Convert reel to reel audio to CD

reel to reel audio image with standard dimensions

Reel-to-reel is exactly what it sounds like. Used mostly for audio, magnetic tape wound on one reel is pulled through a machine and wound onto another reel. Instead of the magnetic tape self-contained inside of a cassette tape, reel tape is exposed and must be pulled through a machine before rewinding on an empty reel on the other end.

Our audio engineers are proud to have the first-hand experience to convert reel-to-reel audio tapes and love working with it! Reel-to-reel tape was never very common in households because of the size of the machine needed to read the tape.

The most common audio format is the cassette tape and you can learn more about that format here.

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Reel-to-reel audio in action

In use since the early 1940’s, reel-to-reel audio tapes were the preferred recording method of professional artists through the 1980’s, even after cassettes became popular consumer products. Reel-to-reel recording is still used today as an alternative approach for recording artists. Like shooting film for photographers today, recording on reel-to-reel tape has revived a cult following. It’s said to have a more natural and warm sound that is hard to replicate in digital recordings.

Reel-to-reel tape measures 1/4″ wide, or about twice as wide as the cassette tape, and varies in length. Because of the greater width of reel-to-reel tape, it is thought to be much higher in quality than any other recording format of its time.

These tapes often sound beautiful but they have been known to deteriorate over time. Digitizing them as soon as possible is often the best way to preserve their beautiful sound quality.

We’re Local. And the most convenient.
Three easy ways to work with us:

We have over 30 locations in MA, NH, RI, ME, CT, NJ & NY. Our clients almost never have to drive more than 30 minutes to see us.

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If shipping is easiest, we'll send you a box with prepaid shipping labels to save you a trip to the post office. *NOTE: ship kits do not include the cost of digitizing or post-project return shipping*

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If you prefer to do the shipping, let us know to reserve space in our schedule for your tapes and we'll be expecting them!

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If none of these options work for you, we also offer in-home consultations throughout the Northeast.

Standard reel-to-reel audio options

We’ll digitally capture your labeling when we convert your reel-to-reel audio to CD or USB

Small – 3″

$35

reel

USB drive or CDs
High quality transfer to computer
Digital mp3 files
Experienced and trained local technicians

Medium – 3″-5″

$45

reel

Custom audio editing options
Label transcription
Experienced and trained local technicians
Private website included

Large – 5″+

$55

reel

Download to media players
Private website included
Experienced technicians
Label transcription

Extra Large – 10″+

$85

reel

Mp3 files & CDs available
Private website included
Custom pricing on oversized reels
Label transcription

Other Audio Formats & Details

A $30 service fee applies to all orders. This service fee provides for safe handling procedures including: intake, item coding, physical & digital storage, quality checks by senior technicians and packaging.

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