Advice: CD's to Hard Drive and Back Again

Just use Exact Audio Copy (EAC) on windows, XLD or Max on Mac. There is built in error correction options with them that will verify the ripping.

Use EAC in test and copy mode and create a cue file. Check the log to make sure there were no errors and to see if the tracks match the Accurip database. If the rip matches the Accurip database then you know it is bit perfect. I always make an sfv of the wav files before I convert them to flac.

You can also use EAC to burn disc using the cue file. You can play with the burn speed. I prefer to burn disc at a slow speed. Use a good quality disc made in Japan such as Taiyo Yuden. If the package says made in Japan it is a good quality disc.

I have found that a CDR only burner makes a better sounding disc then a DVD burner. I don't know if you can still find CDR only burners though. I like to use a drive in an external case with a good quality USB cable. I personally use a Plextor Premium in an external case that is sitting on sorbothane feet. The less errors the less error correction that is needed.

Feel free to PM me if you have any questions or need more help.

Thanks guys, I'll show my further ignorance by continued replies/questions.

I've looked up EAC on the internet and dl'ed a copy, what about the "jitter" associated with my CD drive? Is the "timing" correct etc? Does the EAC "fix" any problems in the reading of the CD (and subsequent burning)?

I buy all my CD's and back them up to the HD.

I'm assuming that your answers indicate that using Nero or Roxio to rip a CD to the hard drive (FLAC or WAV) is not as accurate as EAC. Correct?

My brother has a CD duplicator to back up his CD's is that a better route?

In the past, as a backup method (kind-of like recording albums and then only playing the albums on "special occasions"), I've ripped CD's to the HD as WAV files and then burned those files to CD. Any problems with that approach?

Thanks again! I'm learning, but I'm slow, old, and love music.

Since there's no such thing as a dumb question let me ask, why do you need to back up your cds?
I understand backing up a hard drive because the ripping process is such a pain, but making copies of your cds on a hard drive and then making cdrs? It may be cheaper to buy an extra copy (used) of the cds you consider valuable. It would definitely be less time consuming.