Hydrogenaudio Knowledgebase - User contributions [en]

EAC Options (Legacy)

2010-04-18T20:20:39Z

Exec:

The '''EAC options dialog''' (shortcut: F9) offers several options for configuring [[EAC]] in general without focusing on drive or compression settings.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 5''

=Extraction=
[[Image:EAC_options_Extraction.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Extraction''' tab]]
This tab includes settings for the extraction of audio CDs.

: '''Fill up missing offset samples with silence'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''
In the case the drive is not capable of overreading into the leadin/leadout or overreading is disabled in the [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]], it is possible that some samples will be missing in the resulting [[WAV]] files. Note that only the first or last track of a CD is affected, depending on the drive having a negative or positive read offset. With this option enabled, these missing (offset) samples are filled with silence. This way, the correct length of the affected WAV files is maintained to get as close to the according original CD tracks as possible. But there is another reason why this option should be left enabled: if disabled, [[AccurateRip]] will not try to verify any tracks ripped. So when AccurateRip should be used, it is essential that this setting is enabled.

: '''No use of null samples for CRC calculations'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, null samples (silence) of a track will not be counted for CRC checksums. It has no effect on AccurateRip checksums. When this option is enabled and a track has silence at the beginning/end, this could lead to the same CRC checksums, even with different (or even wrong) drive offset values (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]). In general, this option should be disabled to ensure compatibility with other programs such as [[dBpoweramp]].

: '''Synchronize between tracks'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When ripping adjacent tracks of a CD and this option is enabled, EAC synchronizes between these tracks. This is important to avoid pops or gaps between tracks, so this option should be enabled.

: '''Delete leading and trailing silent blocks'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

If a track contains one or more complete (588-sample) blocks of silence at the beginning and/or the end, EAC deletes them when this option is enabled. If you're only interested in the non-silent audio data, this can be useful to enable, but this will produce WAV files which are not identical to the complete, original tracks. Enabling this option will prevent the use of [[AccurateRip]] to see if your rips match other people's. If your goal is to make exact copies of tracks or entire CDs, silence and all, then you should leave this option disabled.

This option only applies to entire blocks which are silent, so even when it's enabled, it may leave some silent samples on the ends of blocks which contain non-silence. The wave editor's silence trimming function will remove all leading and/or trailing silent samples, so it's more precise than this option.

: '''Skip track extraction on read or sync errors'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will skip the extraction of the current track if a read or synchronisation error occurs. If there is a read/sync error during extraction, the rip can not be guaranteed to be accurate anymore. This way, you have to decide what is more important for you: If you think that a possibly inaccurate rip is better than no rip at all, then you can leave this option disabled.

On the other hand, if an accurate rip is most important, then this option may be enabled so that EAC skips the track when the first read/sync error occurs. When this happens, the first thing to try is to clean the CD and give it another try. When this does not work either, the only solution would be to get another (scratch free) copy of the CD and try the extraction with this one.

Because EAC reads every frame multiple times to find consistent data, it is still possible that a rip is accurate even though EAC reports read errors. This is because in ''Secure mode'' EAC rereads every frame 16 times and treats a frame as "correct" when 8 reads got the same data (for more details on this, see the ''Error recovery quality'' option further below). It is possible no 8 reads got the same data, so EAC will report a read error, although the most consistent data (e.g. only 6 rereads match) may be correct. Even if the data EAC keeps isn't correct, sometimes the errors will be so minor that they don't result in audible artifacts. If you leave this option disabled, then "suspicious" positions where errors occurred will be listed in the ripping summary and log file. You can listen to these positions in the ripped audio to see if you can hear any artifacts.

: '''Skip track extraction after duration longer than ''X'' times realtime'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Due to EAC's advanced reading features, the reading procedure can last very long, especially on scatched CDs (in extreme cases this can last several hours). When this option is enabled and the ripping process takes longer than ''X'' times realtime, the affected track is skipped. It is recommended to leave this option disabled because it is likely that EAC can rip such a track, even if this takes a long time.

''X'' is a multiple of the track durations. For example, if you enable this option and set ''X'' to 4, it means you want EAC to abort the extraction of a track if the extraction has already taken more than 4 times the duration of that track. Thus, the extraction of a 2-minute track would be aborted after 8 minutes, and the extraction of a 5-minute track would be aborted after 20 minutes.

: '''After each X mins of extraction, cool down the drive for Y mins'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

The extraction of scratched CDs/tracks can last very long. This could possibly stress the drive used for extraction because of a lot of movement of the laser unit. So the whole procedure could also heat up the drive. This may decrease the reading abilities of this drive temporarily. So when you notice that your ripping drive gets unusually hot during difficult and long extraction processes, then it may be a good idea to enable this option. Otherwise you should leave this option disabled, because this will possibly lead to longer extraction times.

: '''Lock drive tray during extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC makes sure that the CD tray is not opened accidentally while ripping. Otherwise this will always result in an aborted extraction process, so leave this option enabled.

: '''Extraction and compression priority'''
:: ''(Default: Normal, '''Recommended: High''')''

This determines the process priority, which correlates with how much time your CPU will devote to extracting audio and (if so configured) running an external compressor during the extraction. Setting this option to ''high'' could result in slightly faster ripping, but if you are multitasking, your other applications won't get as much CPU time and might seem "choppy". So if you plan to use other programs during ripping, leave this option as it is (''normal''), or even set it to ''low'' if you find they still need more CPU. Otherwise you can set it to ''high''. What's right for you will depend on the capabilities of your computer and what other applications you're running.

: '''Error recovery quality'''
:: ''(Default: Medium, '''Recommended: High/Medium''')''

When an error is detected after reading a frame, [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/ EAC re-reads the frame] 16 times in an attempt to get at least 8 identical results. The error recovery quality setting determines the maximum number of times EAC will do the 16 re-reads:
* Low = one batch of 16 re-reads
* Medium = up to three batches of 16 re-reads (16, 24, or 48, total)
* High = up to five batches of 16 re-reads (16, 24, 48, 64, or 80, total)
For each batch of 16 re-reads, there's a row of red error correction "lights" in the extraction status window. If no batch of 16 re-reads produced 8 identical results, EAC considers whatever data it got to be "suspicious" rather than correct. EAC continues reading the entire batch of 16, even if it has already obtained 8 identical reads.

Changing this option to ''high'' lets EAC do more re-reads of bad frames. This could lead to a better error correction, but it also increases the chance that errors slip through undetected. This is because EAC will assume that a frame was read correctly if there were eight matching reads (of 16) on that frame. If there is a consistent error, EAC is not able to recognize this. So to increase the chance that no errors go unreported, this setting could be left at ''medium''.

Because of the way EAC behaves, there's no clear recommendation. You have to choose between better chance of detecting errors (''medium''), or chance of better error correction (''high''). The ''low'' setting will provide the best error detection but the worst error correction, so it's not recommended unless you're also choosing to skip track extraction on read or sync errors.

=General=
[[Image:EAC_options_General.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''General''' tab]]
In this tab, general EAC options are included. These do not affect the quality or the accuracy of the results produced by EAC. So on most options there is no clear recommendation possible. Just adjust these options as you need them.

: '''Use alternate CD play routines'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is only important for playing an audio CD using EAC. If it is enabled, EAC sends the audio data to the soundcard digitally, so no cable between the drive and the soundcard is needed. Otherwise, when this option is disabled, only the cable between drive and soundcard is used. Therefore, if such a cable is not installed and this option gets disabled, you will not be able to play a CD using EAC at all.

: '''Disable 'CD Autostart' for audio and data CDs while EAC running'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, the autostart for all drives is disabled while EAC is running. That means that no popups or media players are started automatically which could disturb EAC while ripping.

: '''On unknown CDs'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When a CD unknown to EAC is inserted in the drive and this setting is enabled, EAC can take the following actions:
* '''automatically access online freedb database''': EAC tries to find CD information in the [[freedb]] online database automatically. For this option to work, an e-mail address has to be specified in the [[EAC freedb/Database Options|freedb/Database Options]].
* '''open CD information dialog''': With this option enabled, a pop up is presented to the user where the CD information can be inserted manually.
It doesn't matter what setting you use; it's your choice. If you leave it disabled, you can always enter data manually right in the main window, or get disc info from freedb via a menu selection or keyboard shortcut (Alt-G).

: '''Display times using frames'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option just affects how times are displayed in the main window. A track's start or length will use the format H:MM:SS.##, where ## depends on how this option is set. If you use frames, then the last two digits are an exact number of frames, in a range of 00 to 74, because there are 75 frames per second. Otherwise, the last two digits are an approximate number of hundredths of seconds, in a range of 00 to 99. Time information in frames is generally more native to CDs, whereas the display of hundredths of seconds is likely to be rounded and not really exact. Therefore, it's recommended to enable this setting so that the times are displayed in frames.

: '''Ask before overwriting files'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

EAC will always ask if existing files should be overwritten. To be sure that no important files are overwritten, this option should be left enabled.

: '''Correct bug of wrong filename order in Windows multiple file dialog'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

The Windows file selection box sometimes has a strange behavior to exchange the first and last track when multiple files are selected. Leave this option enabled to make sure EAC automatically corrects the file order.

: '''Show status dialog after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Enabling this setting lets EAC show a status dialog after extraction. Because this dialog can give you some important information and the opportunity to hear & attempt repairs of glitches in tracks that didn't rip cleanly, you should leave this option enabled.

: '''Beep after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If enabled, EAC will beep (PC speaker) when extraction finished. When you do not want to sit in front of your PC while ripping, this option may come in handy.

: '''Eject CD after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will eject the CD automatically when the extraction finished. When you move away from your PC while ripping, it may be a good idea to leave this option disabled.

: '''When using the power down feature'''

This setting controls what should happen if you tick the power down feature in the extraction dialog. Two options are available:
* '''power down computer''' ''(Default: enabled)'': The computer is shut down after extraction has finished.
* '''restart computer''': The computer gets restarted after extraction.

: '''wait for external compressors'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option specifies if the shutdown or restart process should wait for any active external compressors when the power down feature in the extraction dialog is ticked. You should always leave this option enabled, because otherwise any external compressor can not finish its work before the shutdown/restart process.

: '''EAC language selection'''

This option controls the language settings of EAC. If there is a language setting available which equals the language of the operating system, this language is automatically selected at the first start of EAC.

=Tools=
[[Image:EAC_options_Tools.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Tools''' tab]]
Here the generation of [[Cue_sheet|CUE sheets]], playlists and log files is configured. There are also settings available affecting the behaviour of an external compressor.

For more information on EAC and CUE sheets, see [[EAC_and_Cue_Sheets|EAC and CUE sheets]].

: '''Retrieve UPC/ISRC codes in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When generating CUE sheets for a CD and this option is enabled, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code UPC] (Universal Product Code = barcode) and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc ISRC] (International Standard Recording Code) codes are extracted from the CD and added to the CUE file. It can be quite time-consuming extracting this information from a CD, and some CDs do not contain such information at all. But to collect as much information as possible from the CD, such as for archiving, this option should be enabled.

Note that this feature of EAC is reported not to work correctly with some drives. If you plan to let EAC create CUE sheets with UPC/ISRC, you should test this feature with your drive. Just open a generated CUE sheet with a text reader (e.g. Notepad) and check the information stated.

: '''Use CD-Text information in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If your drive supports CD-text, you should leave this option enabled. This will add TITLE and PERFORMER tags to the generated CUE sheet.

: '''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC will automatically create an .m3u playlist file which contains all selected tracks for this extraction. This comes in handy if you use your PC as primary source where most media players can use these playlist files.

: '''Write m3u playlist with extended information'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is greyed out until you enable the option ''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'' (see above). If enabled, EAC adds extended information (length, title and more) to the playlist file. All additional information are added as comments. If your media player can not handle these comments correctly, you should disable this option, otherwise leave it enabled.

: '''Automatically write status report after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC automatically writes a log file after extraction in the same directory as the extracted files. To be able to comprehend the extraction process of a certain CD, it may be a good idea to save these log files. However, even if this option is disabled, it is still possible to save a log file from the status dialog after extraction. Of course, then the corresponding option also has to be enabled in the ''General'' tab (''Show status dialog after extraction'').

: '''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this setting enabled, EAC starts an external compressor as soon as the first track was extracted and therefore the extraction and compressing processes are running simultaneously. Of course, this could lead to a time saving, but also can lead to some problems: it is more likely that errors during extraction/compressing occur on older PCs. So in general, you should leave this option disabled unless you have a dual/multi-core CPU.

: '''Use X simultaneous external compressor thread(s)'''
:: ''(Default: 1)''

This option is greyed out until the option above (''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'') is enabled. It controls the number of simultaneous external compressors used by EAC. The more compressors are used simultaneously, the more likely are the problems mentioned above with parallel extraction and compressing. Again, if you have a dual/multi-core CPU, it is fine to use this option.

: '''Do not open external compressor window'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC does not open an external compressor window. Because this way you are not able to see the status of the external compressor (and maybe error messages), this option should be left disabled.

