Computer to Cassette Tape - How?

  • Thread starter Thread starter killyb
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killyb

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I'm attempting to record MP3 files from my
PC Clone (Pentium III/450) with a PC/100 motherboard (with onboard sound card).

I split the 1/8" mini line out with a "Y"
adapter to RCA phono plugs. From there I'm
connected directly into the line in sockets
on the back of my cassette recorder (an old
TEAC w/dolby).

When I record, all my levels seem fine. On
playback, audio is either muffled or overdriven to distortion.

I've tried converting to WAV, applying normalization, EQ -- everything short of
a ball-peen hammer. Also, checked the recorded tape on several different decks.
No luck.

Is my line out signal from the PC too low? Cables incorrect? Or is it just bad Karma?
The Teac plays other tapes OK.

Any gurus out there that can solve my dilema? I'd be forever grateful...

killyb
 
Are you monitoring the playback while you're recording or just using the V/U meters on the TEAC?
 
drstawl...

Yup, monitoring using AKAI headphones that
are pretty decent. Input sounds fine
while recording.

Thanks for the speedy reply!

killyb
 
Have you tried turning off the dolby and seeing how it sounds? My experience with dolby is it always makes playback sound muffled and takes away most of the high end...I never use it for playback.
 
ledhed...

I'm not using Dolby at all - in or out.

I'm beginning to think that the cassette deck
is the problem -- it's old (15+ yrs.)

Could it be the heads? I just cleaned them. I'm gonna try recording from another source (other than the PC) to test it.

Thanks for your help,

- killyb
 
I think the casseste deck may be the problem because I do the exact thing you tried (1/8 to Y to record in on deck) and it works great.
 
Lorddiagram...

Believe you may be right.
I'm trying a new deck today.

RIP - Teac (you served me well)

- killyb
 
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