Just wanted to post an update on all this – where I started and what I’ve come across since then.
Briefly, Windows Media Player and the Xitel Pro Hi Fi Link are good for what I’ve got, which is basically a sonically limited setup. To my virgin ears, it sounds good. But I’m thinking ahead to the day when I’ll invest in more substantial equipment (for I’ve already eaten of the apple). This will obviously require a better quality file format, like FLAC. I’ve learned EAC is a good, if not one of the best, methods of rendering a true copy of CD’s (whatever their limitations) to your hard drive.
However, Scott’s December 2005 review of the SqueezeBox 3 [http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/1205/slimdevices_squeezebox.htm] explains that PC based music can sound really reaaaaally good … with mods, of course. So much for the Xitel? The SB3 can even rival the performance of high end CD players.
But this does trigger a can of worms alert (I just thought that was really funny, bmed). EAC ain’t easy. My sense of satisfaction has been smashed with the prospect of not only learning about a new program (remember, I got into PC audio ‘cause I’m lazy) but having to re-rip like tons of discs. Plus, we’re talking mo’ money for the SB3 and a DAC. You’ll forgive me if I cry a little about the time and money factors.
To help fellow newbs learn about the operation of EAC, I’ve compiled a short list of tutorials:
http://users.fulladsl.be/spb2267/http://www.hydrogenaudio.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=29376&hl=eachttp://www.hydrogenaudio.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=29376&hl=eacFor help with track names and directories, look at this:
http://www.hydrogenaudio.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=29376&hl=eacUh, I just noticed those last 3 links all look the same, if they don’t work, let me know.
One caveat, I haven’t read this information yet, I’m still sifting through it all. I feel like a fourteen year old fumbling my way up the back of some girl’s blouse. Basically, I’m trying to describe the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of this thing, my experience, which appears to be a big part of what GAS is all about. On that note, let me reiterate many garcias to all of you for your help and patience. Oh, and I’ve learned the FAQ section does indeed answer many frequently asked questions. Young Jedi is learning.
