[brianmaysguitar]

Hello,

I am looking to purchase an MP3 player to use to replace my CD collection (was stolen). I would like to be able to rip CDs to a hard drive, transfer existing files to a hard drive, and also perhaps purchase from iTunes or a like source. Then I would like to be able to load these files to an MP3 player.

What I would like to know is if my plan is feasible and what product(s) you would recommend. If my plan is not feasible, what alternative would you suggest. Ultimately, I want to be able to capture music from a variety of sources onto a hard drive. I then want to be able to transfer these files to an MP3 player for use in the car, gym etc. . .

I am interested in any compatibility issues I might experience and what additional accessories will be needed. I have tried to include any needed info, if more is needed, please ask.

I have a Dell laptop running Windows XP.

 

[DoubleHelix]

I don't see how purchasing an MP3 player will do anything to replace a stolen CD collection. You're going to have to re-purchase all the CDs or buy all the digital copies online regardless of whether or not your purchase any kind of digital music player.

 

[brianmaysguitar]

I know I am going to have to collect music again. I am just saying that I am considering collecting the music on a hard drive rather than the physical discs. I am trying to assess the convenience/hassle ratio between storing music this way and collecting the actual discs again.

Initially it seems that it will simplify things and aleviate some storage concerns I always experienced with a large number of CDs. The problem is that I am not very well versed in this technology and am looking for some information related to what I can expect.

 

[DoubleHelix]

Not all music is available for download, so you might have to buy at least some CDs. And depending on how many songs you want, it would be cheaper to buy a CD than to purchase each song separately for ~$1 a piece. You'll also need a method to back up the files you download. You could burn them to CDs or DVDs as data. You'll fit more files on the disks that way. Don't rely on the hard drive and the MP3 player as your only storage methods.

Some downloaded music files are encrypted and will only play on certain players (not iPods). If you purchase protected music, you'll need to back up the licenses for these songs as well, and read the licensing agreement since some files can only be burned or transferred a few times.

As for accessories, that depends on what you want and what player you buy. Do you want superior headphones? They can cost up to $300. Do you want compatibility with an existing stereo system or the ability to connect it to your car or a home speaker set?

 

[brianmaysguitar]

DoubleHelix,

This is the kind of info I am looking for. My wife is being told by friends how easy it is to go out and get all the music you want.

Another question: you mentioned some encryptions that limit the number of times music can be transfered or recorded, does this include CDs purchased new?

Thanks for all your help so far.

Scott

 

[DoubleHelix]

I haven't purchased a CD in a long time. One of the last ones I purchased didn't allow me to rip it into MP3s at all. The ones you can rip don't have any limitations. Just don't use Windows Media Player, or if you do, turn off the feature that requires licensing.

 

[JohnWill]

I've ripped all my CD's to 256kbit MP3 files, and I rarely dig out the CD's.