Stereo audio input to MBP 16 in.

Question

Stereo audio input to MBP 16 in.

As others have asked, I'm also trying to transfer old cassette tapes to my MBP. Since the 16 in. does not have an audio input port (just a headphone port which I understand is for output only), I have to use a USB-c port, which requires an audio jack-to-USB adapter. I purchased one of these (Dukabel) and changed the sound preference input to "USB audio device" for the tape deck. My setup is using an auxiliary cable (male to male) from the tape deck to the audio jack-to-USB adapter and then a USB-A to USB-C adapter to the MBP.

However, the audio software (Quicktime Player and Audacity) is only sensing a monaural audio input signal. Is it the nature of these audio jack-to-USB (A or C) adapters to only pass through a mono signal?

How do I input a stereo audio signal via USB or other method?

MacBook Pro 16″, macOS 10.15

Posted on Aug 6, 2020 5:50 PM

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Answer 1

Johnb-one

Level 6

9,180 points

Aug 6, 2020 6:05 PM in response to Stephen Prensky

just checked in it-should come up as c-media usb headset, then volume. Try running audio midi setup under utilities, otherwise could be bad cable or adapter. If u can, try using rca ouputs from casette deck. Audacity app/software is good too. U should get the one that supports TRRS, and not the 2 colored one- will not work in mac in stereo-will b mono only

grusse

john b

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Answer 2

Aug 7, 2020 9:02 AM in response to Stephen Prensky

Apparently, the inexpensive audio jack-to-USB adapters (audio interfaces) ,even those with TRRS capability (as the one I purchased Dukabel), are designed for adding a mic and so only input a mono signal even if the originating signal is stereo. Audacity lists several USB to external audio interfaces but they are expensive ($100+). Can anyone suggest a low or modestly priced audio-USB interface known input a digital signal via the USB port on a 2019 MacBook Pro?

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Answer 3

Aug 7, 2020 12:51 PM in response to Johnb-one

I returned the Dukabel audio-jack to USB adapter and ordered the Technical Pro Digital/Analog Audio Converter ($35). This uses RCA directly to USB. Will let you know if this works. The reviews indicate that others have had success with it for the same application that I'm planning to use it for (cassette tape conversion).

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Answer 4

Johnb-one

Level 6

9,180 points

Aug 7, 2020 1:20 PM in response to Stephen Prensky

Ok -sounds good to me. I think i used my mom’s pro walkman last time i did it, but then again, all i needed was a straight 3.5 mm trs female to trrs male and it worked. Of course i have a mac pro desktop with both a mic input and a line in input. If you find a good deal on the behringer u-foria, grab it

john b

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