The 4 Best CD Recorders and CD Recording Systems of 2021

CD and digital audio recording systems to preserve your music

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Updated on February 24, 2021

Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.

The Rundown

Best Overall:

TEAC CDRW890 Mk. II at B&H Photo Video

"An affordable option in a high-quality CD recorder."

Runner-Up, Best Overall:

Tascam CD-RW900 Mk. II at Amazon

"A CD recorder that provides more precise control."

Best for Transfers:

Audio-Technica AT-LP60-USB at Amazon

"All the software you need to transfer old LP Vinyl records to CD or MP3."

Best User Friendly:

TEAC LPR550-USB at Amazon

"Just put on your record, put in your audio cassette and then also slide in your blank CD and you are set."

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Buy on B&H Photo Video

TEAC has been a leader in audio recorders since the reel-to-reel tape days and continues this tradition in both its professional and consumer line of CD recorders. The CDRW890 is an affordable option in a high-quality CD recorder. This recorder features both analog and digital audio inputs, as well as analog output capability. With its very straightforward operation, the CDRW890 (currently in its mkII generation) definitely deserves consideration for those copying from CD, Cassette, or vinyl record source material. You can also make live CD recordings by connecting a microphone to an audio mixer and then connecting the audio mixer to the CD recorder.

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Tascam CD-RW900MKII Professional CD Recorder

Buy on Amazon Buy on Walmart

If you are really serious about listening to your music on CD or make your own original CD recordings, the Tascam CD-RW900MKII CD Recorder is an option to consider.

Made by TEAC, TASCAM products are targeted for the professional market, but that doesn't mean that consumers can't take advantage of them.

The CD-RW900MKII has analog and both digital optical and coaxial audio inputs and outputs.

For recording, the CD-RW900MKII features independent level controls for both the left and right channel inputs, pitch control, as well as a jog control to facilitate more precise editing.

In addition, a front panel P/S2 keyboard input is provided (you need to buy the keyboard separately) that allows additional control capability.

For playback, there is a 4-second memory buffer - so if the unit is bumped, or there is an intermittent glitch, smooth CD playback is more reliable.

If you are looking for a CD recorder that provides more precise control, especially for home-produced recordings, check out the Tascam CD-RW900MKII.

Microphone(s) must be connected to an external audio mixer.

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Buy on Amazon

The Audio Technica AT-LP60-USB LP-to-Digital Recording System is a package that includes an audio turntable (with cartridge) with a USB output that can connect to a PC or Laptop. Also included is all the software you need to transfer old LP Vinyl records to CD or MP3 for continued listening pleasure on a home audio system or portable digital music player. An added bonus is that the turntable has a built-in preamp that allows it to be connected to standard CD or AUX audio inputs on home theater receivers that may not have a dedicated turntable input.

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Teac LPR550-USB CD Recorder with Cassette and Turntable

Buy on Amazon

With today's popularity of CDs and MP3s, there is a definite need to be able to transfer all those old vinyl records and cassette tapes so that you can listen to them in a more convenient manner. With the TEAC LP And Cassette To CD/Digital Converter, just put on your record, put in your audio cassette and then also slide in your blank CD and you are set to go. Also, after installing the provided Audacity software when connected to a PC (or Mac), the converter can transfer your cassettes and vinyl records to your PC as MP3 files for playback directly from your PC or transfer to a portable MP3 player.

However, that isn't all, the TEAC LP And Cassette To CD/Digital Converter also incorporates a built-in stereo amplifier and speakers for a great listening experience for a variety of room settings.

Final Verdict

If you're one of the few people that still needs to record or make copies of CDs we have to recommend the TEAC CDRW890 Mk. II for its compact form factor and ease of use.

About Our Trusted Experts

Robert Silva started reporting on consumer electronics in 1998. Since 2000, he's focused more closely on home entertainment and home theater technology. Since studying electronics in high school, he's been a fervent electronics and audiophile hobbyist.

FAQs

Can CDs support lossless audio files like FLAC?
They can. Arguably one of the few things keeping physical media afloat is their ability to support premium audio formats whose size makes them difficult to manage through streaming. It is important to note however, that FLAC files are roughly six times larger than MP3s, which will severely limit the number of tracks you can have on a single Disc. Also, not all CD players are equipped to play FLACs, which can lead to compatibility issues.

I'm trying to consolidate my CD collection, what do I do with my old CDs?
If you're tired of extra CDs taking up space on your shelf or in your closet, there are plenty of ways to recycle your CDs, whether you want to turn them into a fun art project or you're just looking for a way to responsibly dispose of your now obsolete pieces of plastic.

My player can't read my CD anymore, can I copy my CD to fix it?
It largely depends on the kind of damage your Disc has suffered, you might be able to salvage its contents by copying it to a new Disc. However, if the damage is too severe, all you'll end up with is an imperfect copy of an already damaged Disc.

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