2
« on: May 18, 2013, 12:01:48 PM »
Hello and just registered to try to get some info before I get myself in over my head. I'm one of 4 siblings in their early 60's. My sis discovered 17 reels of 7", 1/4" audio tapes of many family members made by my long deceased Aunt Lucy back during the 50's. These were made each Christmas and contain audio/voices (no music) of all family members babbling whatever came to mind at the time. Needles to say, I was 7 or younger at the time and the only thing I remember about the machine is that is had a big green pilot light letting you know when it was recording. Sis also tells me it's my job to get these converted to digital. I'm a very technical guy with things electrical and mechanical, PC's so I understand how to make connections and that I'll have to buy some type of analog to digital box or just a PC sound card with the right inputs and outputs. I'm going to guess that all the tapes are mono (although I do not know this. Were there stereo tape decks in the mid to late 50's?) I see outside services charge from $30 up per reel, some based on time etc. This is a project I would enjoy doing myself so I figure I'll pick up a used machine on Ebay and get it done. I was hoping for some suggestions on a "good quality" machine to look for and I am unsure about "newer" (60's/70's/80's/90's) machines being able to play old mono tapes. Is there an issue with this? Once converted, I will simply put the machine back on Ebay as I will have no use for it. I'd also like some recommendations on a good sound card or exterior A/D converter for this purpose. Seems some articles recommend 24 bit, 96khtz sampling rates. I'm not too good in this area of expertise so again, would like some recommendations. Sis says she briefly unwound about 3' of tape off of a few reels and that it looks clean, does not stick to itself so hopefully, they are in decent shape. I've asked her to provide some pics of the reels and their boxes so I have a better idea of what we have. Maybe they will indicate at what speed they were recorded at so I can ensure that whatever machine I buy will play them correctly.
Show Posts