2. pc-audio
  3. 1253374358

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

Showing 1 response by puerto

puerto
372 posts
 
My system is similar to hgeitsman's - I always use AIFF with good results. The external HD is a 2 TB mirror by Cavlary connected to the Mac Pro with firewire. The iTunes music leaves the computer via a 1 foot long Toslink to a signal converter that, in turn sends the signal to the pre/pro via SPDIF digital cable. I tried USB out of the Mac but if you go to Utilities (Midi set-up) you will find that the USB "out" gives far worse specs than the "built-in Output" of the Toslink connection. The USB option gives you only one default setting of 44,100 hz 2 Ch 16 bit whereas the "built-in Output" (using the headphone jack with a Toslink adapter) gives you at least three options to choose from up to 96,000 hz 2 Ch 24 bit. For me the best sound results are at the 48,000 hz 2 Ch 24 bit choice.

iTunes and their AIFF format has been remarkably good both for importing and playback.
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