Rerurn to Romy the Cat's Site

LC >
Now suppose you want to copy a CD you own to play it into your car stereo system. CD copies done my means of a PC and a CD recorder aren't always identical to the original.
Since this is a very Frequently Asked Question would you please tell us something about this topic?

BK >
The key is the writer. Most of these software packages can produce perfect clones, unless you buy a package that allows you to change the levels or EQ. Those packages will always sound inferior. Don't get into that game if you're an audiophile. It's impossible to copy a CD, add EQ or adjust levels without making a sound inferior to the original. Only if you have access to the 24-bit unequalized master can you produce a CD that's better or equal to the original.

But if you are just interested in making exact copies (clones), here are the issues....
If you have a good "copying" package that produces perfect clones, then the writer must be of extremely good quality. The computer industry has made commodities out of cheap writers that can produce good data, but are terrible with audio.
The CD writer I use is the best in the world. It cost over $9000 (U.S.) and is no longer made. It has a very heavy duty base, strong laser, stable clock, stable motor, etc. Current writers can now be bought for $400-$500. Don't you think something was sacrificed in the process?
But as I said above, if you have a perfect D/A converter, then the quality of the writer is less important. Forget about the writers... you won't find a great one any more; it's economically impossible to get one made that pros will buy at that price. Instead, buy a D/A Converter and CD transport combination that makes the differences inaudible.

Rerurn to Romy the Cat's Site