: '''Submit drive features after detection (but ask for permission)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Leaving this option enabled, EAC will ask if it should submit to the AccurateRip database info about your drive's features (like read offset values) after these were detected, e.g. by the wizard. In order to help other people who are not able to determine their drive's features, it is recommended to enable this setting. You can cancel the transfer of any data anyway, because EAC will always ask you before sending any data.

: '''Activate beginner mode, disable all advanced features'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When in beginner mode, EAC disables & hides the following advanced features:
* In the Action menu:
** Catalog Selected Tracks (Alt+F / Alt+Shift+F) [rip previews instead of full tracks]
** Copy Selected Tracks Index-Based (Alt+X / Alt+Shift+X) [rip to separate files for each track index]
** Detect Gaps (F4) [find the 00-index portion, if any, of each track]
** Test Gaps On Silence [estimate how much of a track's 00-index portion is null bytes]
** Create CUE Sheet > Current Gap Settings
** Create CUE Sheet > Multiple WAV Files With Leftout Gaps (Alt+M)
** Create CUE Sheet > Multiple WAV Files With Corrected Gaps (Alt+O)
** Leave Out Gaps [disabled until gaps are detected]
** Append Gaps To Previous Track (default) [disabled until gaps are detected]
** Append Gaps To Next Track [disabled until gaps are detected]
* In the EAC Options:
** The entire Catalog tab (options affecting the Catalog Selected Tracks action)
* In the Drive Options:
** In the Offset / Speed tab:
*** Use read sample offset correction
*** Use combined read/write sample offset correction
*** Overread into Lead-In and Lead-Out [to get the very first or last sector(s) of audio when using offset correction]

Most of these features generally aren't needed, because:
* "Catalog" generation exists just to support an uncommon archiving strategy;
* Index-based rips are only useful for ripping the 00-index portions of tracks to separate files - e.g. for a CD with a hidden track you have to rewind from the beginning of the disc to hear, or for a CD with non-silent interludes during the "countdown to zero" time before certain tracks;
* Gaps will already be detected when that info is required;
* Gap removal isn't recommended because 00-index portions of tracks aren't always silent, and it can interfere with AccurateRip usage;
* The default CUE sheet formats work with EAC's CD burning features.

The offset correction options are useful, but will be automatically set for you and greyed out if AccurateRip is enabled and a "Key Disc" has been used for configuration of the offset. Since offset correction without an AccurateRip "Key Disc" needs to be manually configured, it is recommended that Beginner mode be left disabled.

=Normalize=
[[Image:EAC_options_Normalize.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Normalize''' tab]]
This tab contains all settings regarding normalization of extracted music files.

: '''Normalize'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Normalizing is the process to change the volume of a track to a given maximum loudness, and is usually used to try to get all tracks of a CD or compilation to approximately the same loudness level. EAC's normalizer determines loudness based on peak amplitude, which can be close, but doesn't precisely correlate with perceived loudness. See [[ReplayGain]] (a technology used outside of EAC) for a more sophisticated and accurate way of normalizing volume.

Of course, normalization results in the ripped track data not matching the original on the CD. If your goal is to make an exact copy, make sure that this option stays disabled.

: '''Normalize to X%'''
:: ''(Default: 98%)''

This option is greyed out until the above option (''Normalize'') is enabled and represents the level of normalization. 100% would be maximum loudness, but to avoid clipping, you should set it a few percents lower (e.g. 98%).

: '''But only if peak level is smaller than X% or greater than Y%'''
:: ''(Default: 85%/99%)''

With this option you can select which tracks will be normalized. All tracks which are out of the range (smaller than X, or greater than Y) are normalized, all others will not be changed.

=Filename=
[[Image:EAC_options_Filename.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Filename''' tab]]
The resulting file names and directory structures can be configured in this tab.

: '''Naming scheme'''

A naming scheme for the resulting files can be specified here. There are many placeholders stated by the option dialog which can be used to build up a naming/directory scheme (for a directory structure, just use "\", as known from the windows explorer). The only limitation is that no absolute file paths (e.g. "C:\Music\%T") can be constructed. The reason is that when starting the extraction of a disc, EAC will either ask by a dialog box where the resulting files will be stored, or will use the predefined directory (depends on what option is enabled as ''Standard directory for extraction'' in the ''Directories'' tab). The directory stated in this dialog defines the absolute path. By putting together this path and the naming scheme stated in this tab, the concrete filenames will be generated.

: '''Use various artist naming scheme'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled and the ''Various Artists'' option box is ticked (in the EAC main window), the naming scheme stated below is used. If you want different naming schemes for one/various artist CDs, then you should enable this setting. The placeholders are the same as stated above (''Naming scheme'').

: '''Replace spaces by underscores'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Enabling this option will EAC let replace spaces in filenames by underscores.

=Catalog=
[[Image:EAC_options_Catalog.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Catalog''' tab]]
Catalog options which are applied when creating catalog samples (''Action'' -> ''Catalog Selected Tracks'') can be configured here. With this function, EAC can produce short samples of each track of a disc.

: '''Catalog file length (in seconds)'''

Defines the length of each catalog sample track in seconds.

: '''Catalog start position in a track (in seconds)'''

Specifies the start position of the catalog sample in a track in seconds. As many music titles are not very significant from the beginning of a track, it may be a good idea to let the catalog samples start somewhere in the middle of a track.

: '''Fade in length (in seconds)'''

If you want that the catalog sample tracks are faded in, enter a value greater than 0.

: '''Fade out length (in seconds)'''

The same as stated above (''Fade in length (in seconds)''), but concerning fade out.

=Directories=
[[Image:EAC_options_Directories.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Directories''' tab]]
The directory where the extracted music files will be placed can be configured here.

: '''Standard directory for extraction'''

This option decides whether the user is asked where to save the resulting files every time an extraction is started, or if a standard directory should be used.

* '''Ask every time (default showing last used directory)''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Any time an extraction starts, a dialog box appears asking for the directory to be used. This directory will be saved and used as default the next time this dialog box appears.
* '''Use this directory''': When always extracting in the same directory anyway, there is no need of the dialog box stated above. In this case, a predefined directory can be specified here.

=Write=
[[Image:EAC_options_Write.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Write''' tab]]
Contains all settings for writing audio CDs with EAC.

: '''Upper all characters (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

If this option is enabled, all characters contained in the CD-text are transformed to upper case. On some CD players, this may look a little better than text in upper-/lower case.

: '''Include artist in the CD-Text track entry (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some CD players will only show the track information of the CD-text. In such a case, the artist information will not be shown. If your CD player acts this way, you should enable this option so that the artist is swapped over into the track information. As an example "Bohemian Rhapsody" will become "Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody".

: '''Disable copy protection flag on adding audio files to the layout editor by default'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When enabled, the copy protection flag will be disabled by default for all added tracks in the write layout editor. Because you can still disable the copy protection flag in the write layout editor when needed (''Layout'' -> ''Edit selected indices...'' -> untick the ''Copy protected'' checkbox), it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use CDRDAO for writing in the EAC layout editor'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When writing CDs with EAC, there are two possibilities: On the one hand, EAC can start an external application called [[CDRDAO]] to write the CD. The general advantage of CDRDAO is the compatibility with many (and even older) CD-R drives. On the other hand, EAC can use its internal writing routines. These are said wo be a bit more stable (as they are internal), but also do not support that many drives.

Since version 0.99 prebeta 4, EAC comes with an installer which lets the user choose if CDRDAO should be installed or not. When it is not installed, this setting will be greyed out and EAC's internal writing routines will be used in any case. But even if CDRDAO support was installed, you should try to disable this option first and use EAC's internal writing routines. In most cases this will work properly. Only if you encounter problems with this setting, try to use CDRDAO.

For more information on CDRDAO, see the [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage].

=Interface=
[[Image:EAC_options_Interface.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Interface''' tab]]
In this tab, the interface used for the communication between EAC and the CD drive can be confuigured.

: '''Use of SCSI interface'''
:: ''('''Recommended: Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''' (Win NT/2000/XP/Vista) / '''Installed external ASPI interface''' (Win 95/98/98SE/Me))''

For the communication with the drive, EAC can use different interfaces. First, there is the ''Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''. This is the native interface which comes with every Windows since Windows NT and is sometimes called [[SPTI]] (SCSI Pass-Through Interface). As the name implies, this is the native interface for direct communication with the drive and despite of the name, this interface is also used for non-SCSI peripherals (IDE/ATAPI, USB, Firewire, etc.). Another interface which can be used is [[ASPI]] (Advanced SCSI Programming Interface). This is not a completely different kind of interface, but only an additional layer above SPTI. Thus ASPI only maps the communication commands onto the native interface (SPTI).

If you use Windows NT or newer Windows operating systems, it is recommended that you first try the ''Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''. The reason is that any addition layer (like ASPI) on top of SPTI will increase the likelihood of errors. Only if the native interface does not work (e.g. EAC is not able to recognize your drive), then try to install an external ASPI interface and use this interface instead.

When using an older version of Windows than Windows NT, then an ASPI interface should already be installed and it is recommended to use the option ''Installed external ASPI interface''.

When you have to install an ASPI interface on your system because SPTI does not work (on Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista) or you want to use another ASPI driver (on Windows 95/98/98SE/Me), then you can do the following: The ASPI driver always recommended in conjunction with EAC is the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI Ahead Nero ASPI Driver]. Download the DLL (winaspi32.dll) and copy it into the EAC directory. Then start EAC and a choose the new option (''Installed external ASPI interface'') from this option tab.

Another (but not recommended) ASPI driver is the external ASAPI interface from VOB software. For this option to be available, you have to install the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI ASAPI interface from VOB software] first.

Note that all changes made in this option tab require a restart of EAC to take effect.

=External links=
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/ Exact Audio Copy: Extraction Technology]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code Wikipedia: Universal Product Code]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc Wikipedia: International Standard Recording Code]
* [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi Wikipedia: ASPI]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

File:EAC drive options Writer.png

2008-10-01T17:41:53Z

Exec: EAC drive options, Writer tab (recommended settings)

EAC drive options, Writer tab (recommended settings)

Exact Audio Copy

2008-07-20T13:03:31Z

Exec:

{{featured}}
{{Software Infobox
| name = Exact Audio Copy
| screenshot = [[Image:EAC_screenshot.png|250px|EAC screenshot]]
| caption = popular secure ripper with C2 error correction
| maintainer = Andre Wiethoff
| stable_release = 0.95b4
| preview_release =
| operating_system = Windows, Linux/BSD (Wine Emulation)
| use = Digital Audio Extraction
| license = Free, Cardware
| website = [http://www.exactaudiocopy.org EAC website]
}}

'''Exact Audio Copy''' ('''EAC''' for short) is a free software that can be used to extract tracks from an Audio CD to your computer's hard disk. What makes EAC special compared to other rippers is the fact that it is capable of reading audio CDs almost perfectly.
EAC uses various methods for extracting audio data. EAC can also invoke externally installed encoders, thereby making it possible to simultaneously rip and encode audio data to the format of your choice.

== Features of Exact Audio Copy ==
* Usage of the Windows 95 and Windows NT ASPI Interface, so both SCSI and ATAPI CD-ROM drives are supported
* Hidden sector synchronization (jitter correction)
* Secure, fast and burst extraction methods selectable. Fast extraction should run at the same speed as other grabbers, but is probably not exact anymore. Burst mode just grabs the audio data without any synchronization.
* Read error and complete loss of sync detection and correction in secure modes, as far as possible
* Output of time positions of all non-exact corrections and listen to these positions
* Copy of ranges of music data, not only tracks
* Automatic Speed reduction on errors and fallback afterwards
* Normalization of extracted audio
* Usage of the Windows Audio Compression Manager (ACM Codecs) for direct compression e.g. to MP3 waves
* Support for the BladeEnc DLL that is usable like an ACM Codec for online MP3 compression
* Support of external MP3, VQF, RA and AAC encoders for automatic compression after extraction
* Batch compression and decompression of/to WAV files
* Compression offset support for exact compression/decompression
* Detection of pre-track gaps
* Detection of silence in pre-track gaps
* Automatic creation of CUE sheets for CDRWin, including all gaps, indices, track attributes, UPC and ISRC
* CD player functionality and prelistening to selected ranges
* Automatic detection of drive features, whether a drive has an accurate stream and/or does caching
* Sample Offsets for drives with no accurate streams, including the option of filling up missing samples with silence
* Option for synchronizing tracks for non-accurate stream drives
* Filename editing with local and remote CDDB database and cdplayer.ini support and more features like ID3 tagging
* Browse and edit local database
* Local CDDB support
* Record and Loop Record functions for recording from LP, radio, etc.
* Automatic rename of MP3 files according to their ID3 tag
* Catalog extraction function
* Multisession (CD-Extra) support
* CD-Text support
* CD-Write support for some drives
* ID3 Tag editor with drag and drop possibility from track listing and database
* Glitch removal after extraction
* Small WAV editor with the following functionality: delete, trim, normalize, pad, glitch removal, pop detection, interpolation of ranges, noise reduction, fade in/out, undo (and more)
* Program is Cardware, so feel free to copy

== How it works ==
=== Extraction technology ===
In secure mode, this program reads every audio sector at least twice. That is one reason why the program is so slow. But by using this technique non-identical sectors are detected. If an error occurs (read or sync error), the program keeps on reading this sector, until eight of 16 retries are identical, but at maximum one, three or five times (according to the error recovery quality) these 16 retries are read. So, in the worst case, bad sectors are read up to 82 times! But this will help the program to obtain best result by comparing all of the retries. If it is not sure that the stream is correct (at least it can be said at approx. 99.5%) the program will tell the user where the (possible) read error occurred. The program also tries to adjust the jitter artefacts that occur on the first block of a track, so that each extraction should be exactly the same. On drives found to have the ''accurate stream'' feature, this is guaranteed. Of course, this is a little bit more complex, especially with some CD drives which have caching. When these drives cache audio data, every sector read will be read from cache and is identical. I initially implemented two ways of dealing with the caching problem. First there is an extra option for resetting the cache for use the the old secure mode (the one being kept for compatibility reasons). In the current beta version, the cache will still be reset by resetting the drive completely. You might imagine that this would slow down the reading process very badly.

