If you've still got a few old cassette tapes lurking in cupboards and attics, then gadget maker Thanko's cassette tape to MP3 converter could unleash a range of memorable recordings, songs and mix tapes that have been locked away since the age of the CD player.

Cassette Mate connects to a computer through a USB port and the software allows users to save the music and recordings as MP3 files. According to Geek.com the software can even identify the breaks between songs and goes on to save them as separate tracks.

The device is designed to have a very retro feel about it and I'm sure that it'll prove to be popular, particularly as it's so inexpensive and easy to run at only $30 and powered by two AA batteries. Available from the Thanko website (Japanese).

Via Geek.com