Sharper Image Cassette To MP3 Converter: A Must-Have for Audiophiles

Are you looking for a reliable and easy-to-use cassette to MP3 converter? Look no further than the Sharper Image Cassette To MP3 Converter. This device allows you to convert your old cassette tapes into digital MP3 files, so you can enjoy your favorite music on your computer, phone, or any other MP3-compatible device. The estimated price of this product is $49.99, and it is now available for purchase.

FEATURES

• Easy to use
• Converts cassettes to MP3 files without a computer or additional software
• Makes high-quality 128 Kbps recordings
• Auto and Manual recording modes
• AUX line in port lets you convert audio from other sources (radio, CD player, etc.)
• Operates on 2 AA batteries or plugs into a USB port
• Includes 8GB USB flash drive (about 2,000 songs)

IDENTIFICATION OF PARTS

1. Cassette lid lock switch
2. AUX port (line out to headphones or an external speaker, OR line in from audio source)
3. OTG port (“On the go” — plug in your USB flash drive or a USB card with card reader)
4. Volume control
5. Tape viewing window
6. Cassette operation buttons:
   • PLAY
   • STOP
   • FAST FORWARD
   • REWIND
   • DIRECTION (Change direction of tape to switch from Side A to Side B)
   • AUTO REVERSE (Slide to engage Auto Reverse Mode)
7. DC port (5V DC power)
8. Converter operation buttons

LED INDICATOR LIGHTS

POWER SUPPLY
For your convenience there are two power options: 

1. Use the included USB cable.
2. Insert 2 AA batteries. Note: You must open the lid of the cassette player to access the battery compartment. Please follow the polarity illustrations (“+” or “-”) when inserting batteries.

CONVERTING YOUR CASSETTE TO MP3

1. Insert a cassette.
2. Connect a speaker, headphones or earbuds to the “AUX” port.
3. Plug your USB flash drive into the “OTG” port. You will see the GREEN indicator light.
   NOTE: To conserve battery power, the conversion mechanism will only work when there is a USB drive connected. You can still play cassettes without a USB drive, but you cannot record without a USB drive.
4. Press the “PLAY” button on the top of the device. You should hear music from your cassette.
5. Adjust the volume to your comfort.

RECORDING IN MANUAL MODE

After powering on, this device defaults to Manual Mode. In Manual Mode, you can start and stop the recording any time you like. You can also manually split the recording, to end one track and begin recording a new track.  
When the cassette is playing and a USB flash drive is connected, the device is in standby mode. The solid GREEN LED shows that it is in manual mode.
Press the recording button and the device will begin to convert your cassette to MP3. The GREEN LED will be flashing during recording. Press the recording button again to stop recording and save the MP3 file in your USB flash drive.
If you would like to end one track and begin recording a new track, short press the button. 
The flashing GREEN LED will be off for about 2 seconds, then quick flash again to save in another file.
EXAMPLE: If you are converting a music cassette to MP3, you probably want each song to be a separate MP3 file. As the tape is playing, wait for the pause between songs, then quick press the button. The device will save the song that just ended, and start a new track with the next song.
NOTE: Your files will be in a folder called “TAPEMP3” in your USB drive. The files will be called “FV0001” to “FV9999.” 

RECORDING IN AUTO MODE

In Auto Mode, the device will detect pauses between songs and automatically create new tracks for each song. To turn on Auto Mode, long press the button 3 to 5 seconds, until the LED turns from GREEN to BLUE. Press Play on the cassette, and press record on the device as described above. 
EXAMPLE: It you have 6 songs on one side of the cassette, the device will create 7 MP3 files. Files 1 through 6 will be the songs, and file 7 is an empty track (the blank space after song number 6).   
To switch back to Manual Mode, long press the button 3 to 5 seconds, until the LED turns from BLUE back to GREEN.  

RECORDING VIA AUX PORT

Use the auxiliary line in port (“AUX”) to record music from other sources, such as the radio, mini disc, CD players, or anything with an audio line out. Use Manual or Auto Mode as described above.   

PLAYBACK

This device has a playback function so you can check your new MP3 audio conversions. 

• In standby mode, the press playback button.
• The device will start to play the recorded music, and the indicator will be flashing slowly.
• Press the playback button again, to stop playback and go back to standby mode.
• During playback, use the up/down button to play previous or next file.
• You can also use this device to play other MP3 files, but they must be in the “TAPEMP3” folder.

Setup Guide

Setting up the Sharper Image Cassette To MP3 Converter is a breeze. Simply follow these steps:

1. Connect the USB cable to your computer and plug in the power adapter to a wall outlet.
2. Insert a cassette tape into the cassette deck.
3. Install the software that came with the device on your computer.
4. Follow the prompts to select the cassette tape as the audio source and choose the MP3 format for the output files.
5. Press the play button on the cassette deck to start the conversion process.

Troubleshooting

Here are some common problems and solutions you may encounter when using the Sharper Image Cassette To MP3 Converter:

• Problem: The device is not being recognized by my computer.
• Solution: Make sure the USB cable is properly connected to both the device and your computer. If the problem persists, try using a different USB port or restarting your computer.
• Problem: The audio quality of the MP3 files is poor.
• Solution: Check the condition of the cassette tape and make sure it is not damaged. Also, make sure the cassette deck is properly aligned and the tape is inserted correctly.
• If there is a long pause during the song, this device may “think” it is detecting two different songs and split the recording into two separate files. In this case, we recommend using Manual Mode.
• If the pause between two songs is too short, this device may “think” it is one song, and save both songs as one file. In this case, we recommend using Manual Mode.

SPECIFICATIONS

WARRANTY/CUSTOMER SERVICE

Sharper Image branded items purchased from SharperImage.com include a 1-year limited replacement warranty. If you have any questions not covered in this guide, please call our Customer Service department at 1 (877) 210-3449. Customer Service agents are available Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy to use with clear instructions
• High-quality audio conversion
• Compatible with both Mac and PC
• Affordable price point

Cons

• May not work with some older or damaged cassette tapes
• Limited software compatibility with some devices

Customer Reviews

"I was thrilled to find the Sharper Image Cassette To MP3 Converter. I have a large collection of cassette tapes that I wanted to convert to MP3 files, and this device made the process so easy. The audio quality is excellent, and I love being able to listen to my old tapes on my phone and computer." - Sarah, verified buyer

"I was a little skeptical at first, but this cassette to MP3 converter exceeded my expectations. It was so easy to set up and use, and the audio quality is great. I've already converted several of my old tapes, and I'm looking forward to converting the rest of my collection." - Michael, verified buyer

"I had a few issues with the software compatibility, but the customer service was excellent and they helped me resolve the issue quickly. The device itself works great, and I'm happy with the MP3 files it produces." - Emily, verified buyer

Common Complaints

Some customers have reported issues with software compatibility and limited functionality with certain devices. However, the customer service team has been praised for their quick and helpful responses in resolving these issues.