That is why it was implemented three new read modes in version 0.85beta. One really fast mode (up to half of maximum speed) is only for non-caching, accurate stream CD-ROM drives. The second one could be used for caching, accurate stream drives and the last one will work with drives that don't have accurate streams, or do caching. The last two will be much slower, when no read errors occur it will usually something around a third to a fourth of the drives maximum speed.
For testing, it was used a Plextor 14/32 drive that does no caching and a Teac R56S-600 drive that does caching. Furthermore the Plextor 14/32 supports the ''accurate stream'' feature, so it produces no jitter artefacts on any stream.

This program is really damn slow in secure mode in comparison with other grabbers, but the program checks every sector over and over to get the correct data with high certainty. If you don't like this feature of EAC and prefer fast copies instead of secure copies, you should use the fast or burst extraction option in the options menu. But of course in fast mode, the program will no longer be able to find read errors. Only if a read error occurs in a sector synchronization area, will a sync error will still be displayed. Fast mode is sector synchronized with 2 blocks of 23 as synchronization blocks. Burst copy is even worse, no synchronization is done, enabling extraction at maximum speed of the drive. No error checking of any kind can be performed. If the stream ever breaks, it will tell the user in the status report by showing up suspicious positions. Of course this is only heuristic; there needn't be any errors on that positions; moreover there could be errors that are not found at all.
A new option for selecting the error recovery quality will determine how often these blocks of 16 reads will be done before giving up and working with the results obtained so far. For bad CDs, low error recovery quality will be fastest, but high recover quality should give best results.

=== Gap technology ===
In the new versions of EAC it is possible to detect pre-track gaps. These are the pauses between two tracks. Usually they are two seconds long and a CD player will display a negative time during this pause. By enabling the option ''Detect Pre-Track Gaps'' it will be possible to detect all gap-lengths by reading the sub-channel information. Because this information is not stored on the CD directly retrievable, EAC has to search for the position a track ends. This search is quite fast, but it still takes on average a second per track. That's why I made it possible to disable it in the options. Besides that option you can choose to add the gaps to the previous track nevertheless. Otherwise you can choose either to append the gap to the correct track or to leave it out . A benefit of performing the detection and getting the gap times is the selection of a range to copy. There the correct times will be displayed. One last word on this topic: Because these pre-track gaps are found by testing positions, it is possible that it will not be 100% exact. But in most cases it will be correct.

=== Automatic feature detection technology ===
From version 0.8 beta on it is possible to autodetect CD-ROM drive features. For each drive the program builds a separate drive options page. On this option page this function can be called.
There are two different features that will be checked by EAC: First if the stream is accurate and second, if the drive caches audio data. Even if the drive has a cache (drive specifications), it does not automatically mean that the drive uses the cache for audio extractions.
The test for the accurate stream feature should be always correct, but testing for cache will give some problems with drives that extract audio very slowly (under 4× speed). If results are uncertain (given e.g. two different results on different tests), you should assume that the drive does caching. The new secure mode for non-accurate and/or caching drives should work for all drives. The other new read modes are only a bit faster. If testing for accurate stream only sometimes gives a negative result, then you could nevertheless try to use the accurate secure mode. From version 0.8 beta on it is possible to autodetect CD-ROM drive features. For each drive the program builds a separate drive options page. On this option page this function can be called.

=== Track synchronization technology ===
Usually CD audio extraction programs will extract one track after another. This could cause some problems on CD-ROM drives which are not accurate, when using a CD which has no gaps. When this option is enabled in the EAC options, EAC will synchronize a track with a preceding track if there is no silence at the track junction, so track transitions will be free from jitter artefacts (e.g. on live recordings).

=== Offset technology ===
''Sample Offset'' is another new feature of EAC, it will help to always get the same WAVs compared to a different reader and to prevent generation losses. Nearly all drives can not position the head correctly. That means if the program tells the drive to read block 10000 it will probably read data somewhere in block 9998 instead. But this is not visible to the reading program, it won't know if it is really the data it wanted. Usually the head will be set always to a fixed offset before or after the correct read position. So it is possible to detect this offset once and use it for all CDs coming afterwards. To find out the offset of any drive the offset has to be calculated relative to an absolute offset (reference offset).

To implement this detection for all drives some bytes from common CDs (reference CDs) are used. These are the reference each CD-ROM drive has to compare with. Of course it was implemented only a limited selection of CDs that can be used to detect this offset. Sometimes there are different versions (releases) of the same CD, but only the same press like the one that was used will work. Furthermore, drives that have jitter are unable to position their heads correctly. So you should activate the secure or fast extraction method and moreover if your drive does caching, activate no-caching emulation. The ''Searching Track Start'' algorithm tries to find the correct start position even if jitter occurs. But this is not always possible, mainly if the drive jitters too much. But it can be shown that nearly 80% of the reads will get the same results. A drive's characteristic offset can be found automatically from the CD from on the list of reference CDs. Because of the mentioned jitter error the value given back is also not 100% sure. You should start the test several times and remember to activate emulate no-caching if necessary. Then you should get one value that occurs more often than other values. '''You should use this test on two different CDs at least! Both tests should give back the same value!'''
As different models of common CD-R writer usually do not add the same offset on writing, it seems that also big CD manufactures also do not always press the same offset on their CDs. So it was determined the most common offset of pressed CDs and integrated it into the offset detection routines.
Please help us measure more reference CDs. If you have a Plextor 14/32 32× CD-ROM drive, we know the offset. So all you have to do is run some popular disks from your own collection through it with a utility you could download here and send us the output.

== Exact Audio Copy guides ==
You can begin configuring EAC by starting with the Drive Configuration followed by the Gap Settings and finally, the Encoder Options. Remember to use only an original, factory-pressed Audio CD for configuring EAC. Please do not use, CD-Rs, CD-RWs, bootlegs or any such discs. Also use a non copy-protected disc which carries the familiar “Compact Disc-Digital Audio” logo.

=== General guides ===
* [[EAC Configuration Wizard]]
* [[EAC configuration]]
* [[EAC Drive Configuration]]
* EAC [[Gap settings]]

=== Compression guides ===
* [[EAC and FLAC]]
* [[EAC and Lame]]
* [[EAC and Monkeys Audio]]
* [[EAC and Musepack]]
* [[EAC and Ogg Vorbis]]
* [[EAC and TAK]]
* [[EAC and WavPack]]

== See also ==
* [[EAC CUE Sheets]] ASCII formats explained
* [[EAC Vs CDex SecureMode | EAC secure mode versus CDex full paranoia]] (by Pio2001)
* [[REACT]] 2 integration for running EAC scripts

== External links ==
* [http://www.rjamorim.com/rrw/eac.html Historical versions of EAC] at ReallyRareWares
* [http://www.digital-inn.de/forum271/ EAC forums]

[[Category:CD Rippers]]

Exact Audio Copy

2008-07-20T12:57:11Z

Exec: Removed coasterfactory link

{{featured}}
{{Software Infobox
| name = Exact Audio Copy
| screenshot = [[Image:EAC_screenshot.png|250px|EAC screenshot]]
| caption = popular secure ripper with C2 error correction
| maintainer = Andre Wiethoff
| stable_release = 0.95b4
| preview_release =
| operating_system = Windows, Linux/BSD (Wine Emulation)
| use = Digital Audio Extraction
| license = Free, Cardware
| website = [http://www.exactaudiocopy.org EAC website]
}}

'''Exact Audio Copy''' ('''EAC''' for short) is a free software that can be used to extract tracks from an Audio CD to your computer's hard disk. What makes EAC special compared to other rippers is the fact that it is capable of reading audio CDs almost perfectly.
EAC uses various methods for extracting audio data. EAC can also invoke externally installed encoders, thereby making it possible to simultaneously rip and encode audio data to the format of your choice.

== Features of Exact Audio Copy ==
* Usage of the Windows 95 and Windows NT ASPI Interface, so both SCSI and ATAPI CD-ROM drives are supported
* Hidden sector synchronization (jitter correction)
* Secure, fast and burst extraction methods selectable. Fast extraction should run at the same speed as other grabbers, but is probably not exact anymore. Burst mode just grabs the audio data without any synchronization.
* Read error and complete loss of sync detection and correction in secure modes, as far as possible
* Output of time positions of all non-exact corrections and listen to these positions
* Copy of ranges of music data, not only tracks
* Automatic Speed reduction on errors and fallback afterwards
* Normalization of extracted audio
* Usage of the Windows Audio Compression Manager (ACM Codecs) for direct compression e.g. to MP3 waves
* Support for the BladeEnc DLL that is usable like an ACM Codec for online MP3 compression
* Support of external MP3, VQF, RA and AAC encoders for automatic compression after extraction
* Batch compression and decompression of/to WAV files
* Compression offset support for exact compression/decompression
* Detection of pre-track gaps
* Detection of silence in pre-track gaps
* Automatic creation of CUE sheets for CDRWin, including all gaps, indices, track attributes, UPC and ISRC
* CD player functionality and prelistening to selected ranges
* Automatic detection of drive features, whether a drive has an accurate stream and/or does caching
* Sample Offsets for drives with no accurate streams, including the option of filling up missing samples with silence
* Option for synchronizing tracks for non-accurate stream drives
* Filename editing with local and remote CDDB database and cdplayer.ini support and more features like ID3 tagging
* Browse and edit local database
* Local CDDB support
* Record and Loop Record functions for recording from LP, radio, etc.
* Automatic rename of MP3 files according to their ID3 tag
* Catalog extraction function
* Multisession (CD-Extra) support
* CD-Text support
* CD-Write support for some drives
* ID3 Tag editor with drag and drop possibility from track listing and database
* Glitch removal after extraction
* Small WAV editor with the following functionality: delete, trim, normalize, pad, glitch removal, pop detection, interpolation of ranges, noise reduction, fade in/out, undo (and more)
* Program is Cardware, so feel free to copy

== How it works ==
=== Extraction technology ===
In secure mode, this program reads every audio sector at least twice. That is one reason why the program is so slow. But by using this technique non-identical sectors are detected. If an error occurs (read or sync error), the program keeps on reading this sector, until eight of 16 retries are identical, but at maximum one, three or five times (according to the error recovery quality) these 16 retries are read. So, in the worst case, bad sectors are read up to 82 times! But this will help the program to obtain best result by comparing all of the retries. If it is not sure that the stream is correct (at least it can be said at approx. 99.5%) the program will tell the user where the (possible) read error occurred. The program also tries to adjust the jitter artefacts that occur on the first block of a track, so that each extraction should be exactly the same. On drives found to have the ''accurate stream'' feature, this is guaranteed. Of course, this is a little bit more complex, especially with some CD drives which have caching. When these drives cache audio data, every sector read will be read from cache and is identical. I initially implemented two ways of dealing with the caching problem. First there is an extra option for resetting the cache for use the the old secure mode (the one being kept for compatibility reasons). In the current beta version, the cache will still be reset by resetting the drive completely. You might imagine that this would slow down the reading process very badly.

That is why it was implemented three new read modes in version 0.85beta. One really fast mode (up to half of maximum speed) is only for non-caching, accurate stream CD-ROM drives. The second one could be used for caching, accurate stream drives and the last one will work with drives that don't have accurate streams, or do caching. The last two will be much slower, when no read errors occur it will usually something around a third to a fourth of the drives maximum speed.
For testing, it was used a Plextor 14/32 drive that does no caching and a Teac R56S-600 drive that does caching. Furthermore the Plextor 14/32 supports the ''accurate stream'' feature, so it produces no jitter artefacts on any stream.

