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Ripping to Mac OSX

I have good ears, but no real computer knowledge. I've just purchased a Mac Mini with Snow Leopard, running it via USB (for now) into a PS Audio PWD.

I don't have a huge collection, so at this point, I've just decided to save into WAV format using Itunes.

Questions:

Is there a sonic reason to use another program other than Itunes to rip normal redbook CDs?

On non hirez, is there a reason to use a player other than Itunes for sound quality reasons?

I very much enjoy reading the posts on this thread. I've learned much, though quite a bit of the info shared is over my head!
ricky64
vegasears
1,173 posts
 
For may years I have read of the Flac format but never given it a try until recently. The programs I use are freeware and very easy to use. The ripping program is “MAX” and the playback program is Cog.

The Flac ripped music is not as easy to access but to me and my ears it sounds better.

Itunes is easy to learn and use. MAX and Cog are not as easy but through trial and error I was able to dial them in quick. I have another challenge now, ripping vinyl to flac to mac.
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,381 posts
 
AIFF with error correction via itunes gets the job done easily and doesn't lose metadata(art, etc.). Apple lossless will use less space, but AIFF doesn't lose anything. Stick with AIFF. Cheers,
Spencer
usblues
1,217 posts
 
All good replies.You also can try computeraudiophile.com.A great site for this question and all others your bound to have,good luck,Bob
hgeifman
2,295 posts
 
I have a MAC Book Pro (4 MB RAM) and use iTunes with AIFF with error correction to transfer my CD's to a Seagate Free Agent Go Pro 500 GB external hard drive connected to the MAC via Firewire. It takes around 4-5+ minutes per CD. AIFF takes more disk space and produces the best sound quality. My MAC is connected to an Ayre USB DAC connected (balanced cables) to my Ayre AX-7e Integrated amplifier.
coverto
44 posts
 
So I'm guessing that some folks would say - if you've already ripped your library to Apple Lossless and are looking to improve the sound, it's better to re-rip everything to AIFF than to simply convert the existing Apple Lossless files to AIFF by pushing a button? Or does it not make a difference?
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