Introduction
Thank you for choosing the SEMIER SM-136 Small Cassette Tape Player and Digital Converter. This versatile device allows you to enjoy your classic cassette tapes, record new audio, and convert your analog recordings into modern digital MP3 files. It supports direct conversion to an SD card or conversion to a computer via Audacity software. With its compact design, built-in speaker, and headphone jack, it offers a convenient way to preserve and enjoy your audio collection.
What's in the Box
Please check the package contents to ensure all items are present:
- Cassette Recorder Converter (SM-136) x 1
- 16GB SD Card x 1
- USB Reader x 1
- Software CD-ROM x 1 (for Audacity)
- User Manual x 1
- 5V DC USB Power Cord (Type-C) x 1
Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the various parts and controls of your SM-136 device:
- Cassette Compartment: Insert your cassette tapes here.
- Control Buttons: Play, Stop, Fast Forward, Rewind, Record, Repeat, Delete.
- LCD Display: Shows playback time, recording status, and SD card information.
- Built-in Speaker: For audio playback without headphones.
- 3.5mm Headphone Jack: For private listening.
- Built-in Microphone: For recording audio directly to cassette or SD card.
- SD Card Slot: Insert the provided 16GB SD card for digital recording and playback.
- USB-C Port: For power supply and connecting to a computer for digital conversion.
- Battery Compartment: For 4x AA batteries (not included).
Setup
Powering the Device
The SM-136 can be powered in two ways:
- USB-C Power: Connect the included USB-C cable to the device's USB-C port and the other end to a 5V DC USB power adapter (not included) or a computer's USB port.
- AA Batteries: Open the battery compartment on the back of the unit and insert four (4) AA batteries (not included), ensuring correct polarity.
Inserting a Cassette Tape
Gently open the cassette compartment door. Insert your cassette tape with the open side facing upwards, ensuring it clicks into place. Close the compartment door firmly.
Inserting the SD Card
Locate the SD card slot on the side of the device. Insert the included 16GB SD card until it clicks into place. Ensure it is inserted correctly to avoid damage.
Operating Instructions
Playing Cassette Tapes
- Insert a cassette tape.
- Press the PLAY button. The tape will begin to play.
- Adjust the volume using the volume control knob.
- To stop playback, press the STOP button.
- Use the FF (Fast Forward) and REW (Rewind) buttons to navigate through the tape.
Recording to Cassette (via Built-in Mic)
The SM-136 allows you to record audio directly onto a cassette tape using its built-in microphone.
- Insert a blank or recordable cassette tape.
- Press the RECORD button. The device will automatically start recording from the built-in microphone.
- To stop recording, press the STOP button.
Converting Cassette to MP3 (to SD Card)
This method allows direct conversion without a computer.
- Ensure the 16GB SD card is inserted into the device.
- Insert the cassette tape you wish to convert.
- Press the PLAY button to start the tape.
- While the tape is playing, press the REC (Record) button. The LCD display will indicate recording to SD card.
- To stop recording, press the STOP button. The recorded MP3 file will be saved on the SD card.
- To access the MP3 files, remove the SD card and use the included USB reader to connect it to your computer.
Converting Cassette to MP3 (to Computer via Audacity)
For more advanced control over your digital conversion, use the included Audacity software.
- Install Audacity software from the included CD-ROM or download it from the official Audacity website (www.audacityteam.org/download/).
- Connect the SM-136 to your computer using the provided USB-C cable.
- Open Audacity. Go to Audio Setup > Recording Device and select the SM-136 (it may appear as "USBAUDIO2.0" or similar). If it doesn't appear, play a tape on the SM-136 and then go to Audio Setup > Rescan Audio Devices.
- Insert the cassette tape you wish to convert into the SM-136.
- In Audacity, click the Record button.
- On the SM-136, press the PLAY button to start the tape.
- Once the tape has finished playing or you wish to stop recording, click the Stop button in Audacity and on the SM-136.
- You can now edit the audio in Audacity and export it as an MP3 file.
SD Card Playback
The SM-136 can also play MP3 files stored on the SD card.
- Ensure the SD card with MP3 files is inserted.
- The device will automatically switch to SD card playback mode.
- Use the PLAY/PAUSE, NEXT, PREVIOUS, and REP (Repeat) buttons to control playback.
Using the Headphone Jack
For private listening, plug any standard 3.5mm headphones into the headphone jack located on the side of the device. The built-in speaker will automatically mute when headphones are connected.
Using the Built-in Speaker
The SM-136 features a built-in 2W speaker for convenient audio playback without external devices. Ensure no headphones are plugged in for the speaker to function.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.
- Cassette Head Cleaning: Periodically clean the cassette heads and pinch rollers using a specialized cassette head cleaning kit to ensure optimal sound quality and prevent tape damage.
- Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Battery Removal: If the device will not be used for an extended period, remove the AA batteries to prevent leakage.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not power on. | No power source; batteries drained or incorrectly inserted; USB cable faulty. | Ensure USB-C cable is securely connected to a working power source. If using batteries, check polarity and replace with fresh ones. |
| Cassette tape not playing/recording. | Tape incorrectly inserted; tape damaged; mechanism jammed. | Re-insert tape correctly. Check tape for damage. Do not force the tape. |
| Poor sound quality from cassette. | Dirty cassette heads; worn-out tape; low battery. | Clean cassette heads. Try a different tape. Replace batteries or use USB power. |
| SD card not recognized ("NO" on display). | SD card incorrectly inserted; card corrupted; incompatible card. | Remove and re-insert the SD card firmly. Try a different SD card. Ensure the card is formatted correctly (FAT32). |
| Cannot record to computer via Audacity. | Incorrect audio input device selected in Audacity; USB connection issue. | In Audacity, go to Audio Setup > Recording Device and select the correct input (e.g., "USBAUDIO2.0"). If not visible, play a tape on the SM-136 and then Rescan Audio Devices in Audacity. Ensure USB cable is functional. |
| No sound from speaker/headphones. | Volume too low; headphones not fully plugged in; faulty speaker/headphones. | Increase volume. Ensure headphones are fully inserted. Test with different headphones or check speaker function. |
Specifications
- Model: SM-136
- Product Dimensions: 6.3 x 3.9 x 1.2 inches (16 x 9.9 x 3 cm)
- Item Weight: 0.52 lbs (13.7 ounces / 235g)
- Power Source: 4x AA Batteries (not included) or USB-C 5V DC
- Speaker Output: 2W
- Audio Output: 3.5mm Headphone Jack
- Recording Media: Cassette Tape, Micro SD Card
- Digital Conversion Format: MP3
Warranty and Support
SEMIER is committed to providing high-quality products and excellent customer service. If you encounter any issues or have questions regarding your SM-136 Cassette Player and Digital Converter, please contact our dedicated customer support team. We strive for a 100% satisfactory experience for all our customers.
For support, please refer to the contact information provided in your product packaging or visit the official SEMIER store page on Amazon.
