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Looking for a bit of help.

I have some files that were wma. I burned them to CD and then ripped them to iTunes or in some cases into wma files again later on as back ups (this was years ago when bit rates were low and I was clueless). I can't seem to find a straight answer on this question. Burning the files to CD won't affect the quality, but when I ripped them to iTunes, even at the same bit rate as the original files, did I compromise the quality, vs the original lossy file? If so, will it be significant, or marginal?

Hey @chief. Yes as far as I'm aware, iTunes compresses files when adding to library, even wav and aiff. But the amount of compression depends on your import settings.
Ive found that I only see a noticeable diff importing from CD if it's as an .mp3. I tend to always import from disc in aiff format (still compressed by iTunes, but far less noticably so to my ears...)

@chief it also depends on your cd burn speed, that can compromise significantly. Also when I import into iTunes I go full lossless. You can then convert to high compressed versions like MP3 and acc etc if you need to.

BurningTapes wrote:@chief it also depends on your cd burn speed, that can compromise significantly. Also when I import into iTunes I go full lossless. You can then convert to high compressed versions like MP3 and acc etc if you need to.

What is the "full lossless" format you are referring to, BurningTapes? I've struggled with these formats myself since the 90's. I like to use flac or aiff, but I also struggle with storage space as well as compatibility with players, etc.

@mateo if importing from a cd you need 16 bit 44.1 KHz, there is an apple lossless preset in iTunes that will do this. (Located in preferences). Other than that aiff or WAV at 16bit 44.1 will do the same but may possibly not allow other metadata such as a thumbnail picture to be added.

Burning, do you ever have issues with ALAC compatibility on non Apple devices?

Mateo I don't recall any issues, but in general it's all Mac round these parts.

BurningTapes wrote:Mateo I don't recall any issues, but in general it's all Mac round these parts.

Fair enough, BT. Thanks for the replies.