In the tutorial there is reference to insert cable into a third opening which is blue. My computer has only a "headphone " and "Microphone" opening. ???? where does the input go ????
For input ports there are basically 2.
Red (pink for some) is a microphone port. This is a MONO port that adds a +20 gain boost for amplifying the microphone signal. This will distort the audio that comes in that is already amplified. Plus, it would be left channel only.
Blue is the Line-In port. This is a STEREO port that allows the recording at line level (0db). Therefore it is ideal for let’s say having your stereo system (turntable, tape-deck, and receiver) recorded. Therefore when you adjust the volume of the receiver, it adjusts the volume in the recording.
Now, some computers (especially laptops) only have a microphone and headphone connection. You need to check with the manufacture to see if the microphone port has a switch that allows that port to be used as a LINE-IN port. I know my HP laptop does. I can record stereo line level by switching my recording device through Windows.
Some computers cannot. That means you need a sound card for your computer. You need a stereo connection that records line level.
Will recording an amplified signal with a microphone port hurt your system?
It can, you can damage the hardware components and speakers if things are too loud, the situation though is you are still getting a mono recording.
Here is how I am connected...
I have my stereo system hooked up as normal, so I could listen to the vinyl records, tapes and even my reel-to-reel without plugging this or that in again.
I take the output (tape out but some might be main out or stereo out) of the receiver (which is an amplifier) using a red/white RCA composite connection on one end to a stereo 1/4" mini jack (supplied with the Rescue your vinyl) to the blue Line-In port of my computer.
I open to record, and I verify the monitoring of the audio so I can adjust the volume level if necessary.
I hope this helps...