This program is really damn slow in secure mode in comparison with other grabbers, but the program checks every sector over and over to get the correct data with high certainty. If you don't like this feature of EAC and prefer fast copies instead of secure copies, you should use the fast or burst extraction option in the options menu. But of course in fast mode, the program will no longer be able to find read errors. Only if a read error occurs in a sector synchronization area, will a sync error will still be displayed. Fast mode is sector synchronized with 2 blocks of 23 as synchronization blocks. Burst copy is even worse, no synchronization is done, enabling extraction at maximum speed of the drive. No error checking of any kind can be performed. If the stream ever breaks, it will tell the user in the status report by showing up suspicious positions. Of course this is only heuristic; there needn't be any errors on that positions; moreover there could be errors that are not found at all.
A new option for selecting the error recovery quality will determine how often these blocks of 16 reads will be done before giving up and working with the results obtained so far. For bad CDs, low error recovery quality will be fastest, but high recover quality should give best results.

=== Gap technology ===
In the new versions of EAC it is possible to detect pre-track gaps. These are the pauses between two tracks. Usually they are two seconds long and a CD player will display a negative time during this pause. By enabling the option ''Detect Pre-Track Gaps'' it will be possible to detect all gap-lengths by reading the sub-channel information. Because this information is not stored on the CD directly retrievable, EAC has to search for the position a track ends. This search is quite fast, but it still takes on average a second per track. That's why I made it possible to disable it in the options. Besides that option you can choose to add the gaps to the previous track nevertheless. Otherwise you can choose either to append the gap to the correct track or to leave it out . A benefit of performing the detection and getting the gap times is the selection of a range to copy. There the correct times will be displayed. One last word on this topic: Because these pre-track gaps are found by testing positions, it is possible that it will not be 100% exact. But in most cases it will be correct.

=== Automatic feature detection technology ===
From version 0.8 beta on it is possible to autodetect CD-ROM drive features. For each drive the program builds a separate drive options page. On this option page this function can be called.
There are two different features that will be checked by EAC: First if the stream is accurate and second, if the drive caches audio data. Even if the drive has a cache (drive specifications), it does not automatically mean that the drive uses the cache for audio extractions.
The test for the accurate stream feature should be always correct, but testing for cache will give some problems with drives that extract audio very slowly (under 4× speed). If results are uncertain (given e.g. two different results on different tests), you should assume that the drive does caching. The new secure mode for non-accurate and/or caching drives should work for all drives. The other new read modes are only a bit faster. If testing for accurate stream only sometimes gives a negative result, then you could nevertheless try to use the accurate secure mode. From version 0.8 beta on it is possible to autodetect CD-ROM drive features. For each drive the program builds a separate drive options page. On this option page this function can be called.

=== Track synchronization technology ===
Usually CD audio extraction programs will extract one track after another. This could cause some problems on CD-ROM drives which are not accurate, when using a CD which has no gaps. When this option is enabled in the EAC options, EAC will synchronize a track with a preceding track if there is no silence at the track junction, so track transitions will be free from jitter artefacts (e.g. on live recordings).

=== Offset technology ===
''Sample Offset'' is another new feature of EAC, it will help to always get the same WAVs compared to a different reader and to prevent generation losses. Nearly all drives can not position the head correctly. That means if the program tells the drive to read block 10000 it will probably read data somewhere in block 9998 instead. But this is not visible to the reading program, it won't know if it is really the data it wanted. Usually the head will be set always to a fixed offset before or after the correct read position. So it is possible to detect this offset once and use it for all CDs coming afterwards. To find out the offset of any drive the offset has to be calculated relative to an absolute offset (reference offset).

To implement this detection for all drives some bytes from common CDs (reference CDs) are used. These are the reference each CD-ROM drive has to compare with. Of course it was implemented only a limited selection of CDs that can be used to detect this offset. Sometimes there are different versions (releases) of the same CD, but only the same press like the one that was used will work. Furthermore, drives that have jitter are unable to position their heads correctly. So you should activate the secure or fast extraction method and moreover if your drive does caching, activate no-caching emulation. The ''Searching Track Start'' algorithm tries to find the correct start position even if jitter occurs. But this is not always possible, mainly if the drive jitters too much. But it can be shown that nearly 80% of the reads will get the same results. A drive's characteristic offset can be found automatically from the CD from on the list of reference CDs. Because of the mentioned jitter error the value given back is also not 100% sure. You should start the test several times and remember to activate emulate no-caching if necessary. Then you should get one value that occurs more often than other values. '''You should use this test on two different CDs at least! Both tests should give back the same value!'''
As different models of common CD-R writer usually do not add the same offset on writing, it seems that also big CD manufactures also do not always press the same offset on their CDs. So it was determined the most common offset of pressed CDs and integrated it into the offset detection routines.
Please help us measure more reference CDs. If you have a Plextor 14/32 32× CD-ROM drive, we know the offset. So all you have to do is run some popular disks from your own collection through it with a utility you could download here and send us the output.

== Exact Audio Copy guides ==
You can begin configuring EAC by starting with the Drive Configuration followed by the Gap Settings and finally, the Encoder Options. Remember to use only an original, factory-pressed Audio CD for configuring EAC. Please do not use, CD-Rs, CD-RWs, bootlegs or any such discs. Also use a non copy-protected disc which carries the familiar “Compact Disc-Digital Audio” logo.

=== General guides ===
* [[EAC configuration]]
* [[EAC Drive Configuration]]
* EAC [[Gap settings]]

=== Compression guides ===
* [[EAC and FLAC]]
* [[EAC and Lame]]
* [[EAC and Monkeys Audio]]
* [[EAC and Musepack]]
* [[EAC and Ogg Vorbis]]
* [[EAC and TAK]]
* [[EAC and WavPack]]

== See also ==
* [[EAC CUE Sheets]] ASCII formats explained
* [[EAC Vs CDex SecureMode | EAC secure mode versus CDex full paranoia]] (by Pio2001)
* [[REACT]] 2 integration for running EAC scripts

== External links ==
* [http://www.rjamorim.com/rrw/eac.html Historical versions of EAC] at ReallyRareWares
* [http://www.digital-inn.de/forum271/ EAC forums]

[[Category:CD Rippers]]

EAC WAV Editor Options

2008-02-04T19:11:54Z

Exec: New page: The '''WAV editor options''' dialog in EAC (shortcut: ALT+Q) offers options regarding the WAV editor (used via ''Tools'' -> ''Process WAV...'') and the recording of WAV files (via ...

The '''WAV editor options''' dialog in [[EAC]] (shortcut: ALT+Q) offers options regarding the [[WAV]] editor (used via ''Tools'' -> ''Process WAV...'') and the recording of WAV files (via ''Tools'' -> ''Record WAV...''/''Loop Record WAV...'').

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 4''

__FORCETOC__

=Editor=
[[Image:EAC_WAV_editor_options_Editor.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''WAV editor options''', '''Editor''' tab]]
This tab includes settings for the WAV editor (access via ''Tools'' -> ''Process WAV...'').

: '''Follow display while playing audio'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This setting makes sure that the current playing position will always be visable in the WAV editor. This results in the display scrolling to accomplish this. The scrolling of the display will need some computation time. When therefore the sound playback gets choppy, try to disable this option.

: '''Create waveform profile on hard disk'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC creates a waveform profile when a WAV file is opened in the editor. Technically this is a *.wvp file which is stored in the same directory as the WAV file itself. Of course this will comsume more hard disk space (usually only a few KB per WAV file), but offers the advantage that a WAV file will be loaded much faster into the editor the next time it is opened.

: '''Double channels on mono playback'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If only one [[Mono|mono]] channel is played in the WAV editor and this option is enabled, the mono signal is also played in the other channel. This results in mono playback on both channels.

: '''Temporary data'''

While editing WAV files in the editor, there will be some temporary data. EAC has two possibilities to store this temporary data:
* '''Use main memory for storing temporary data''': All temporary data is stored in the main memory (RAM) of the PC. The advantage of using the the main memory is a better performance of functions which need temporary data, because generally RAM has faster access times and higher transfer rates. The drawback is that the whole file which gets processed has to fit into the memory. So when editing large files (or even a whole CD image) and this option is enabled, EAC's WAV editor will need a lot more memory. If the computer gets short of memory then, data will be swapped from memory to the Windows swap file which basically negates the advantage of this setting (because the hard disk is used again). So you only should enable this option if the PC used has a lot of memory.
* '''Use temporary file on hard disk''' ''(Default: enabled)'': With this option, all temporary data is stored on the hard disk. This will be a little slower than using the computer's main memory. The only requirement is that the hard disk has enough free space to hold all the temporary data. Note that when exiting the WAV editor, all the temporary data gets deleted. When selecting this option, EAC will use the ''Temp path'' given below for temporary data (default is ''C:\Documents and Settings\<user>\Local Settings\Temp\'').

: '''Use Undo'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When the undo function of the WAV editor should be available, this setting has to be enabled. Otherwise no editing steps can be undone in the WAV editor. When enabling this setting, the path where all temporary data will be stored for the undo function can be specified below (default is ''C:\Documents and Settings\<user>\Local Settings\Temp\'').

=Compare=
[[Image:EAC_WAV_editor_options_Compare.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''WAV editor options''', '''Compare''' tab]]
This tab offers only one option regarding comparison of WAV files (used with the function ''Tools'' -> ''Compare WAVs...'').

: '''Determine differences more exactly'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If this setting is enabled, EAC will do a more precisely comparison when WAV files are compared. The comparison will then be more precisely, but will take a longer time on the other hand.

=Record=
[[Image:EAC_WAV_editor_options_Record.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''WAV editor options''', '''Record''' tab]]
On this tab, all options regarding recording WAV files (with the function ''Tools'' -> ''Record WAV...''/''Loop Record WAV...'') can be found.

: '''Do not use dB level meter on recording'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When recording WAV files, usually a [[DB|dB]] level meter will be shown in the dialog window displaying the current dB level. This will produce some CPU usage while recording. Generally this option should be left disabled unless you experience problems (e.g. on slow computers and/or time critical recordings).

: '''Try to free memory before loop recording'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled and the function ''Tools'' -> ''Loop Record WAV...'' is used, EAC forces Windows to free some memory first. This is useful, especially when doing long recordings which need a lot of memory, so leave this option enabled.

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

File:EAC WAV editor options Record.png

2008-02-04T17:06:36Z

Exec: EAC WAV editor options, Record tab (recommended settings)

EAC WAV editor options, Record tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC WAV editor options Compare.png

2008-02-04T15:06:35Z

Exec: EAC WAV editor options, Compare tab (recommended settings)

EAC WAV editor options, Compare tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC WAV editor options Editor.png

2008-02-04T14:55:26Z

Exec: EAC WAV editor options, Editor tab (recommended settings)

EAC WAV editor options, Editor tab (recommended settings)

EAC freedb/Database Options (Legacy)

2008-01-31T22:37:39Z

Exec: Changes concerning EAC 0.99pb4

The '''freedb/Database options''' dialog in [[EAC]] (shortcut: F12) offers several options concerning [[freedb]].

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 4''

=freedb=
[[Image:EAC_freedb_Database_options_freedb.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''freedb/Database options''', '''freedb''' tab]]
This tab includes settings for accessing freedb.

: '''Your e-mail address'''

To be able to retrieve or submit data from/to freedb, you have to specify an e-mail address. Otherwise, EAC will only show an error dialog when trying to submit or retrieve data to/from freedb. This e-mail address will be used to inform you in case of errors during submissions. If these messages are not important for you, you can enter a fake e-mail address here and you will never receive e-mails from freedb.

: '''Freedb server'''

With this option the freedb server to be used can be specified. Before selecting a server, an up-to-date server list can be retrieved with the button ''Get active freedb server list'' below. In general, it is not important which server is used, because all freedb server are hosting the same content.

: '''Use Proxy Server for HTTP access'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

EAC uses HTTP for communication with a freedb server. When you want to use a proxy server, just enable this option and enter the proxy server's address and port below.

: '''Use authentication for Proxy Server'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

When using a proxy server for communication with freedb and this server requires authentication, you have to enable this option and specify your username and password in the text boxes below.

: '''On a connction error, retry query using a different server from the list'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When there is a connection error while communication with a freedb server (while submitting or retrieving data), EAC can try to use another server from the ''Freedb server list''.

=Local freedb=
[[Image:EAC_freedb_Database_options_Local_freedb.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''freedb/Database options''', '''Local freedb''' tab]]
This tab offers options to use a local freedb database.

: '''Use local freedb databse'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

When this option gets enabled, EAC supports storing freedb data on the local hard disk. Then CD information can be submitted to the local database by selecting ''Database'' -> ''Export CD Information To''/''Export Whole Database To'' -> ''Local freedb'' from EAC's menu. Only the actual disc information or the whole EAC database (contents of "CDDB.DAT" file in the root directory of EAC) is submitted respectively. The local freedb contents can be queried with ''Database'' -> ''Get CD Information From'' -> ''Local freedb''.

: '''Local freedb path'''

This setting specifies the absolute path of the local freedb files.

