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Ripping CDs

98.224.225.183
Posted on November 24, 2015 at 17:41:42
Matthew1
 I'm a 15 year old novice with computer audio. I have been experimenting with it and have discovered that downloading CDs to iTunes as Apple Lossless files rather than AAC files results in much better sound quality. I'm interested in other changes that I might make that would improve the sound quality of my system. I have been downloading the CDs using an inexpensive DVD drive (Samsung se-218, about $30 on Amazon). Would using a higher quality drive result in substantially better sound?

 

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RE: Ripping CDs, posted on November 24, 2015 at 17:45:34
Kal Rubinson
Reviewer

Posts: 12436
Location: New York
Joined: June 5, 2002
 It is doubtful that ripping the CDs (not downloading) on a better drive will make any real difference. Focus on the rest of the system.

 

RE: Ripping CDs, posted on November 24, 2015 at 17:54:01
Matthew1
 Thank you!

My system is Mac Mini to Dragonfly/Jitterbug to Audioengine A2 powered speakers. I also sometimes listen through Grado SR225 headphones. Do you have particular recommendations about where to start to upgrade?

 

How do you listen?, posted on November 24, 2015 at 17:57:56
G Squared
Audiophile

Posts: 8491
Location: Washington, DC Metro Area
Joined: November 16, 2004
Contributor
  Since: May 23, 2023
 Headphones (connected to computer, ipod or phone), computer speakers, laptop internal speakers or stereo system.
Gsquared

 

Great start, posted on November 24, 2015 at 17:59:26
G Squared
Audiophile

Posts: 8491
Location: Washington, DC Metro Area
Joined: November 16, 2004
Contributor
  Since: May 23, 2023
 I would consider a sub.
Gsquared

 

RE: Ripping CDs, posted on November 24, 2015 at 22:25:43
PAR
 I don't think that changing the Samsung optical drive will improve anything. In fact I use an SE-208 for ripping CDs myself (virtually the same as yours)and find that it works immaculately.

The software that you use to carry out the ripping can make a difference including to ease of use. I recommend DBpoweramp. You can select it to rip to Apple Lossless if that is your choice - perhaps you use it already?

BTW, welcome to Audio Asylum and to this hobby. I was the same age as you when I started a long, long time ago. I hope that it brings you as much fun and enjoyment.

 

I agree you have started well, posted on November 25, 2015 at 03:54:53
My name is Fred
Audiophile

Posts: 634
Location: Sunshine Coast
Joined: May 23, 2013
 What I am afraid if is that you immediately want to upgrade.
Enjoyment does not really come from better equipment but from listening to music.
Perhaps MORE music.
I have no idea of your finances, but I would suggest sticking with what you have until you are unhappy with it rather than starting an endless drive to upgrade which, as many here will confess, involves large expense and continual dissatisfaction.

 

What Fred said. (NT), posted on November 25, 2015 at 08:03:33
Kal Rubinson
Reviewer

Posts: 12436
Location: New York
Joined: June 5, 2002

 

RE: I agree you have started well, posted on November 25, 2015 at 08:09:43
AbeCollins
Audiophile

Posts: 46302
Location: USA
Joined: June 22, 2001
Contributor
  Since: February 2, 2002
How about large expense and continual learning and enjoyment?

Come on guys, let the kid spend his money on audio! Beats buying liquor and drugs! ;-)




 

How refreshing, posted on November 25, 2015 at 08:13:12
LWR
Audiophile

Posts: 66808
Location: The woods
Joined: August 12, 2003
 to see that some young folks are really wanting to hear better and more convenient ways to enjoy their music. Only upgrade I would consider is a better DAC.
The get Amazon Prime so that you get free shipping on the CDs that you buy...

 

Upgrades?, posted on November 26, 2015 at 19:49:41
bare
Audiophile

Posts: 1879
Joined: April 14, 2009
 Silly as you may find this FIRST thing to do is to upgrade your speakers..
I've heard those (an attractive looking set) and while better than the average 'puter speakers.. Not really much better.. when al is said and done.
You could have notably better sounding speakers for same or Less Coin... if you went to Mark Audio Or Fostex Full range types.
Check em out ? Masdisound or even Parts Express should give you a foothold

 

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