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How to Convert Vinyl to MP3 With Software

MP3 files are a digital music standard that provide the capability to compress significantly the space required to store music on a computer hard drive. Using conversion software, the analog signals contained in vinyl records can be converted easily into digital MP3 files, enabling them to be enjoyed through computers as well as hand-held digital players such as an iPod. Among the software available for this conversion process is Audacity, which is easy to use, fully featured and free. Other conversion applications are available online and can be purchased as shareware or full commercial programs.

Things You'll Need

  • USB turntable
  • USB cable
  • Audacity or other analog-to-MP3 conversion software
  • Vinyl record(s)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set up the USB turntable. Doing this includes plugging it into your computer using the included USB cable. The computer should automatically recognize and enable the new hardware or prompt you to install the drivers.

    • 2

      Open the Audacity program.

    • 3

      Click on the "File" menu and select "Save Project As..." This allows you to choose a folder in which to keep the music files.

    • 4

      Place a cleaned vinyl record on the USB turntable.

    • 5

      Record the vinyl record. Begin the recording process by clicking the "Record" button on the Audacity application and then starting the turntable. Recording takes place in real time.

    • 6

      Click the software's "Pause" button if you want to flip over the record. Click "Pause" again to resume recording.

    • 7

      Save the completed file. Do this by clicking "Save Project" under the Audacity "File" menu.

    • 8

      Convert the music file into MP3 format. To do this, select "Export Project as MP3" under the Audacity "File" menu. This creates the MP3 file (or files) and exports it or (them) into the folder you specify on your computer.

    • 9

      Save the files again once the export is complete.

    • 10

      Play saved files. Do this by simply clicking on them. They will be opened by your specified music software, whether it is iTunes, Windows Media Player, Quicktime or any other MP3-enabled application.

Digital Music

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