on 9/2/03 9:05 AM, JohnG <> at wrote:
> JohnG wrote:
>> I need to download tapes from a DAT PCM-M1 to a new 17" flat
>> screen iMac. The iMac does not have an analog audio in-port,
>> only firewire and USB ports. Can any group members help me
>> with:
>>
>> 1. How do I transfer sound from the DAT to the new iMac? What
>> ports do I use; what hardware do I need?
I am using an older iMac, directly inputting sound in real time from a Sony
TCD D10 DAT via the RCA output plugs on the DAT to the mini-plug stereo
input socket on the iMac. This neatly solves the conversion of 48 to 44k,
and the sound quality is indistinguishable from the original DAT tapes, to
my ears. This is a highly-satisfactory low-budget solution to what can be a
mega-bucks problem. I am careful to have the input levels set correctly,
and I use batteries to power the DAT which avoids any suggestion of hum.
I have been wondering, with the newer iMacs such as the one John Gamman asks
about, just how one would easily input analogue sound through the USB input
socket, there being no stereo mini-socket any more.
Is there some kind of inexpensive adapter that one can use to turn a
miniplug into a USB plug? Or have Apple made a big mistake in discontinuing
the stereo mini-socket on the iMac? Surely one does not need to buy an
expensive hardware unit when an adapter cable should do?
>> 2. What software do I need (what is easy to use and affordable in Apple OSX
>> format) for importing and editing?
In my iMac I am using Peak LE VST, highly recommended, it does everything I
need. I also have Waves Q10 noise reduction VST plug in, that works
brilliantly with Peak LE VST. Both of these programs are very reasonably
priced, especially in US dollar terms. I use plain Toast for burning CDs,
haven't tried Jam, but Toast does all you should need and probably comes
free with Peak. Actually, there is a new noise reduction program from Waves
- "Sound Soap", designed especially for OS X. I only have OS 9, and haven't
tried Sound Soap. Has anyone else tried it?
These are some lower-budget solutions, as John Gamman has requested.
Vicki Powys
Australia
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