*** Note: to avoid name-clashing with Rampa's excellent "tap2Lynx" utility, I have renamed these tools ***
I have created two tools to help convert Lynx audio (wav) files to "tap" files - "Mike's Tap Maker Tool", and to convert tap files back to Lynx audio files - "Mike's Wav Maker Tool".
They are two programs that both work in a similar way. You insert the filename you wish to import, and it tries to read the file. If if it finds anything meaningful, it will display the contents in the information box. You can then export the file by specifying a filename and clicking save.
The tools look as follows:
- Mike's Wav Maker Tool Screenshot
- MikesWavMakerScreenshot.png (58.86 KiB) Visto 860 veces
- Mike's Tap Maker Tool Screenshot
- MikesTapMakerScreenshot.png (55.56 KiB) Visto 860 veces
I hope the tools are largely self explanatory, but do ask questions, if necessary.
Currently, when importing a "wav" file, they must be sampled at 22050Hz, and be 16bit PCM files. If your audio files are sampled at different rates, I suggest you use the Audacity program to convert them to the right format (which is easily done).
If an input TAP has multiple files (I call these "multi-taps"), then the output wavs will also contain multiple wavs, for when a tape has more than one program. The output "wavs" audio files are always at "Tape 0" speed, and are also at 22050Hz 16bit PCM files. If all goes well, it should be possible to load into a REAL Lynx (using a suitable cassette cable). The "volume" of the audio is set to 80%. When using a PC, the physical volume may need to be at around 80% too (although this will depend on your PC).
(Advanced tip: If you want your "wav" files to be at Tape 5 speeds, you can adjust the speed in the Audacity program. The default Lynx baud rates are as follows (per the Lynx Manual):
- Tape 0 - 600 baud
Tape 1 - 900 baud
Tape 2 - 1200 baud
Tape 3 - 1500 baud
Tape 4 - 1800 baud
Tape 5 - 2100 baud
The resulting wav files can also be converted to MP3 files in Audacity, if preferred. These seemed to work on my Lynx at Tape 5, so I'm happy.
You can download the installer here:
The installer just puts the tools in your "Program Files/Lynx" folder, and creates some shortcuts in the program menu and desktop.
Anyway, I just wanted to put these early versions of the utilities out there for you all to try, if you get the chance. It's enabled me to recover some tapes, make some taps, and load some new software onto my actual Lynx. If you manage to recover any fun software of your own, please share with everyone.
Anyway, I've probably forgotten something as its getting late here. Please let me know if you have any problems, or indeed successes!!
Happy Lynxing!
