1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the DIGITNOW Cassette Player & MP3 Converter. This device is designed to help you effortlessly convert your cherished cassette tape collection into digital MP3 files, preserving your audio memories for years to come. It also functions as a portable cassette player, allowing you to enjoy your tapes on the go.
Figure 1: DIGITNOW Cassette Player and MP3 Converter
2. What's in the Box
Please check the package contents to ensure all items are present:
- 1 x Cassette Tape to MP3 Converter
- 1 x USB Cable
- 1 x Earphone
- 1 x User Manual
Figure 2: Package Contents
3. Product Features & Components
The DIGITNOW Cassette Player & MP3 Converter is equipped with various features for optimal performance:
- Plug and Play: Convert tapes directly to MP3 files on a USB flash drive without needing a PC.
- USB Cassette Capture: Effortlessly digitize old tapes with playback functionality. Compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 flash drives (FAT32 format, up to 32GB).
- Auto Reverse Function: Automatically switches to the other side of the tape for continuous playback or recording.
- Auto & Manual Mode: Allows automatic or manual partitioning of each song into separate MP3 files.
- High-Quality Audio Output: Supports audio rates of A44.1 and 32kHz@16-bit, with L/R audio channels and a bit rate of 128 Kbps.
- Portable Design: Compact and lightweight, ideal for use anywhere.
- Multiple Power Options: Can be powered by a USB port or 2x AA batteries.
- 3.5mm AUX Jack: For connecting earphones or external speaker systems.
3.1. Component Identification
Figure 3: Front and Back Controls
- Front Side Controls: PLAY, DIR (Direction/Auto Reverse), F.F (Fast Forward), REWIND, STOP, VOL (Volume), OTG (USB port), AUX (3.5mm jack).
- Back Side Controls: Prev (Previous Track), Play/Pause, REC (Record), Next/Mode, VOL+ (Volume Up), Standalone/Auto Partition switch, DC 5V (Power input).
Figure 4: Internal Mechanism and Power Options
- Magnetic Head: Reads audio from the cassette tape.
- Metal Cassette Deck (Mechanism): Holds and plays the cassette tape.
4. Setup
4.1. Power Supply
The device can be powered in two ways:
- USB Power: Connect the included USB cable to the DC 5V port on the device and to a USB port on your computer or a 5V DC adapter (not included).
- Battery Power: Open the battery compartment and insert 2x AA batteries (not included). Ensure correct polarity.
4.2. Inserting a Cassette Tape
- Open the cassette compartment door.
- Insert your cassette tape with the desired side facing up.
- Close the compartment door securely.
4.3. Connecting Earphones/Speakers
Plug the included earphones or your preferred 3.5mm audio cable into the AUX jack on the side of the device.
Figure 5: Listening with Earphones
4.4. Inserting a USB Flash Drive (for MP3 Conversion)
Insert a USB flash drive (FAT32 format, up to 32GB, not included) into the OTG USB port on the side of the device.
Figure 6: USB Flash Drive Insertion
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Playing Cassette Tapes
- Ensure a cassette tape is inserted and the device is powered on.
- Press the PLAY button on the front side.
- Adjust the volume using the VOL knob on the front side or VOL+ / VOL- buttons on the back.
- To change tape direction or activate auto-reverse, use the DIR switch.
- Use F.F (Fast Forward) or REWIND buttons to navigate the tape.
- Press the STOP button to cease playback.
5.2. Converting Cassette Tapes to MP3
This device allows you to convert your tapes to MP3 files directly onto a USB flash drive.
- Ensure a USB flash drive is inserted into the OTG port.
- Insert the cassette tape you wish to convert.
- Press the REC (Record) button on the back side. The green indicator light will flash, indicating recording has started.
- Auto/Manual Mode: Use the Standalone/Auto Partition switch on the back to select your preferred recording mode. In Auto mode, the device attempts to save each song as a separate MP3 file. In Manual mode, you control when new files are created.
- Once recording is complete, press the STOP button.
- Remove the USB flash drive and connect it to your computer to access and manage the MP3 files.
Figure 7: Converting to MP3
Video 1: Demonstration of Cassette Player and Tape to MP3 Converter functionality. This video shows the device in operation, highlighting its ability to convert audio from cassette tapes to digital MP3 files.
6. Maintenance
- Keep the device clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth.
- Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- When not in use for extended periods, remove the batteries to prevent leakage.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power / Device not turning on | Dead or incorrectly inserted batteries; USB cable not connected properly or faulty. | Replace batteries, ensuring correct polarity. Check USB cable connection and try a different USB port or adapter. |
| Wobbly or muddy sound during playback/recording | Low battery power; dirty tape heads; worn-out cassette tape. | Ensure fresh batteries or stable USB power. Clean tape heads with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. Try a different cassette tape. |
| Device not recording to USB flash drive | USB flash drive not formatted to FAT32; USB drive capacity too large (>32GB); incompatible USB drive; USB drive full. | Ensure USB drive is formatted to FAT32 and is 32GB or less. Try a different brand/model of USB flash drive. Delete unnecessary files from the USB drive. |
| No sound from earphones/speakers | Volume too low; earphones/speakers not plugged in correctly or faulty. | Increase volume. Ensure earphones/speakers are fully inserted into the AUX jack. Test with another pair of earphones/speakers. |
| Recording stops unexpectedly | Low battery power; issue with the cassette tape. | Check power supply. Try a different cassette tape. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 4.65 x 1.26 x 3.35 inches |
| Item Weight | 10.2 ounces |
| Model Number | BR608 |
| Power Supply | USB (DC 5V) or 2x AA Batteries |
| USB Compatibility | USB 2.0, USB 3.0 (FAT32 format, <32GB) |
| Audio Rates | A44.1 and 32kHz@16-bit |
| Audio Channel | L/R |
| Bit Rate | 128 Kbps |
9. Warranty & Support
DIGITNOW provides comprehensive support for your product:
- Warranty: This product comes with an 18-Month Warranty from the date of purchase.
- Online Support: We offer 24-HOUR online support for any queries or issues you may encounter. Please refer to the contact information provided in your purchase documentation for support details.
