Archiving DATs to computer or server HD


I have a large collection of music "favorites" on DAT. I would like to archive this music on to a computer or music server. As far as computer is concerned, no one seems to know what I need to buy and how to proceed. I know that I will need some downloaded music player ( Audacity ) and some kind of interface -- but what ? I am willing to buy a new computer for this purpose. For music server, everything that I see that has digital inputs ( RCA or Toslink ) costs over $5000. I've seen ads for the Cocktail Audio X40 that would seem to fit-the-bill, but that company has no "track record" and I can find no reviews. Need advice ---- JTV
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Showing 4 responses by bigridge

The sampling rate of the digital output of my DAT deck is 44K or 48K depending on the source that I was recording. Thanks Dtc for your insistence on civility. But, I have thick skin and it doesn't bother me. For me, interpreting a Treadmill Stress Test is as easy as sharpening a pencil -- probably not for Raymonda.
Regarding all of the above, I think that audio is entering a new age --- the computer audio age. I am over 70, and grew up in a world where the word "computer' didn't even exist. My computer knowledge is about that of an average 10 year old -- and that's me bragging ! For audio applications, there is just no place to go for specific advice. People who work in audio shops don't know the answers to these questions. Memphis Tennessee, where I live, a city of over a half million, has zero high-end audio stores. Computer shop employees look at you like you are crazy. Some people on the internet actually insult and ridicule you. What the high-end world needs now, is a new breed of computer audio consultants. People who you can hire, who will come to your house, access your system and your needs and tell you exactly what you need to buy. Then your consultant would return to you when the gear arrives, and help you set up and get started. I wish that some sharp computer wiz IT types out there would do this. I'll be their first customer, and I would pay them well. JTV
Thanks RW for telling me about Google. I thought that it was something that Popeye used for a sore throat. Thanks Dtc for a very comprehensive answer. My DAT deck has XLR and RCA digital outputs. I can also convert to toslink. I still need to know exactly how to get the digital info into a laptop. Do I need to buy a computer that has digital audio inputs ? -- I haven't been able to find one. Or, do I need an audio interface -- and, if so, exactly what ? I do know that I will have to install software, and that there are several choices. I appreciate your time and trouble in answering. Thanks again. JTV
Thanks Dtc -- I've made note of all the suggestions that I have received and I appreciate them all. I've found an interface that should work for digital transfers into Pure Vinyl on my MacBook pro. I could use an external hard drive for more storage if needed. But, I'm going to wait a few months to see if any of the audio mags write a review of the Cocktail Audio X40. This device would do everything that I need all in one package, and I could easily transport it back-and-forth to western NC where we spend part of the year. When I actually do something, I'll let you know how it works. JTV