The Crosley Songwriter products are a great option/supplement. So nice to see this information passed along, Annie!
I've had some discussions with people who have used these. Most people are satisfied with the reproduced sound. But then there are those who adhere to the school of thought that the quality produced by any digital method is no match.
Also, the permanence of CD's should be considered. Thought I'd pass along this website:
http://www.chin.gc.ca/English/Digita...ons/media.html
Here, you will find some great links for resources/references pertaining to the preservation of digital storage devices and issues regarding reading devices.
In regards to the latter...something most of us wouldn't even think twice about! I encourage everyone to read up on this.
It really isn't known how long CD's will 'last', but studies do show that the same conditions that adversely affect other recording materials (cassette tapes, records)also do so with CD's.
Some simple measures for extending the life of a CD are proper cleaning and handling techniques.
Don't know if this is mentioned in any of the links...but I've also seen it recommended that jewel cases be replaced every year or two. Also, the cases do have vents to allow for air flow so wherever and however you store the CD's...should allow for some air flow into these vents. Of course, there can be particles and moisture in the air so all conditions need to be taken into consideration.
Many people stock up on blank CD's and thus may be using a poorer/compromised quality material to record on. Best to use newly manufactured CD's. If you burn a CD that's already 5 years old...
Not only for music recordings...but if you are storing photos on a CD, again make sure to use fresh CD's and record the date that the CD was burned. Plan on burning a new CD by about 5 years (less than 5 if used/handled and if it's been subjected to an environment where relative humidity hasn't been maintained).
Pam