Posted by NRen2k5 on 09/27/05 12:14

On 9/27/2005 7:38:38 AM, wrote:
>What format are the files in that come directly from the store-bought
>CD?

Well, it isn't a file-format, per se. The CD itself is a certain format, called CDDA (Compact Disc Digital Audio). Most people will call it "Audio CD".

It consists of one long stream of PCM (pulse code modulation) data with some error protection built in, plus a table of contents.

The closest file formats resembling CDDA would be PCM-WAV (on PC's) and PCM-AIFF (on Macs).

What you can do, though, is copy the CD's to MP3 format for storage, and then create CDDA discs from those MP3's when you get the urge. Most modern burning software allows you to do this. I think Nero even allows you to make CDDA discs from .OGG or .MPC files these days.

I suggest you use "CDex" or "Exact Audio Copy", along with the "LAME" MP3 encoder, to make your MP3's. I can guide you through setting them up, if you'd like.

>What format(s) will my basic car stereo recognize, and what programs
>will burn such CDs. I do have Nero 6 Ultra edition.

Your basic car stereo will recognize only CDDA. And it will probably have trouble with some brands or types of blanks discs. So if your car stereo refuses to read a disc, try another brand of blanks before blaming your burning software.

Nero will burn CDDA just fine. You need to create an "Audio CD" compilation.

- NRen2k5

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