I have several hundred LPs I want to convert to CD using a Technics Quartz turntable, running through a Denon amp. I want to convert to .wav files then burn to CD as my basic storage. The computer is a year-old Toshiba Satellite with plenty of memory and RAM, running on the XP Home version.

This is pretty much an archival project so I don't want to do much tweaking of the source (volume, mix, etc) except for huge scratches or pops. I'll want the final CD to sound as much like the LP as possible. No audiophile stunts, no re-sequencing, no new fades, etc.

What I would like to know is your recommendations for the following:

1) As the Toshiba only has a mono mic line-in, what device should I purchase to connect the amplifier output to the laptop?

2) Should I use the USB port for the project?

3) Which software program will do what I need without lots of unnecessary bells and whistles? Bells and whistles are acceptable if that's the only way a program you really recommend is available;

4) The program MUST have a function that allows me to manually insert track separation;

5) I'd appreciate your personal preferences of which CD media you've found to be the most reliable (or least reliable!).

6) Anything else you think I should know.

Thanks in advance.

Hi yungmack, welcome to HA.

I've done several LP to CD recordings myself. I recommend you do a search for "vinyl" on HA to see some other threads with lots of recommendations and discussions. Here are my $ 0.02 for your immediate questions:

1) I would either use the audio line in if the Toshiba has it or an external sound card. Your preamp should not be connected to the microphone jack; line level inputs and microphone inputs are different and can cause problems.

I recommend a PC Card soundcard or a USB sound card for the best analog to digital performance if you are unable/unhappy with the Toshiba's line in. You can search HA for laptop sound card recommendations.

2) See above for sound card comments.

3) A great free audio editing program is audacity Audacity. Not too complex, still powerful. You could also look at Adobe Audition and Sound Forge which are not free and have more features.

4) Not a problem for any of the programs above.

5) Personally haven't had problems with CDR reliability, although others have. There are a few threads on CDR recommendations, try search.

6) Really take the time to clean the LPs before recording, it will make a big difference. Search HA for several threads on recording LPs with excellent comments / recommendations. Don't get too carried away editing pops/ticks unless you really have the time - editing can be extremely time consuming.

Good luck, let us know how it goes.

http://www.hydrogenaudio.org/forums/index....topic=33442&hl=

To Digital Man: Thanks for the info and leads. I'll let you know how it goes.