: '''Format options'''

EAC supports two different file formats for storing local freedb content:
* '''Windows freedb file format''' (''Default: enabled)'': This is a Windows-optimized file format with the advantage that a new file is not created for every entry in the database resulting in less waste of hard disk space. Unfortunately, this particular function does not seem to work properly in EAC. There is always a new file created for every CD entry.
* '''Unix freedb file format''': This is the native freedb file format which uses one file per CD entry. This results in many small files possibly wasting hard disk space (if file size is smaller than cluster size of the file system).

=Export=
[[Image:EAC_freedb_Database_options_Export.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''freedb/Database options''', '''Export''' tab]]
This tab only offers one option for the construction of database export lines.

: '''Construction of database export lines'''
:: ''(Default: %A;%N;%T;%L)''

This option only effects the functions ''Database'' -> ''Export CD Information To''/''Export Whole Database To'' -> ''DB Text File...'' and specifies which information is written to the exported database text files.

=External links=
* [http://www.freedb.org/ freedb]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC Compression Options (Legacy)

2008-01-31T22:32:04Z

Exec: Changes concerning EAC 0.99pb4

In the '''compression options dialog''' in [[EAC]] (shortcut: F11) all options can be found regarding the compression of music files. Here EAC's behavior when clicking on the ''MP3'' Button in the main window or items in the ''Action'' menu (and then starting a ''compressed'' action) are specified.

Note that many options are dependent on the codec or external compressor (encoder). So often no clear recommendation can be given. It is just important that you understand what these settings do and how they possibly change the behavior of EAC and/or the codec/external compressor.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 4''

=Waveform=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_Waveform.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''compression options''', '''Waveform''' tab]]
This tab offers settings to select a codec installed on your system and the appropriate options to compress [[WAV]] files. When you want to use an external compressor, then these options are rather unimportant (see the tab ''External Compression'').

Note that all options are greyed out here if ''Use external program for compression'' in the ''External Compression'' tab is ticked.

: '''Wave format'''

In this drop down box all codecs installed on your system are listed. When new codecs are installed which can compress WAV files, they should show up in this list. The codec to choose depends on what should be achieved with the compression (sample format, compression ratio, etc.).

: '''Sample format'''

With this option a sample format (sample rate, resolution, mono/stereo) can be chosen. Which options are available here depends on the codec selected at the ''Wave format'' option (e.g. some codecs only support 4 bit resolution). To keep the same sample format as a CD, ''44,100 kHz; 16 Bit'' has to be selected.

: '''Add ID3 tag'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Some formats (e.g. [[MP3]]) support [[ID3|ID3 tags]]. When this option is enabled, EAC will add these tags to the compressed files (only if the file format supports ID3 tags).

: '''Do not write WAV header to file'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

For playback of some file formats (e.g. MP3), Windows can use a codec designated for WAV playback. In this case, the file should have a WAV header according to the [http://www.sonicspot.com/guide/wavefiles.html WAV specification] (standard [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resource_Interchange_File_Format RIFF] (Resource Interchange File Format) file format structure). This way, it may be possible to play file formats with a program that normally can only read WAV files.

On the other hand, files which are not WAV files should usually not contain a WAV file header. So for other (non-WAV) files, this option should be enabled. Therefore a file extension for headerless files also has to be specified (see option below).

: '''File extension for header files'''
:: ''(Default: .raw)''

When the ''Do not write WAV header to file'' option is enabled, a file extension of the compressed files can be specified here (e.g. ''.mp3'' for MP3 files). If the above option is disabled, this setting gets greyed out automatically.

: '''Quality setting'''
:: ''(Default: High quality (slow), '''Recommended: High quality (slow)''')''

Some codecs support a quality setting to choose between a higher quality of the output files or faster encoding speed. If quality is the only matter, leave this option at the default, which is ''High quality (slow)''.

=External Compression=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_External_Compression.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC '''compression options''', '''External Compression''' tab]]
In this tab, all options for external compressors can be configured. As all settings are highly dependent on the particular compressor, most settings are only described here because often no clear recommendations can be given.

'''''General recommendation:''''' To avoid unwanted side effects and to be able to configure the encoding process in every detail, ''User Defined Encoder'' should be used as ''Parameter passing scheme'' and all options should be specified via the ''Additional command-line options'' only.

"Side effects" basically means that it is a little complex what options have which effect when another ''Parameter passing scheme'' is specified (e.g. some settings are ignored completely). These side effects are explained in the following parameters, but specifying ''User Defined Encoder'' and using the command-line options only is a lot more convenient.

There are also a few articles with details about how to configure EAC to use particular encoders:
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_FLAC EAC and FLAC]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Lame EAC and LAME]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Monkey%27s_Audio EAC and Monkey's Audio]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Musepack EAC and Musepack]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Ogg_Vorbis EAC and OGG Vorbis]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_WavPack EAC and WavPack]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_TAK EAC and TAK]

: '''Use external program for compression'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

To use an external compressor, this setting has to be enabled. Otherwise all the options in this tab are greyed out.

: '''Parameter passing scheme'''

EAC comes with a few presets concerning external compressors and the required parameter passing scheme which can be selected with this option (e.g. the ''Bit rate'' box will show all available options after a particular compressor was chosen here). But in general, the capabilities of EAC in passing parameters to external compressors are limited. In order to overcome some of these limitations you can use the ''Additional command-line options'' for additional parameter passing. The usual approach is setting the ''Parameter passing scheme'' to ''User Defined Encoder'' and using the ''Additional command-line options'' to specify all the encoding options.

: '''Use file extension'''

When chosen the entry ''User Defined Encoder'' on the setting ''Parameter passing scheme'', a file extension has to be specified here. This should be the extension of the encoded file type (e.g. ".flac" when using a [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Flac FLAC] encoder).

: '''Program, including path, used for compression'''

The absolute path to the program used for compression. This may be an .exe or a .dll file (e.g. "C:\Program Files\LAME\lame.exe"). By clicking on the ''Browse...'' button, this path can be chosen by a file dialog.

: '''Additional command-line options'''

Here additional parameters for the external compressor can be specified.To configure the additional command-line options, you can use the following placeholders (taken from the [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/support/faq/ EAC FAQ]):

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! placeholder
! meaning
|-
| %s
| Source filename
|-
| %d
| Destination filename
|-
| %h...%h
| Text "..." only when ''High quality'' selected
|-
| %l...%l
| Text "..." only when ''Low quality'' selected
|-
| %c...%c
| Text "..." only when ''CRC checksum'' selected
|-
| %r
| Bitrate ("32".."320") as chosen in the ''Bit rate'' option
|-
| %a
| CD artist
|-
| %g
| CD title
|-
| %t
| Track title
|-
| %y
| Year
|-
| %n
| Track number
|-
| %m
| MP3 music genre
|-
| %o
| Original filename (without temporary renaming)
|-
| %e
| Comment (as selected in EAC)
|-
| %b
| CRC of extracted track
|-
| %f
| freedb ID
|-
| %x
| Number of tracks on album
|}

So an exemplary command-line could look like this ([[LAME]]):
<pre>-V 0 --vbr-new --ta "%a" --tt "%t" --tl "%g" --tg "%m" --ty "%y" --tn "%n" --tc "%e" %s %d</pre>

As you can see, the command-line options of LAME (e.g. <code>-V 0</code>, <code>--ta</code>, <code>--tt</code>, etc.) are used in conjunction with the EAC placeholders (e.g. <code>%a</code>, <code>%t</code>, etc.) to control LAME only by this command-line.

: '''Bit rate'''

What is shown in this drop-down box depends on the ''Parameter passing scheme'' selected and specifies the bit rate/quality settings of the external compressor. This setting is also used to calculate the approximate size of the compressed tracks shown in EAC's main window.

In the case that ''User Defined Encoder'' is selected as the ''Parameter passing scheme'' this setting does not have an effect unless the <code>%r</code> parameter is specified in the ''Additional command-line options''.

: '''Quality setting'''
:: ''(Default: High quality, '''Recommended: High quality''')''

Many encoders offer the choice between better quality or faster encoding speed. This option is designated to choose between these two settings, but the precise behavior depends on what is selected on the ''Parameter passing scheme'':

If ''User Defined Encoder'' is chosen, this option does not have an effect unless the <code>%h...%h</code> and <code>%l...%l</code> parameters are used in the ''Additional command-line options'' (see below). When any other ''Parameter passing scheme'' is used, this setting is reflected on the particular encoder. When using LAME for instance, ''High quality'' corresponds to the <code>-h</code> switch, whereas ''Low quality'' uses the <code>-f</code> switch (in this case, these switches specify the "Noise shaping and psycho acoustic algorithms", means choice between quality and encoding speed).
So when you opt for the best possible quality when using another ''Parameter passing scheme'' then ''User Defined Encoder'', make sure ''High quality'' is selected.

As already mentioned above, with this setting it is also possible to configure the ''Additional command-line option'' even further: With the placeholders <code>%h...%h</code> and <code>%l...%l</code> you can specify two different settings for the external compressor which can be controlled by this option. The following example (simplified) shows how to use this feature (again with LAME):

<pre>%h-V0%h%l-V5%l --vbr-new %s %d</pre>

In this case, if the ''High quality'' option is chosen, then then LAME will encode with <code>-V 0</code>, otherwise with <code>-V 5</code> when ''Low quality'' is selected.

: '''Delete WAV after compression'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If this setting is enabled, EAC automatically deletes the extracted WAV file after compression. If you do not need these files (of course the compressed files are kept) after extraction/compression, leave this option enabled.

: '''Use CRC check'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some encoders have the ability to store a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclic_redundancy_check CRC] checksum (cyclic redundancy check) in the resulting (compressed) file. This might be used then to check the consistency of this file during playback. But enabling this CRC check has two major drawbacks: First, this will add 16 bits (the CRC value) on every frame of the encoded file and will possibly increase the file size considerably. Second, many encoders do not support this feature very well because of calculating wrong CRC checksums. So usually players will simply ignore this information. This option also has no effect at all when selected ''User Defined Encoder'' at the ''Parameter passing scheme''. Thus having more disadvantages, it is generally recommended to disable this option regardless of the encoder used.

When ''User Defined Encoder'' is chosen, this setting allows additional parameters to take effect using the <code>%c...%c</code> placeholder, otherwise it has no effect.

: '''Add ID3 tag'''

When this option is enabled, EAC writes ID3 tags to the compressed files. Make sure only to use this setting with mp3 files. Formats such as flac, TAK, WavPack, Monkey's Audio and Ogg Vorbis were not intended to use ID3 tags and adding such tags may cause problems.

Another possibility to include ID3 tagging is to use the external compressor itself to tag the resulting files. This would be done via the ''Additional command-line options''. But note that when this option is enabled, these tagging instructions via command-line do not have any effect, because EAC just overrides the tags written by the encoder.

: '''Check for external programs return code'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this setting is enabled, EAC checks the return code of an external compressor. When the external compressor returns an error code (e.g. because of a wrong command-line parameter was used), EAC shows this error message in a dialog box. So it is recommended to enable this option to notice any errors the encoder returns.

=Offset=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_Offset.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC '''compression options''', '''Offset''' tab]]
This tab offers options regarding offset correction during encoding/decoding and the ID3 tag comment field.

Note: The offset mentioned here has nothing to do with a drive offset and therefore should not be mistaken.

: '''Use Offset Correction for encoding and decoding'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some encoders will have an offset when encoding. This means that at the beginning of a track they often add some silence, whereas a few samples could be missing at the end. When decoding again, this could result in some unwanted gaps. This options offers now the opportunity to correct this encoding/decoding offset so that the original file can be reconstructed (at least concerning correct beginning/end of a track; with [[Lossy|lossy]] formats the original file can not be reconstructed completely). The point behind this option is that is possible that there is such an offset between the codec which is used for encoding (the actual codec) and the other one used for decoding (default installed codec). An example would be using LAME for MP3 encoding and the Fraunhofer codec for decoding. In this case, this option would be useful.

So when you decode your encoded files and experience some unwanted gaps in the decoded files, then you should try to enable this option and configure it accordingly (see below). In all other cases, leave this option disabled (especially when you encode and decode with the same encoder anyway).

: '''Sample offset'''
:: ''(Default: 0)''

When enabling the option ''Use Offset Correction for encoding and decoding'', a sample offset has to be entered here. With a click on the button ''Detect Offset...'' the correct offset can be recognized automatically.

: '''Use LAME command-line encoder/decoder for decoding MP3 files'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

This option is usually greyed out. To make it available, a LAME executable (lame.exe) has to be placed in the EAC directory. This has to be done manually.

If this option is enabled then, LAME is used automatically to decode MP3 files (''Tools'' -> ''Decompress...''). This overrides EAC's behavior which uses the Fraunhofer codec for MP3 decoding by default.

