Convert Vinyl & Tapes to MP3
Wire your turntable or deck, capture clean audio, remove clicks and hum, split tracks, add tags, and export MP3 with Audacity on Windows.
At a glance
- Connect turntable via phono preamp to line‑in or USB.
- Select the input device in Audacity and set levels (~−6 dB peaks).
- Record a whole side, then trim, label, and clean noise/clicks.
- Export MP3 (320 kbps CBR or high‑quality VBR).
1) Wire the hardware
Turntable → phono preamp → line‑in or USB interface. USB turntables can connect directly. Ground the turntable to reduce hum.
2) Select input & set levels
Choose MME or DirectSound. Pick the line‑in/USB device. Monitor and adjust gain so peaks sit around −6 dB.
3) Record & clean
Record a whole side. Use Noise Reduction (learn profile from a silent groove) and Click Removal to tame pops and hiss.
4) Split & tag
Add labels at track starts. Use Export Multiple and fill artist/album metadata to tag files properly.
5) Export MP3
Go to File → Export → MP3. Choose 320 kbps CBR or high‑quality VBR for best results.
Tips
Use 44.1 kHz project rate. Normalize around −1 dB. Avoid clipping; re‑record if needed rather than over‑processing.
Recommended settings
- Project rate: 44100 Hz
- Recording level peaks: about −6 dB
- Normalize to −1 dB before export
- MP3: 320 kbps CBR or high‑quality VBR
Common issues
- Hum: check ground wire; try a notch filter at 50/60 Hz.
- Left/right imbalance: verify cables and cartridge alignment.
- Clipping: lower gain and re‑record; avoid limiters for archival.
Quick answers
Do I need a phono preamp?
Yes, unless your turntable or interface has a built‑in phono stage. Standard line‑in expects line level, not phono.
What bitrate should I use for MP3?
Use 320 kbps CBR or a high‑quality VBR preset for excellent results.
How do I remove hum?
Ground the turntable to the preamp. In Audacity, apply a notch filter around 50/60 Hz or use a hum removal effect.
Ready to digitize your collection?
Download the free 64‑bit Windows installer and start recording today.