How do I convert VHS to CD?


I'd like to convert the soundtrack of Mark Knopfler's Night In London to CD since several versions of his music are unique to that track and quite outstanding performances. But I'm clueless as to how to accomplish this. Any suggestions?
Or, better yet, does anyone know if that soundtrack is already available on CD?

Thanks.
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Showing 1 response by almarg

It's dependent on the software that you have on your computer, and you might need software that you don't presently have to do it well.

Basically, the left and right audio outputs of the vcr would be connected to the computer's audio line-in jack, most likely through an adapter providing a 1/8" stereo mini-plug (to plug into the computer) and dual rca female jacks (that accept the cable from the vcr).

You would then use an audio editing program or a sound recording program to capture the audio as a .wav file on the computer. You may have to initially do multiple short captures to get the recording level set properly. You would then use a cd burning program, such as Nero, to burn an audio cd from the .wav file.

If you have Windows XP, the Sound Recorder program that is built-in may be adequate to capture the audio, although it is kind of primitive. It is located under Start/All Programs/Accessories/Entertainment/Sound Recorder. I suspect Vista has something similar or perhaps better. I'm not familiar with Mac's, but I suspect they would have adequate software built-in.

There is a well-regarded free audio editing program called Audacity, which may also be helpful: http://audacity.sourceforge.net/
I am not familiar with it myself, as I use a professional program called Sound Forge. You may want to consider its consumer-grade counterpart, Sound Forge Audio Studio:
http://www.sonycreativesoftware.com/products/soundforgefamily.asp

Hope that helps,
-- Al