: '''Construction of the ID3 tag comment field on extraction'''

When the option ''Add ID3 tag'' in the ''External Compression'' tab is enabled, this setting specifies what information should be stored in the comment field. When EAC is not used to tag compressed files and tagging is completely done via command-line parameters, this setting specifies the contents of the "%e" placeholder which can be used in the command-line then. The following options are available:

* '''Write "Track <tracknumber>" into ID3 tag comment field''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Tracknumbers are written into the comment fields.
* '''Write CRC checksums into ID3 tag comment field''': CRC checksums are written into the comment fields.
* '''Write freedb ID into ID3 tag comment field''': freedb IDs are written into the comment fields.
* '''Write following text into ID3 tag comment field''': A user defined text is written into the comment fields.

=ID3 Tag=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_ID3_Tag.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC '''compression options''', '''ID3 Tag''' tab]]
This tab offers some options regarding the ID3 tagging capabilities of EAC. Note that the option ''Add ID3 tag'' in the ''External Compression'' tab has to be enabled for all these settings to have an effect.

: '''Use ID3V1.1 tags instead of ID3V1.0 tags'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, ID3v1.1 tags are used instead of ID3v1.0 tags. The only difference between ID3v1.1 and ID3v1.0 is that the former can additionally store a track number. Because most players are capable of ID3v1.1 tags, it is recommended to enable this option.

: '''Additionally write ID3V2 tags, using a padding of X kB'''
:: ''(Default: enabled/4, '''Recommended: enabled/4''')''

With this option enabled, EAC writes ID3v2 (ID3v2.3) tags to the encoded files (in addition to the ID3v1 tags). Because ID3v2 tags have a lot advantages over ID3v1 tags (e.g. unicode support) and are supported by most players, it is recommended to enable this option.

As ID3v2 tags are usually placed in front of a file, there may be a problem with altering or adding tags once the file is written. If tags are added or existing tags are becoming bigger, the ID3 chunk in a file will need some more space. In the worst case, the whole audio file has to be rewritten, which may be time consuming. This is where padding comes into play. When using padding, some additional space is added to the file while encoding to store such added or growing tags. In this case, the file does not have to be rewrittten completely, only this additional padding space is used when tags are added or altered. This makes adding/altering tags a lot more convenient and faster. The only disadvantage of padding is that the encoded files are a little bigger. EAC suggests a padding size of 4 KB. This means that every encoded file will be 4 KB bigger in size compared to a file which does not use padding. So if it is likely that you change or add some tags after the file has been created, then you should leave this option at 4 KB (or fit it your needs). If saving space (e.g. for mobile usage) is more important for you, then you can set this setting to 0 KB.

: '''Use ID3V2.4.0 tags instead of ID3V2.3.0 tags'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

ID3v2.4 is the latest development of this standard and has a few advantages over ID3v2.3 (e.g. allows usage of UTF-8 encoding). But there seems to be a bug in EAC that no ID3v2.4 can be written. Actually, when this option is enabled, EAC does not write any ID3v2 tags at all (not even ID3v2.3). Therefore it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use track format xx/xx in ID3V2 tags (e.g. 01/16)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

ID3v1 is only able to store the track number itself (e.g. "05"). With ID3v2 it is possible to store also the number of total tracks (e.g. "05/15"). If you wish to keep this information with your files, leave this option enabled.

: '''Construction of filenames from ID3 tags'''
:: ''(Default: %T - %A)''

This option specifies how filenames are constructed from ID3 tags when using the rename feature of EAC (''Tools'' -> ''Rename From ID3 Tags...''). You can use placeholder to build up the filename.

=External links=
* [http://www.sonicspot.com/guide/wavefiles.html The Sonic Spot: Wave File Format]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resource_Interchange_File_Format Wikipedia: Resource Interchange File Format]
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/support/faq/ EAC FAQ (placeholders for command-line options)]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclic_redundancy_check Wikipedia: Cyclic redundancy check]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Id3 Wikipedia: ID3]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC Options (Legacy)

2008-01-31T22:28:05Z

Exec: /* Write */ more changes for EAC 0.99pb4

The '''EAC options dialog''' (shortcut: F9) offers several options for configuring [[EAC]] in general without focussing on drive or compression settings.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 4''

=Extraction=
[[Image:EAC_options_Extraction.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Extraction''' tab]]
This tab includes settings for the extraction of audio CDs.

: '''Fill up missing offset samples with silence'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''
In the case the drive is not capable of overreading into the leadin/leadout or overreading is disabled in the [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]], it is possible that some samples will be missing in the resulting [[WAV]] files. Note that only the first or last track of a CD is affected, depending on the drive having a negative or positive read offset. With this option enabled, these missing (offset) samples are filled with silence. This way, the correct length of the affected WAV files is maintained to get as close to the according original CD tracks as possible. But there is another reason why this option should be left enabled: if disabled, [[AccurateRip]] will not try to verify any tracks ripped. So when AccurateRip should be used, it is essential that this setting is enabled.

: '''No use of null samples for CRC calculations'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, null samples (silence) of a track will not be counted for CRC checksums. When this option is enabled and a track has silence at the beginning/end, this could lead to the same CRC checksums, even with different (or even wrong) drive offset values (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]). In general, this option should be disabled to ensure compatibility with other programs such as [[dBpoweramp]].

: '''Syncronize between tracks'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When ripping adjacent tracks of a CD and this option is enabled, EAC synchronizes between these tracks. This is important to avoid pops or gaps between tracks, so this option should be enabled.

: '''Delete leading and trailing silent blocks'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

If a track contains silence at the beginning and/or the end, EAC delets these silent blocks when this option is enabled. As this would possibly result in WAV files which are not identical to the original tracks, you should leave this option disabled.

: '''Skip track extraction on read or sync errors'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will skip the extraction of the current track if a read or synchronisation error occurs. If there is a read/sync error during extraction, the rip can not be guaranteed to be accurate anymore. This way, you have to decide what is more important for you: If you think that a not accurate rip is better than no rip at all, then you can leave this option disabled. Due to EAC's advanced reading features, it is possible that there are no audible artifacts. In such a case, you should check the log file where all suspicious positions are listed. Listen for yourself if you can hear any artifacts. If not, this may be ok for you.
On the other hand, if an accurate rip is most important, then this option may be enabled so that EAC skips the track when the first read/sync error occurs. When this happens, the first thing to try is to clean the CD and give it another try. When this does not work either, the only solution would be to get another (scratch free) copy of the CD and try the extraction with this one.

Because of EAC's reading strategy to read every frame multiple times to find consistent data, it is still possible that a rip is accurate even though EAC reports read errors. This is because in ''Secure mode'' EAC rereads every frame 16 times and treats a frame as "correct" when 8 reads got the same data (for more details on this, see the ''Error recovery quality'' option further below). Now it is possible no 8 reads got the same data, so EAC will report a read error, although the most consistent data (e.g. only 6 rereads match) may be correct.

: '''Skip track extraction after duration longer than X times realtime'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Due to EAC's advanced reading features, the reading procedure can last very long, especially on scatched CDs (in extreme cases this can last several hours). When this option is enabled and the ripping process takes longer than X times realtime, the affected track is skipped. It is recommended to leave this option disabled because it is likely that EAC can rip such a track even if this takes a long time.

: '''After each X mins of extraction, cool down the drive for Y mins'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

As already mentioned, the extraction of scatched CDs/tracks can last very long. This could possibly stress the drive used for extraction because of a lot of movement of the laser unit. So the whole procedure could also heat up the drive. This may decrease the reading abilities of this drive temporarily. So when you notice that your ripping drive gets unusually hot during difficult and long extraction processes, then it may be a good idea to enable this option. Otherwise you should leave this option disabled, because this will possibly lead to longer extraction times.

: '''Lock drive tray during extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC makes sure that the CD tray is not opened accidentally while ripping. Otherwise this will always result in an aborted extraction process, so leave this option enabled.

: '''Extractions and compression priority'''
:: ''(Default: Normal, '''Recommended: High''')''

With this setting the process priority of EAC and any external compressor during the extraction/compression is set. Setting this option to ''high'' could result in a little shorter ripping times. On the other hand, this could make other applications work "choppy". So if you plan to use other programs during ripping, leave this option as it is (''normal''), otherwise you can set it to ''high''.

: '''Error recovery quality'''
:: ''(Default: Medium, '''Recommended: High/Medium''')''

This setting specifies how many rereads will be done in a case of reading errors. Generally, if reading errors occur, EAC rereads these frames until eight out of 16 retries are identical ([http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/]). The ''Error recovery quality'' now specifies, how many of these 16 retires are done (''low''/''medium''/''high'': 1/3/5). A visual representation can be found in the extraction status window: the number of red bars shown for error correction.

So changing this option to ''high'' lets EAC read bad frames more often. This could lead to a better error correction, but also increases the chance that errors slip through undetcted. This is beacuse EAC will assume that a frame was read correctly if there were eight matching reads (of 16) on that frame. If there is a consistent error, EAC is not able to recognize this. So to increase the chance that no errors going unreported, this setting could be left at ''medium''.

Because of the way EAC behaves, there can not be given a clear recommendation. You have to choose between better chance of detecting errors (''medium''), or chance of better error correction (''high'').

=General=
[[Image:EAC_options_General.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''General''' tab]]
In this tab, general EAC options are included. These do not affect the quality or the accuracy of the results produced by EAC. So on most options there is no clear recommendation possible. Just adjust these options as you need them.

: '''Use alternate CD play routines'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is only important for playing an audio CD using EAC. If it is enabled, EAC sends the audio data to the soundcard digitally, so no cable between the drive and the soundcard is needed. Otherwise, when this option is disabled, only the cable between drive and soundcard is used. Therefore, if such a cable is not installed and this option gets disabled, you will not be able to play a CD using EAC at all.

: '''Disable 'CD Autostart' for audio and data CDs while EAC running'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, the autostart for all drives is disabled while EAC is running. That means that no popups or media players are started automatically which could disturb EAC while ripping.

: '''On unknown CDs'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When a CD unknown to EAC is inserted in the drive and this setting is enabled, EAC can take the following actions:
* '''automatically access online freedb database''': EAC tries to find CD information in the [[freedb]] online database automatically. For this option to work, an e-mail adress has to be specified in the [[EAC freedb/Database Options|freedb/Database Options]].
* '''open CD information dialog''': With this option enabled, a pop up is presented to the user where the CD information can be inserted manually.

: '''Display times using frames'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option decides about how times are displayed in the main window. When this option is disabled, 1/100 seconds are used. Enable this setting so that all times are displayed in frames (1 frame equals 1/75 seconds). Time information in frames is generally more native to CDs, whereas the display of 1/100 seconds is likely to be rounded and not really exact. So it is recommended to leave this option enabled.

: '''Ask before overwriting files'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

EAC will always ask if existing files should be overwritten. To be sure that no important files are overwritten, this option should be left enabled.

: '''Correct bug of wrong filename order in Windows multiple file dialog'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

The Windows file selection box sometimes has a strange behavior to exchange the first an last track when multiple files are selected. Leave this option enabled to make sure EAC automatically corrects the file order.

: '''Show status dialog after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Enabling this setting lets EAC show a status dialog after extraction. Because this dialog can give you some important information, you should leave this option enabled.

: '''Beep after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If enabled, EAC will beep (PC speaker) when extraction finished. When you do not want to sit in front of your PC while ripping, this option may come in handy.

: '''Eject CD after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will eject the CD automatically when the extraction finished. When you move away from your PC while ripping, it may be a good idea to leave this option disabled.

: '''When using the power down feature'''

This setting controls what should happen if you tick the power down feature in the extraction dialog. Two options are avaiable:
* '''power down computer''' ''(Default: enabled)'': The computer is shut down after extraction has finished.
* '''restart computer''': The computer gets restarted after extraction.

: '''wait for external compressors'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option specifies if the shutdown or restart process should wait for any active external compressors when the power down feature in the extraction dialog is ticked. You should always leave this option enabled, because otherwise any external compressor can not finish its work before the shutdown/restart process.

: '''EAC language selection'''

This option controls the language settings of EAC. If there is a language setting available which equals the language of the operating system, this language is automatically selected at the first start of EAC.

=Tools=
[[Image:EAC_options_Tools.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Tools''' tab]]
Here the generation of [[Cue_sheet|CUE sheets]], playlists and log files is configured. There are also settings available affecting the behaviour of an external compressor.

For more information on EAC and CUE sheets, see [[EAC_and_Cue_Sheets|EAC and CUE sheets]].

: '''Retrieve UPC/ISRC codes in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When generating CUE sheets for a CD and this option is enabled, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code UPC] (Universal Product Code = barcode) and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc ISRC] (International Standard Recording Code) codes are extracted from the CD and added to the CUE file. It can be quite time comsuming extracting these information from a CD and some CDs do not contain such information at all. But to collect as much information as possible from the CD, this option should be enabled (archiving purposes).

Note that this feature of EAC is reported not to work correctly with some drives. If you plan to let EAC create CUE sheets with UPC/ISRC, you should test this feature with your drive. Just open a generated CUE sheet with a text reader (e.g. Notepad) and check the information stated.

: '''Use CD-Text information in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If your drive supports CD-text, you should leave this option enabled. This will add TITLE and PERFORMER tags to the generated CUE sheet.

