from free (or shareware) to really, really, pricey. What you use is really a matter of preference. Here's a list of the software i use or the software programs that have been recommended to me.
Macintosh
Garage Band
Macromedia SoundEdit 16
Cubase
PC:
Sony SoundForge
CoolEdit (now know as Adobe Audition)
Audacity