high quality audio playback cd/dvd-rom drives avail?

[michaelj0]

first of all - thanks for the MCE setup guide. it saved me a LOT of hassle when setting up my media centre and it works GREAT!

My cheap and nasty cd/DVD-rw drive has died. Is there such a thing as a cd/DVD drive that is geared torwards high quality audio playback? I know it is not going to be as good as a dedicated standalone HIFI player, but something close would be nice as the current one is total rubbish when compared to my 6yo pioneer standalone player.

Secondly, if the cd/dvd player is not the weakest link, then what else can I do to improve the audio quality. - currently using onboard audio on a fairly high end M/B.

thanks!

[krypto]

I have wondered the same thing.

As far as I can tell the key items are:

1. CD/DVD drive - because the data stream is digital the main criteria is minimum errors when reading the disc and minimal/high quality error correction. There are reviews available with this info. Great DVD or Blueray does not = great CD.

2. Audio - If using analogue out for music then there is a huge difference between the best onboard sound and a dedicated sound card. I have switched form Realtek 889a onboard which is rated very highly, to dedicated Auzentech sound card. There is a world of difference in sound quality and also interference/feedback from onboard components is substantially reduced.

[nikko1974]

Krypto...

So you're using the Auzentech via analogue outs? And you also used to have your onboard via analogue? Ever use SPDIF out on the onboard?

If so, how did this compare to the analogue on the Auzentech?

OP should run a search by 'soundcard' - is an age old discussion in here about whether its worth using a dedicated soundcard.

Also if the OP is ripping their CDs to other formats and is serious about their music I suggest using EAC - setting it up so your drive offset is put in and also using FLAC.

Once you read up about EAC that'll all make sense - best audio ripper out - period.

If you must go lossy - use Lame in a high VBR.....or the better but less accepted OGG.

Sorry if you know all this....... :-)