How do I convert my hardcopy audio/video to digital format?
We accept all major digital audio and video formats and you can view a list of the formats we work with here. For hardcopy media you'll need to first convert the file to a digital format. We have put this article together for you based on what other customers have successfully used to convert their audio and video files. You can find directions for converting CDs and DVDs to digital format here for Windows and here for Mac.
For older hardcopy mediums, like cassette tapes, you'll need to digitize your data first. There are two methods you can follow:
- Purchase a USB cassette converter
- There are tons of affordable options that you can pick from if you do an internet search. Once your converter has arrived, all you'll need to do is to plug the converter into your computer, install the software provided with the converter, and then digitize the cassette.
- Make use of an old tape deck
- For this method to work, you'll need an old tape player or tape deck and a computer with an audio input port (like a mic port).
- Most commonly, you'll need to make use of an aux cable (male-to-male 3.5mm cable) and you'll also need to make use of a free program called Audacity. This process can be complicated but should yield higher fidelity files.
- This tutorial provides the steps you'll need to follow to connect your equipment, set up Audacity, and record, edit, and export your files.
