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How to Record a Vinyl LP to a CD

Most consider compact discs a better and more convenient way to listen to music than vinyl records. Many common devices can read and play CDs, including car stereos and computers. But Vinyl LPs are making a come back (see ref. 1) so it makes sense to want CD backups of vinyl-only releases. Save money by recording music and other audio from your LPs to CDs rather than purchasing brand-new CDs of the same material.

Things You'll Need

  • Blank CD-R or CD-RW discs
  • Record player
  • Stereo amplifier
  • RCA Y-cable
  • Computer
  • Audio recording program
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Instructions

  1. With a Stereo Turntable

    • 1

      Plug the turntable into the stereo amplifier. Look for the input jack labeled "Phono."

    • 2

      Use the RCA Y-cable to connect the stereo to the computer. A Y-cable has two RCA input plugs on one end, and a 3.5 mm stereo mini plug on the other. Connect the RCA plugs to the stereo output and the mini plug to the computer's audio input jack.

    • 3

      Play the LP to confirm the audio recording program is able to detect the audio input. Record one side of the LP, then flip it over to record the other side.

    • 4

      Use the recording program to save the audio file. Save individual music tracks as separate files.

    • 5

      Insert a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc into your computer. Use the recording program to copy the files onto the disc. Format it as audio, not data.

    With a USB Turntable

    • 6

      Plug the turntable into your computer and start the audio recording program. Play the LP to confirm the program is able to detect the audio.

    • 7

      Start the LP at the beginning and record one side using the recording program. Flip the LP over and record the reverse side.

    • 8

      Use the recording program to save the audio file. For music, save individual tracks as separate files.

    • 9

      Insert a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc into your computer. Use the recording program to copy the files onto the disc. Format it as audio, not data (see ref 2).

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Recording Music

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