Here’s the process:

Are you ready to get some tapes digitized? Here’s how it’s done:

1. Contact us and let us know what you need to have digitized. This is a small shop where each piece gets individual attention. We’ll send you packing instructions and an Order Form to list your tapes on, and to indicate your digital file storage choices. You can also download the order form.

2. You package up your tapes and send them to us. You can send them by USPS (Media Rate) or by UPS or FedEx. Be sure to have them track your package.

3. Your tapes arrive at Audio-Rescue. They are checked-in and an email confirmation is sent to you.

4. Tapes will be checked for condition and prepared for digitizing. You will be notified if there is a problem. If there is significant damage, we will not try to digitize the tape, but will return it to you and recommend companies that specialize in recovering damaged audio tape.

5. Each tape is played back and digitally recorded on a computer file at 16-bit / 44.1 Kbps. For music, recording can be provided at 24-bit / 96Kbps at an additional cost of $10 per program.

6. The playback, unprocessed, is stored as a preservation copy WAV file for your archive purposes.

7. The program file is then analyzed and adjusted for listening quality. It will be equalized, levels adjusted, and blank spaces removed. The focus is on the program and its clarity. This processed version of the program is also saved as a WAV file.

8. An MP3 copy of the processed program is also provided at 96 Kbps / 44.1 KHz.

9. All three audio files will be provided on a USB thumb drive. Files will be returned on a portable hard drive at no additional cost for orders of 10 or more programs, or can be provided at a cost of $50 for fewer programs.

10. When completed, your tapes will be carefully packaged up, along with the digitized copies, and will be shipped back to you, along with an invoice for the work. (Individuals must pay before the work is done; institutions will be invoiced.)