Audio input to Mac mini from analog 3.5mm jack.

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Level 1

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Audio input to Mac mini from analog 3.5mm jack.

I'm trying to input audio from a analog cassette deck, VECTOR RESEARCH stereo cassette deck VCX-450 with a 3.5mm adapter cable, into a 2020 Mac mini. The deck has an high end stereo mic connected to it with sound through capabilities. The mini only has one 3.5mm opening which is for headphones, output only. I've looked online at several lightning / USB headphone cables but from I can tell they will not work. I'm trying to salvage the high end mic with some kind of work around but not having much luck. This system worked really well before when I had a 2010 Mac that had a separate audio input opening. I was able to input the audio, (voice over), and edit with Audacity.

Any help would be great, Thanks.

Mac mini, macOS 12.5

Posted on Sep 13, 2022 12:42 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

den.thed

Level 10

83,068 points

Sep 13, 2022 2:17 PM in response to Xrtabacon

The old Mac's had output and input sockets that both accepted TRS jack plugs.

The new Mac's has a single output/input socket that require a headset with a TRRS jack plug.

So what you need to capture input from the cassette deck to the new Mac is a USB audio adapter.

https://www.amazon.com/Sabrent-External-Adapter-Windows-AU-MMSA/dp/B00IRVQ0F8/ref=asc_df_B00IRVQ0F8/?

https://www.amazon.com/Plugable-Headphone-Microphone-Aluminum-Compatible/dp/B00NMXY2MO

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Answer 2

Xrtabacon Author

Level 1

4 points

Sep 21, 2022 1:53 PM in response to den.thed

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RVNV6BY?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details

So I purchased this one and got it all connected. It has some recording software that has to be downloaded, which was a little cumbersome, but it works and records in stereo. The mic I was trying to salvage works great in Zoom, and I've been transferring some old cassette tapes on to Audacity. Have yet to hook up the turntable but I'm confident it work also.

Thanks.

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