: '''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC will automatically create an .m3u playlist file which contains all selected tracks for this extraction. This comes in handy if you use your PC as primary source where most media players can use these playlist files.

: '''Write m3u playlist with extended information'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is greyed out until you enable the option ''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'' (see above). If enabled, EAC adds extended information (length, title and more) to the playlist file. All additional information are added as comments. If your media player can not handle these comments correctly, you should disable this option, otherwise leave it enabled.

: '''Automatically write status report after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC automatically writes a log file after extraction in the same directory as the extracted files. To be able to comprehend the extraction process of a certain CD, it may be a good idea to save these log files. However, even if this option is disabled, it is still possible to save a log file from the status dialog after extraction. Of course, then the corresponding option also has to be enabled in the ''General'' tab (''Show status dialog after extraction'').

: '''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this setting enabled, EAC starts an external compressor as soon as the first track was extracted and therefore the extraction and compressing processes are running simultaneously. Of course, this could lead to a time saving, but also can lead to some problems: it is more likely that errors during extraction/compressing occur on older PCs. So in general, you should leave this option disabled unless you have a dual/multi core CPU.

: '''Use X simultaneous external compressor thread(s)'''
:: ''(Default: 1)''

This option is greyed out until the option above (''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'') is enabled. It controls the number of simultaneous external compressors used by EAC. The more compressors are used simultaneously, the more likely are the problems mentioned above with parallel extraction and compressing. Again, if you have a dual/multi core CPU, it is fine to use this option.

: '''Do not open external compressor window'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC does not open an external compressor window. Because this way you are not able to see the status of the external compressor (and maybe error messages), this option should be left disbaled.

: '''Submit drive features after detection (but ask for permission)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Leving this option enabled, EAC will ask if it should submit the drive features (mostly offset values) after these were detected, e.g. by the wizard. In order to help other people who are not able to determine their drive's features, it is recommended to enable this setting. You can cancel the transfer of any data anyway, because EAC will always ask you before sending any data.

: '''Activate beginner mode, disable all advanced features'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When in beginner mode, EAC hides many options important for achieving the best possible results, so make sure that this option is disabled.

=Normalize=
[[Image:EAC_options_Normalize.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Normalize''' tab]]
This tab contains all settings regarding normalization of extracted music files.

: '''Normalize'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Normalizing is the process to change the volume of a track to a given maximum loudness and is mostly used to get all tracks of a CD or compilation to the same loundess level. Of course, this would change the original track. Because of this, make sure that this option stays disabled.

: '''Normalize to X%'''
:: ''(Default: 98%)''

This option is greyed out until the above option (''Normalize'') is enabled and represents the level of normalization. 100% would be maximum loudness, but to avoid clipping, you should set it a few percents lower (e.g. 98%).

: '''But only if peak level is smaller than X% or greater than Y%'''
:: ''(Default: 85%/99%)''

With this option you can select which tracks will be normalized. All tracks which are out of the range (smaller than X, or greater than Y) are normalized, all others will not be changed.

=Filename=
[[Image:EAC_options_Filename.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Filename''' tab]]
The resulting file names and directory structures can be configured in this tab.

: '''Naming scheme'''

A naming scheme for the resulting files can be specified here. There are many placeholders stated by the option dialog which can be used to build up a naming/directory scheme (for a directory structure, just use "\", as known from the windows explorer). The only limitation is that no absolute file paths (e.g. "C:\Music\%T") can be constructed. The reason is that when starting the extraction of a disc, EAC will either ask by a dialog box where the resulting files will be stored, or will use the predefined directory (depends on what option is enabled as ''Standard directory for extraction'' in the ''Directories'' tab). The directory stated in this dialog defines the absolute path. By putting together this path and the naming scheme stated in this tab, the concrete filenames will be generated.

: '''Use various artist naming scheme'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled and the ''Various Artists'' option box is ticked (in the EAC main window), the naming scheme stated below is used. If you want different naming schemes for one/various artist CDs, then you should enable this setting. The placeholders are the same as stated above (''Naming scheme'').

: '''Replace spaces by underscores'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Enabling this option will EAC let replace spaces in filenames by underscores.

=Catalog=
[[Image:EAC_options_Catalog.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Catalog''' tab]]
Catalog options which are applied when creating catalog samples (''Action'' -> ''Catalog Selected Tracks'') can be configured here. With this function, EAC can produce short samples of each track of a disc.

: '''Catalog file length (in seconds)'''

Defines the length of each catalog sample track in seconds.

: '''Catalog start position in a track (in seconds)'''

Specifies the start position of the catalog sample in a track in seconds. As many music titles are not very significant from the beginning of a track, it may be a good idea to let the catalog samples start somewhere in the middle of a track.

: '''Fade in length (in seconds)'''

If you want that the catalog sample tracks are faded in, enter a value greater than 0.

: '''Fade out length (in seconds)'''

The same as stated above (''Fade in length (in seconds)''), but concerning fade out.

=Directories=
[[Image:EAC_options_Directories.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Directories''' tab]]
The directory where the extracted music files will be placed can be configured here.

: '''Standard directory for extraction'''

This option decides whether the user is asked where to save the resulting files every time an extraction is started, or if a standard directory should be used.

* '''Ask every time (default showing last used directory)''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Any time an extraction starts, a dialog box appears asking for the directory to be used. This directory will be saved and used as default the next time this dialog box appears.
* '''Use this directory''': When always extracting in the same directory anyway, there is no need of the dialog box stated above. In this case, a predefined directory can be specified here.

=Write=
[[Image:EAC_options_Write.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Write''' tab]]
Contains all settings for writing audio CDs with EAC.

: '''Upper all characters (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

If this option is enabled, all characters contained in the CD-text are transformed to upper case. On some CD players, this may look a little better than text in upper-/lower case.

: '''Include artist in the CD-Text track entry (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some CD players will only show the track information of the CD-text. In such a case, the artist information will not be shown. If your CD player acts this way, you should enable this option so that the artist is swapped over into the track information. As an example "Bohemian Rhapsody" will become "Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody".

: '''Disable copy protection flag on adding audio files to the layout editor by default'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When enabled, the copy protection flag will be disabled by default for all added tracks in the write layout editor. Because you can still disable the copy protection flag in the write layout editor when needed (''Layout'' -> ''Edit selected indices...'' -> untick the ''Copy protected'' checkbox), it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use CDRDAO for writing in the EAC layout editor'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When writing CDs with EAC, there are two possibilities: On the one hand, EAC can start an external application called [[CDRDAO]] to write the CD. The general advantage of CDRDAO is the compatibility with many (and even older) CD-R drives. On the other hand, EAC can use its internal writing routines. These are said wo be a bit more stable (as they are internal), but also do not support that many drives.

Since version 0.99 prebeta 4, EAC comes with an installer which lets the user choose if CDRDAO should be installed or not. When it is not installed, this setting will be greyed out and EAC's internal writing routines will be used in any case. But even if CDRDAO support was installed, you should try to disable this option first and use EAC's internal writing routines. In most cases this will work properly. Only if you encounter problems with this setting, try to use CDRDAO.

For more information on CDRDAO, see the [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage].

=Interface=
[[Image:EAC_options_Interface.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Interface''' tab]]
In this tab, the interface used for the communication between EAC and the CD drive can be confuigured.

: '''Use of SCSI interface'''
:: ''('''Recommended: Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''' (Win NT/2000/XP/Vista) / '''Installed external ASPI interface''' (Win 95/98/98SE/Me))''

For the communication with the drive, EAC can use different interfaces. First, there is the ''Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''. This is the native interface which comes with every Windows since Windows NT and is sometimes called [[SPTI]] (SCSI Pass-Through Interface). As the name implies, this is the native interface for direct communication with the drive and despite of the name, this interface is also used for non-SCSI peripherals (IDE/ATAPI, USB, Firewire, etc.). Another interface which can be used is [[ASPI]] (Advanced SCSI Programming Interface). This is not a completely different kind of interface, but only an additional layer above SPTI. Thus ASPI only maps the communication commands onto the native interface (SPTI).

If you use Windows NT or newer Windows operating systems, it is recommended that you first try the ''Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''. The reason is that any addition layer (like ASPI) on top of SPTI will increase the likelihood of errors. Only if the native interface does not work (e.g. EAC is not able to recognize your drive), then try to install an external ASPI interface and use this interface instead.

When using an older version of Windows than Windows NT, then an ASPI interface should already be installed and it is recommended to use the option ''Installed external ASPI interface''.

When you have to install an ASPI interface on your system because SPTI does not work (on Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista) or you want to use another ASPI driver (on Windows 95/98/98SE/Me), then you can do the following: The ASPI driver always recommended in conjunction with EAC is the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI Ahead Nero ASPI Driver]. Download the DLL (winaspi32.dll) and copy it into the EAC directory. Then start EAC and a choose the new option (''Installed external ASPI interface'') from this option tab.

Another (but not recommended) ASPI driver is an external ASPI interface from VOB software. For this option to be available, you have to install the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI ASPI interface from VOB software] first.

Note that all changes made in this option tab require a restart of EAC to take effect.

=External links=
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/ Exact Audio Copy: Extraction Technology]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code Wikipedia: Universal Product Code]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc Wikipedia: International Standard Recording Code]
* [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi Wikipedia: ASPI]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC Options (Legacy)

2008-01-31T22:20:46Z

Exec: Changes concerning EAC 0.99pb4

The '''EAC options dialog''' (shortcut: F9) offers several options for configuring [[EAC]] in general without focussing on drive or compression settings.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 4''

=Extraction=
[[Image:EAC_options_Extraction.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Extraction''' tab]]
This tab includes settings for the extraction of audio CDs.

: '''Fill up missing offset samples with silence'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''
In the case the drive is not capable of overreading into the leadin/leadout or overreading is disabled in the [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]], it is possible that some samples will be missing in the resulting [[WAV]] files. Note that only the first or last track of a CD is affected, depending on the drive having a negative or positive read offset. With this option enabled, these missing (offset) samples are filled with silence. This way, the correct length of the affected WAV files is maintained to get as close to the according original CD tracks as possible. But there is another reason why this option should be left enabled: if disabled, [[AccurateRip]] will not try to verify any tracks ripped. So when AccurateRip should be used, it is essential that this setting is enabled.

: '''No use of null samples for CRC calculations'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, null samples (silence) of a track will not be counted for CRC checksums. When this option is enabled and a track has silence at the beginning/end, this could lead to the same CRC checksums, even with different (or even wrong) drive offset values (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]). In general, this option should be disabled to ensure compatibility with other programs such as [[dBpoweramp]].

: '''Syncronize between tracks'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When ripping adjacent tracks of a CD and this option is enabled, EAC synchronizes between these tracks. This is important to avoid pops or gaps between tracks, so this option should be enabled.

: '''Delete leading and trailing silent blocks'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

If a track contains silence at the beginning and/or the end, EAC delets these silent blocks when this option is enabled. As this would possibly result in WAV files which are not identical to the original tracks, you should leave this option disabled.

: '''Skip track extraction on read or sync errors'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will skip the extraction of the current track if a read or synchronisation error occurs. If there is a read/sync error during extraction, the rip can not be guaranteed to be accurate anymore. This way, you have to decide what is more important for you: If you think that a not accurate rip is better than no rip at all, then you can leave this option disabled. Due to EAC's advanced reading features, it is possible that there are no audible artifacts. In such a case, you should check the log file where all suspicious positions are listed. Listen for yourself if you can hear any artifacts. If not, this may be ok for you.
On the other hand, if an accurate rip is most important, then this option may be enabled so that EAC skips the track when the first read/sync error occurs. When this happens, the first thing to try is to clean the CD and give it another try. When this does not work either, the only solution would be to get another (scratch free) copy of the CD and try the extraction with this one.

Because of EAC's reading strategy to read every frame multiple times to find consistent data, it is still possible that a rip is accurate even though EAC reports read errors. This is because in ''Secure mode'' EAC rereads every frame 16 times and treats a frame as "correct" when 8 reads got the same data (for more details on this, see the ''Error recovery quality'' option further below). Now it is possible no 8 reads got the same data, so EAC will report a read error, although the most consistent data (e.g. only 6 rereads match) may be correct.

: '''Skip track extraction after duration longer than X times realtime'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Due to EAC's advanced reading features, the reading procedure can last very long, especially on scatched CDs (in extreme cases this can last several hours). When this option is enabled and the ripping process takes longer than X times realtime, the affected track is skipped. It is recommended to leave this option disabled because it is likely that EAC can rip such a track even if this takes a long time.

: '''After each X mins of extraction, cool down the drive for Y mins'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

As already mentioned, the extraction of scatched CDs/tracks can last very long. This could possibly stress the drive used for extraction because of a lot of movement of the laser unit. So the whole procedure could also heat up the drive. This may decrease the reading abilities of this drive temporarily. So when you notice that your ripping drive gets unusually hot during difficult and long extraction processes, then it may be a good idea to enable this option. Otherwise you should leave this option disabled, because this will possibly lead to longer extraction times.

