Connect the output of your cassette or record player to the input of the standalone CD recorder with a stereo RCA cable. If your record player needs an amplifier to produce sound, connect your amplifier to the standalone CD recorder. Almost all cassette players and record players have stereo RCA outputs that can be used to connect the devices to the input of the standalone CD recorder.
Put the standalone CD recorder in "Standby" or "Monitor" mode.
Play the source material and watch the LED or light monitor on the front input panel of the CD recorder to make sure the input volume is below 0dB at the loudest point of the recording. Most standalone CD recorders have dB meters, but some do not. If your particular recorder does not have a dB meter, make sure the light display stays out of the red area. This step may take several minutes, but it is important to find the right level.
Insert a blank CD-R into the standalone CD recorder.
Press the "Record" button on the CD recorder and then start the source material. Record until the song or program has finished playing or you want to move to a new track on the CD. To move to a new track, simply stop the CD recorder and repeat the process.
Finalize the CD once you are done recording if your CD recorder requires finalization to play on other machines. Some CD recorders don't require this. There is usually a "Finalize" button on the front panel if the machine requires it, but you should check your owner's manual if you are unsure.