Q: I have been digitizing my cassette tapes using Audacity. The LPs are next. What is the best way to store and listen to these treasures? I don't want to burn any more CDs. Is iTunes the best way to organize and play these files?
A: As a Mac user, I still find iTunes to be the best option, but I am open to ideas if readers have other suggestions. What I do recommend is that you pass on Audacity for digitizing the vinyl and use AlpineSoft VinylStudio ($29.95) instead. I like it a lot more than Audacity. Though it is optimized for converting records, it works with cassettes, too. VinylStudio is available for Mac and Windows systems. alpinesoft.co.uk
Product update
More from the Consumer Electronics Show: Olympus (getolympus.com) now has two lines of Micro Four Thirds cameras. The OM-D series cameras have an SLR form factor and a built-in electronic viewfinder. The live view PEN series cameras are styled like rangefinder cameras, but until now they lacked an integrated viewfinder.
With the integrated viewfinders, advanced capabilities and high value equation, the OM-D line tends to get the most attention from both the media and from consumers. That may change with the new Olympus PEN-F. I was able to spend two weeks taking pictures with one. The PEN-F is easily the best Olympus PEN camera yet, and one of the most satisfying cameras I've used.
The PEN-F's premium construction and vintage rangefinder styling remind me of a Leica M camera. Among its many features are an electronic viewfinder, a new 20 MP sensor, five-axis image stabilization, 50 MP high resolution mode and a front-mounted creative dial that allows you to quickly choose between Olympus Art Filters, different color profiles and film modes that duplicate the look of classic black and white and color films.
The PEN-F offers a tactile experience unmatched at the price. The great feel, combined with the classic form and array of creative controls, make photography fun and rewarding. Using it reminded me of my initial experience with the first Olympus digital PEN, the E-P1. I posted the original column about the E-P1 on my site at tinyurl.com/lindichpens so you can see the similarities.
I have a minor quibble about the time needed to wake the viewfinder from sleep mode, and the video capabilities are behind some competitors. If video is a priority, you will be better served with Panasonic's excellent DMC-GX8, given its advanced video capabilities and 4K video. I will have more about the GX8 in an upcoming column.
Though it can use zooms as well as any other camera can, I would buy the camera with prime (non-zoom) lenses, notably the Olympus 12mm/f2, 25mm/1.8 and 45mm/1.8 lenses. This lens ensemble would re-create the classic rangefinder experience, providing tremendous imaging power in a lightweight outfit that fits in a small bag. It would cost $2,697 at list prices, but you could get it for less on sale or at the Olympus Outlet. If that price seems steep, consider the cost of the Leica equivalent: a mere $18,627. Though the PEN-F is a premium product with a premium price, it is still a good value for those who want something special.
Send questions to Don Lindich at donlindich@gmail.com. Get recommendations and read past columns at soundadvicenews.com.