I have a cassette recorder with a microphone input, no line-in. I'd like to record some audio coming from my computer. No matter how low I set the computer's output volume the recorded signal is way too loud and potentially overdriven. Due to the low output level the SNR of the computer's output is so low you can hear a loud buzzing in silent parts.
How can I lower the volume of the output that it's on microphone level?
You're likely looking at the harsh reality of mic level vs. line level recording. Line level, such as your headphone output, is a much stronger signal than mic level, which, given your symptoms, is likely the case on your cassette recorder. The loud buzzing in silent parts, overdriven audio, and a sound quality that's best described as "crispy" are all the hallmarks of a mismatch between line and mic.
A couple options: you can't adjust the output from the laptop. Most recording devices have a switch labelled "line" and "mic". Flip the switch to "line" so it matches your output. If you've got no switch and you're handy with electronics (or know someone who is), try this.
Good luck!
