polzyb

idolse - Many thanks for your reply - very helpful and informative!<br /> <br /> hubsand - it would appear that there are several(!) million users disagree with you on the fact that the rip does not matter - check eac and dbpoweramp forums just for starters.......<br /> <br /> And if you are (one is) so concerned about end audio fidelity (and if not then why be here, right?) why not ensure (as much as possible) that every link in the chain is considered and otpimised? Have you actually done any real-world testing and A-B comparisons regarding ripping cd's - using different s/ware / h/ware / setting combinations - in relation to end audio outcome?<br /> <br /> As Chris point out - audiophiles will go to lengths to consider 0.1% end diffferences - keep an open mind, respect others opinions and sleep easy in the fact that AIFF is the right baby for YOU!<br /> <br /> I mean no harm or offense in this - we all have more or less knowledge in these matters. It is the synergy and synthesis of gathered (like) minds sharing their experiences that prevails and, ultimately, satisfies.<br /> <br /> polzyb<br /> <br />

Reading this thread with unbridled enthusiasm - incredibly pertinent to me at the moment; about to commence on a considerable music ripping undertaking (using Vista laptop PC with end interface Media Monkey). MUCH thanks, praise and respect for ALL comments!! )<br /> <br /> A few points / questions:<br /> <br /> (i) Rather than debate (joust) which is best - why not TRY them out [AIFF, WAV, FLAC] on one's OWN system and (personally) decide on which sounds (personally) 'BEST'(!)(?)(!). <br /> Variables including system, conditions, individual preference, room acoustics, ambience, one's current mood, type of music, one's own ears, auditory health and ability to 'listen', hell, even chaos theory (maybe) all combine to form personal opinion. (etc. etc. etc.)<br /> I say see (hear) what sounds most pleasing and satisfying, go with it and don't forget to ENJOY it! )<br /> <br /> That said - that nugget does not for a good discussion make - so PLEASE keep contributing!<br /> <br /> (ii) I would like to hear some thoughts / comments on using ExactAudioCopy (eac) http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/<br /> with reference to ripping cd's to computer. Any opinions out there on what constitutes appropriate considerations for accurate ripping? (particularly with regard to eac)<br /> <br /> (iii) I have a laptop with internal (albeit hot swappable) cd/dvd/bd combo drive. I am considering purchasing an external usb cd (or cd/dvd) for ripping purposes. Any thoughts or recommendations to this idea?<br /> <br /> My Current Thinking: Rip cd using exactaudiocopy (incorporating the 'correct' settings - need to do a bit of homework on this one) into FLAC. Tag and archive within FLAC and then consider converting to WAV / AIFF depending on personal preference and how well it 'plays' with media monkey (re: compatibility whilst maintaining tags etc).<br /> <br /> Any and all thoughts and responses appreciated and respected........<br /> <br /> polzyb