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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
shadorne's avatar
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shadorne
7,477 posts
 
Don't use WAV - you will lose album info...

I'd use AIFF or Apple Lossless.

Check Benchmark DAC1 wiki guide for iTunes setup (settings for bit transparent playback) and keep checking regularly in case a big crops up with a new iTunes version (you'll get automatic updates every month or so but sometimes a new version introduces an error)

If you turn error correction on then iTunes is apparently bit transparent when it burns your lossless files.
themadmilkman
182 posts
 
For ripping, take a look at Max:

http://sbooth.org/Max/
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
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