2. digital
  3. 138230-115924

CD ripping for the lower end.

I have a decent hifi system. I listen to CDs mostly. Thinking about going modestly digital just to test the waters. Right now I have an old iMac that will be my server. It is too old for all current ripping and cataloging software so it will probably be iTunes for ripping and playing. I will use Apple Remote on my cell phone which is a fairly capable remote at this level and works with the older version of iTunes on this old iMac.This is all probably commensurate with the entry level DAC I just got used off eBay, a Schiit Modi 2 Uber. I’ll get a Monoprice USB cable for it. I’ve got some high end RCA cables for DAC to Pre-amp.

If this works out okay and the SQ is tolerable I might step things up and use my MacBook Pro in which case I could get dBpoweramp for ripping and something to bypass iTunes for playback. Might even upgrade the DAC.

The first question I have is that for right now, what format should I rip the CDs to? Space is not a big concern. I’ve only got about 150 CDs and won’t rip them all. The primary consideration would be sound quality and future ’portability’ if I move up to higher end DAC and all that.

The second question is should I use my MacBook or new iMac to rip using dBpoweramp and then move the files to the old iMac?

Thanks for your help.

George
n80

Showing 1 response by kahlenz

kahlenz's avatar
kahlenz
285 posts
 
I RIP using iTunes to Apple Lossless (ALAC).  I use Apple Airport Express and Apple TV (and, recently, Google Chromecast Audio) devices with digital out direct to DAC.  I can run my system from my laptop, iPad, or phone.  The wireless digital signal is state of the art and the sound quality is dependent on your system (the better your system, the better the sound quality will be).

This is so easy and inexpensive it is hard for me to understand why so many seem unsatisfied with this solution.  The AEX is limited to 44.1 KHz/16.  For enthusiasts of hi-res audio, more expensive equipment will be needed.

Yes, I have experienced the difference in sound hi-res can make.  I think it is interesting, but not such an improvement of the listening experience that it justifies a priority position in my upgrade chain.  Before that, I think you will get a very pleasant "Bang-for-your-Buck" sensation if you upgrade to one of Schitt's "Multi-bit" DACS.
More to discover