Ripping CD's to load onto a new Aurender N20 Server/Streamer


Greetings All,

I know this question has probably been asked before but I'll ask again as I'm upgrading my digital front end. (I'm mainly an LP person but want to keep up with the latest digital trends)

I'm currently using a Sony HAP-Z1ES which allows me to copy CD's directly to the internal hard drive including all metadata and then grabs the album artwork via Grace Note.

I'm upgrading to a brand new Aurender N20 Server/Streamer. I know streaming will allow access to endless music choices with metadata and album art but in some cases i want to rip some of my CD's and load them onto the N20 SSD storage. I'm looking for the best CD Ripper software that will allow me to rip the files to FLAC format, include all the metadata, and grab the Album artwork. I'm currently using an iMac running MAC OS X Catalina.

Thanks in advance for any and all information that will allow me to do what I have described above.

Ag insider logo xs@2xcjlundgren

Recommend using dBpoweramp to rip CD’s as FLAC files with zero compression (i.e. as uncompressed FLAC files). dBpoweramp works with both MAC and PC. Been using it for years.

cjlundgren you are really going to enjoy the N20  I have a N10 myself 

sense you rip all your CDs into the Sony and does it have an external hard drive for backup that is how I transfer from my Bluesound to the N10

curious of what Dac you are using

Thanks for the recommendations on CD ripping. I’ll check this program out.

There is no provision on the Sony to backup or extract files from the unit as it lacks a digital output function. One of this truly excellent unit’s shortcomings.

Currently using a brand new PS Audio PerfectWave DAC D/A converter.

@cjlundgren 

Since Sony HAP-Z1ES is a network player, you should be able to copy files stored on HDD disk. Check out steps on backing up files on your computer / laptop.

https://helpguide.sony.net/ha/mt/v1/en/cover/level1_07.html

Once you have backed up files, it will be easier to copy files onto N20. 
 

Holy cow, you have answered my question, this couldn’t be easier!!!

I should have read read the manual first, or as they say, RTFM…read the f…..g manual!

Many thanks. I’m putting my order in for the N20 this week.

@cjlundgren

You’re welcome! I forgot to mention, if you’re not in a hurry to sell HAP-Z1ES, wait to create a back up as you should be able to ‘move’ files from HAP-Z1ES HDD directly onto N20. Once both players are connected to your network, you can move files between the two devices :-) Your dealer can walk you through steps or reach out to Aurender support. I also recommend following Samsung SSD drive for N20. I am using a pair of 2TB in my Aurender ACS100.

 

Thanks lalitk! I was thinking that process might work but just wasn’t sure.

I’ll try this procedure first before backing up the Sony to my iMac first. Hopefully it will work with no hick-ups. I’ll let you know what happens. I’ve got to get my order in for the N20 soon.

 

Thanks lalikt for the copy info.

I just hooked up my new N20 to my home network and was successful in copying the entire content of my Sony HAP-Z1ES to the N20. Success! I had to manually enter the IP address of the Sony, but other than that, the process was seamless. Thanks again for your help, I really appreciate the info.

You might give this a look. I used it for ripping my CD’s, took a bit to get thru the installation instructions sine they’re translated from German, after that, it was great.

https://www.exactaudiocopy.de/

Oops, looks like you're good to go.

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@cjlundgren 

You’re welcome! Enjoy your N20 and don’t forget to listen this amazing streamer in “Critical Listening Mode” for next level subtle but noticeable refinements. 

Will do! I’m still waiting for my AC power and AES/EBU cables to arrive so I can actually hook the N20 up to my system. Hopefully they arrive soon!