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Going to rip 2000 cds. Which software?

At 63 years old I've decided it's finally time to make the move to a digital library.  I've spent hours and hours on this forum reading about servers, streamers, music servers, nas systems and modded Mac Minis.  I'm more than confused.  I'm pretty much ready to just buy a new transport and be done with it. 

But.... I play "cuts."  I hardly ever play an entire record or cd and would like the ability to choose what's playing from the couch.

I know that the first step is ripping cds.  I have a couple of questions;

1.  Which software should I use?  I am concerned about speed and indexing.  I'm a jazzhead and have quite a few recordings by the same artists that have recorded multiple versions of the same tune.  I want to make sure they are indexed properly.  I would also like a program that doesn't take all day to make a copy.

2.  I can use either Mac or PC.  I would prefer Mac but would use a PC if it is more future proof.  I have a Macbook Air and a PC laptop and both have dual 2 terrabyte external drives.

3. I would also consider a Music Server with a nas rig.

If I do a music server with nas I'd like to keep the price around $2000.

Thanks to all of you.

--Bob


jzzmusician

Showing 2 responses by bassdude

bassdude
194 posts
 
I use dBpoweramp CD Ripper on my HP Pavilion Notebook PC's.  It works well, has all the "bells and whistles," and is one of the highest rated applications for ripping CD's to files.  

You can choose any file format, but I use FLAC, because it's typically recommended, and is compatible with most servers and players - the sound is identical to WAV files, as is ALAC.   I chose these applications not only because they were widely recommended, but also because they work well on my HP Notebook - I can sit and watch the "playoffs" while I rip my CD's - very handy.

I store the files on a 1 TB USB drive, which connects to my various music servers (Bryston and W4S).  All very reasonably priced, or free, and very practical.   

I'd choose something, which will function well on the type of technology you already have - PC, or Mac - and... applications that are widely recommended and free.  No point in blowing the budget on buying new technology, because other's favor it (Mac... or, PC for that matter).  
bassdude
194 posts
 
Oh yes... I would not use any "computer" as a music server - they're not desiged for that purpose and will give you inferior sound (too much electronic interference and noise).  Get a real music server from an audio company that specializes in them (Bryston, W4S, or any of the many others) - same for the DAC.  
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