transfer tracks from a 4-track to Mac 10.9.5?

I’m having trouble transferring my tracks from my 4-track to my Mac 10.9.5 because there isn’t an input on the Mac for my stereo-1/8 inch converter, only a headphone jack. I bought a stereo- USB converter and when I plug it in, it doesn’t show in Audacity, the only input option is the built in microphone. I was told that stereo to 1/8 inch converter may not work because it’s transferring analog to digital, and there needs to be a buffer. Is there a stereo- 1/8 inch converter that converts the signal in itself?

Any other suggestions?

Exactly what type of Mac do you have? Which version of Audacity are you using?

Quit Audacity. Plug in your USB audio device. Go to Apple Menu > System Preferences > Audio > Inputs. Do you see a “USB Audio CODEC” there? If not, you won’t see it in Audacity.

– Bill