Package: gramofile (1.6-12)

transfer sound from gramophone records to CD

GramoFile enables you to record audio from (for example) gramophone records, process the signal and listen to the results. Because sound files in .WAV-format are used, it is possible to exchange the files with many other programs. Wodim(1) can burn CD-Recordables of these, so you can make CDs with the music of your favorite records. The user interface of GramoFile has a windows-like look-and-feel, making it fairly easy to use.

One of the most important parts of GramoFile is the ability to process digital audio signals. Through the application of several filters it is possible to accomplish a significant reduction of disturbances like ticks and scratches. These filters have been programmed in such a fashion that they can be applied in any order (and multiple times) in a single run, thus avoiding the use of temporary files. It is possible to adjust the properties of each filter independently, so in every situation an optimal result can be achieved.

Another interesting feature is the track splitting. Just make one .wav file of an entire side of an record and GramoFile will detect where the individual tracks are located. This happens fully automatically, without need to set any options. More experienced users may fine-tune the algorithm, or change the detected track starts and ends, but generally that will not be necessary. Track-times are saved in an editable (plaintext) .tracks file, that will be used during the signal processing to produce one processed .wav file for each individual track.

To record and play .wav files, modified versions of brec(1) and bplay(1) by David Monro are included. These programs provide buffered recording and playback, so all will go well even on a highly loaded system. Both programs have been modified to support the standard GramoFile user interface. Brec also got a `graphical' peak level meter, and bplay a running time display.