how to get good sounding copies of CDs

Rrm,
It seems to me any "down loaded" format even the so called lossless versions would still be compressed in someway and not allow for the complete frequency range, detail etc. to be carried through. Then when transfered to a C.D. you would end up with a flat lifeless sound. I know when I plug my IPOD into my main rig I can't listen to it very long at normal volumes I can only use it for low level background music.
However I have good succes when coping from C.D. to C.D. using "Record Now" and make an exact copy. To my ears you can't tell the differance between the two disc's, sound stage, timbre, space (air) all seem to be there.

Power amps - Odyssey Audio Mono Blocks Extreme SE's
Preamps - Bryston BP26 and S.F. Line2 SE++
CDP - Cary CD308 (solid state)
SACD/CDP - Sony SCD333ES
Speakers - Paradigm Reference Studio 60V2's
Sub - Paradigm Servo 15v1

Lossless really is lossless, so you won't lose any information.

I haven't used AIFF, but have FLAC and even wav with very good results. I forget what software I use and I'm away from home, so I can't pass that on, but it cost about $30 after the trial ran out.

I have been told, but not tried, that you can make CDs that playback superior to the original if you use more exotic CD stock.

Be sure that your software is not compressing and then decompressing somewhere in the process.

If you check earlier forums you will find that Apple lossless is highly recommended and has been used to make SUPERIOR copies. Perhaps 1x is better? Check the forums out.