: '''Lock drive tray during extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC makes sure that the CD tray is not opened accidentally while ripping. Otherwise this will always result in an aborted extraction process, so leave this option enabled.

: '''Extractions and compression priority'''
:: ''(Default: Normal, '''Recommended: High''')''

With this setting the process priority of EAC and any external compressor during the extraction/compression is set. Setting this option to ''high'' could result in a little shorter ripping times. On the other hand, this could make other applications work "choppy". So if you plan to use other programs during ripping, leave this option as it is (''normal''), otherwise you can set it to ''high''.

: '''Error recovery quality'''
:: ''(Default: Medium, '''Recommended: High/Medium''')''

This setting specifies how many rereads will be done in a case of reading errors. Generally, if reading errors occur, EAC rereads these frames until eight out of 16 retries are identical ([http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/]). The ''Error recovery quality'' now specifies, how many of these 16 retires are done (''low''/''medium''/''high'': 1/3/5). A visual representation can be found in the extraction status window: the number of red bars shown for error correction.

So changing this option to ''high'' lets EAC read bad frames more often. This could lead to a better error correction, but also increases the chance that errors slip through undetcted. This is beacuse EAC will assume that a frame was read correctly if there were eight matching reads (of 16) on that frame. If there is a consistent error, EAC is not able to recognize this. So to increase the chance that no errors going unreported, this setting could be left at ''medium''.

Because of the way EAC behaves, there can not be given a clear recommendation. You have to choose between better chance of detecting errors (''medium''), or chance of better error correction (''high'').

=General=
[[Image:EAC_options_General.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''General''' tab]]
In this tab, general EAC options are included. These do not affect the quality or the accuracy of the results produced by EAC. So on most options there is no clear recommendation possible. Just adjust these options as you need them.

: '''Use alternate CD play routines'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is only important for playing an audio CD using EAC. If it is enabled, EAC sends the audio data to the soundcard digitally, so no cable between the drive and the soundcard is needed. Otherwise, when this option is disabled, only the cable between drive and soundcard is used. Therefore, if such a cable is not installed and this option gets disabled, you will not be able to play a CD using EAC at all.

: '''Disable 'CD Autostart' for audio and data CDs while EAC running'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, the autostart for all drives is disabled while EAC is running. That means that no popups or media players are started automatically which could disturb EAC while ripping.

: '''On unknown CDs'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When a CD unknown to EAC is inserted in the drive and this setting is enabled, EAC can take the following actions:
* '''automatically access online freedb database''': EAC tries to find CD information in the [[freedb]] online database automatically. For this option to work, an e-mail adress has to be specified in the [[EAC freedb/Database Options|freedb/Database Options]].
* '''open CD information dialog''': With this option enabled, a pop up is presented to the user where the CD information can be inserted manually.

: '''Display times using frames'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option decides about how times are displayed in the main window. When this option is disabled, 1/100 seconds are used. Enable this setting so that all times are displayed in frames (1 frame equals 1/75 seconds). Time information in frames is generally more native to CDs, whereas the display of 1/100 seconds is likely to be rounded and not really exact. So it is recommended to leave this option enabled.

: '''Ask before overwriting files'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

EAC will always ask if existing files should be overwritten. To be sure that no important files are overwritten, this option should be left enabled.

: '''Correct bug of wrong filename order in Windows multiple file dialog'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

The Windows file selection box sometimes has a strange behavior to exchange the first an last track when multiple files are selected. Leave this option enabled to make sure EAC automatically corrects the file order.

: '''Show status dialog after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Enabling this setting lets EAC show a status dialog after extraction. Because this dialog can give you some important information, you should leave this option enabled.

: '''Beep after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If enabled, EAC will beep (PC speaker) when extraction finished. When you do not want to sit in front of your PC while ripping, this option may come in handy.

: '''Eject CD after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will eject the CD automatically when the extraction finished. When you move away from your PC while ripping, it may be a good idea to leave this option disabled.

: '''When using the power down feature'''

This setting controls what should happen if you tick the power down feature in the extraction dialog. Two options are avaiable:
* '''power down computer''' ''(Default: enabled)'': The computer is shut down after extraction has finished.
* '''restart computer''': The computer gets restarted after extraction.

: '''wait for external compressors'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option specifies if the shutdown or restart process should wait for any active external compressors when the power down feature in the extraction dialog is ticked. You should always leave this option enabled, because otherwise any external compressor can not finish its work before the shutdown/restart process.

: '''EAC language selection'''

This option controls the language settings of EAC. If there is a language setting available which equals the language of the operating system, this language is automatically selected at the first start of EAC.

=Tools=
[[Image:EAC_options_Tools.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Tools''' tab]]
Here the generation of [[Cue_sheet|CUE sheets]], playlists and log files is configured. There are also settings available affecting the behaviour of an external compressor.

For more information on EAC and CUE sheets, see [[EAC_and_Cue_Sheets|EAC and CUE sheets]].

: '''Retrieve UPC/ISRC codes in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When generating CUE sheets for a CD and this option is enabled, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code UPC] (Universal Product Code = barcode) and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc ISRC] (International Standard Recording Code) codes are extracted from the CD and added to the CUE file. It can be quite time comsuming extracting these information from a CD and some CDs do not contain such information at all. But to collect as much information as possible from the CD, this option should be enabled (archiving purposes).

Note that this feature of EAC is reported not to work correctly with some drives. If you plan to let EAC create CUE sheets with UPC/ISRC, you should test this feature with your drive. Just open a generated CUE sheet with a text reader (e.g. Notepad) and check the information stated.

: '''Use CD-Text information in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If your drive supports CD-text, you should leave this option enabled. This will add TITLE and PERFORMER tags to the generated CUE sheet.

: '''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC will automatically create an .m3u playlist file which contains all selected tracks for this extraction. This comes in handy if you use your PC as primary source where most media players can use these playlist files.

: '''Write m3u playlist with extended information'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is greyed out until you enable the option ''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'' (see above). If enabled, EAC adds extended information (length, title and more) to the playlist file. All additional information are added as comments. If your media player can not handle these comments correctly, you should disable this option, otherwise leave it enabled.

: '''Automatically write status report after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC automatically writes a log file after extraction in the same directory as the extracted files. To be able to comprehend the extraction process of a certain CD, it may be a good idea to save these log files. However, even if this option is disabled, it is still possible to save a log file from the status dialog after extraction. Of course, then the corresponding option also has to be enabled in the ''General'' tab (''Show status dialog after extraction'').

: '''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this setting enabled, EAC starts an external compressor as soon as the first track was extracted and therefore the extraction and compressing processes are running simultaneously. Of course, this could lead to a time saving, but also can lead to some problems: it is more likely that errors during extraction/compressing occur on older PCs. So in general, you should leave this option disabled unless you have a dual/multi core CPU.

: '''Use X simultaneous external compressor thread(s)'''
:: ''(Default: 1)''

This option is greyed out until the option above (''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'') is enabled. It controls the number of simultaneous external compressors used by EAC. The more compressors are used simultaneously, the more likely are the problems mentioned above with parallel extraction and compressing. Again, if you have a dual/multi core CPU, it is fine to use this option.

: '''Do not open external compressor window'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC does not open an external compressor window. Because this way you are not able to see the status of the external compressor (and maybe error messages), this option should be left disbaled.

: '''Submit drive features after detection (but ask for permission)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Leving this option enabled, EAC will ask if it should submit the drive features (mostly offset values) after these were detected, e.g. by the wizard. In order to help other people who are not able to determine their drive's features, it is recommended to enable this setting. You can cancel the transfer of any data anyway, because EAC will always ask you before sending any data.

: '''Activate beginner mode, disable all advanced features'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When in beginner mode, EAC hides many options important for achieving the best possible results, so make sure that this option is disabled.

=Normalize=
[[Image:EAC_options_Normalize.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Normalize''' tab]]
This tab contains all settings regarding normalization of extracted music files.

: '''Normalize'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Normalizing is the process to change the volume of a track to a given maximum loudness and is mostly used to get all tracks of a CD or compilation to the same loundess level. Of course, this would change the original track. Because of this, make sure that this option stays disabled.

: '''Normalize to X%'''
:: ''(Default: 98%)''

This option is greyed out until the above option (''Normalize'') is enabled and represents the level of normalization. 100% would be maximum loudness, but to avoid clipping, you should set it a few percents lower (e.g. 98%).

: '''But only if peak level is smaller than X% or greater than Y%'''
:: ''(Default: 85%/99%)''

With this option you can select which tracks will be normalized. All tracks which are out of the range (smaller than X, or greater than Y) are normalized, all others will not be changed.

=Filename=
[[Image:EAC_options_Filename.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Filename''' tab]]
The resulting file names and directory structures can be configured in this tab.

: '''Naming scheme'''

A naming scheme for the resulting files can be specified here. There are many placeholders stated by the option dialog which can be used to build up a naming/directory scheme (for a directory structure, just use "\", as known from the windows explorer). The only limitation is that no absolute file paths (e.g. "C:\Music\%T") can be constructed. The reason is that when starting the extraction of a disc, EAC will either ask by a dialog box where the resulting files will be stored, or will use the predefined directory (depends on what option is enabled as ''Standard directory for extraction'' in the ''Directories'' tab). The directory stated in this dialog defines the absolute path. By putting together this path and the naming scheme stated in this tab, the concrete filenames will be generated.

: '''Use various artist naming scheme'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled and the ''Various Artists'' option box is ticked (in the EAC main window), the naming scheme stated below is used. If you want different naming schemes for one/various artist CDs, then you should enable this setting. The placeholders are the same as stated above (''Naming scheme'').

: '''Replace spaces by underscores'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Enabling this option will EAC let replace spaces in filenames by underscores.

=Catalog=
[[Image:EAC_options_Catalog.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Catalog''' tab]]
Catalog options which are applied when creating catalog samples (''Action'' -> ''Catalog Selected Tracks'') can be configured here. With this function, EAC can produce short samples of each track of a disc.

: '''Catalog file length (in seconds)'''

Defines the length of each catalog sample track in seconds.

: '''Catalog start position in a track (in seconds)'''

Specifies the start position of the catalog sample in a track in seconds. As many music titles are not very significant from the beginning of a track, it may be a good idea to let the catalog samples start somewhere in the middle of a track.

: '''Fade in length (in seconds)'''

If you want that the catalog sample tracks are faded in, enter a value greater than 0.

: '''Fade out length (in seconds)'''

The same as stated above (''Fade in length (in seconds)''), but concerning fade out.

=Directories=
[[Image:EAC_options_Directories.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Directories''' tab]]
The directory where the extracted music files will be placed can be configured here.

: '''Standard directory for extraction'''

This option decides whether the user is asked where to save the resulting files every time an extraction is started, or if a standard directory should be used.

* '''Ask every time (default showing last used directory)''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Any time an extraction starts, a dialog box appears asking for the directory to be used. This directory will be saved and used as default the next time this dialog box appears.
* '''Use this directory''': When always extracting in the same directory anyway, there is no need of the dialog box stated above. In this case, a predefined directory can be specified here.

=Write=
[[Image:EAC_options_Write.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Write''' tab]]
Contains all settings for writing audio CDs with EAC.

: '''Upper all characters (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

If this option is enabled, all characters contained in the CD-text are transformed to upper case. On some CD players, this may look a little better than text in upper-/lower case.

: '''Include artist in the CD-Text track entry (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some CD players will only show the track information of the CD-text. In such a case, the artist information will not be shown. If your CD player acts this way, you should enable this option so that the artist is swapped over into the track information. As an example "Bohemian Rhapsody" will become "Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody".

: '''Disable copy protection flag on adding audio files to the layout editor by default'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When enabled, the copy protection flag will be disabled by default for all added tracks in the write layout editor. Because you can still disable the copy protection flag in the write layout editor when needed (''Layout'' -> ''Edit selected indices...'' -> untick the ''Copy protected'' checkbox), it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use CDRDAO for writing in the EAC layout editor'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When writing CDs with EAC, there are two possibilities: On the one hand, EAC can start an external application called [[CDRDAO]] to write the CD. The general advantage of CDRDAO is the compatibility with many (and even older) CD-R drives. On the other hand, EAC can use its internal writing routines. These are said wo be a bit more stable (as they are internal), but also do not support that many drives.

You should try to disable this option first and use EAC's internal writing routines. In most cases this will work properly. Only if you encounter problems with this setting, try to use CDRDAO.

Note that older versions of EAC came with two different installer packages: one with CDRDAO, the other one without. If you installed the version without CDRDAO, this option was greyed out. But since version 0.99 prebeta 3, there is only one installer available, which contains CDRDAO.

For more information on CDRDAO, see the [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage].

=Interface=
[[Image:EAC_options_Interface.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Interface''' tab]]
In this tab, the interface used for the communication between EAC and the CD drive can be confuigured.

: '''Use of SCSI interface'''
:: ''('''Recommended: Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''' (Win NT/2000/XP/Vista) / '''Installed external ASPI interface''' (Win 95/98/98SE/Me))''

For the communication with the drive, EAC can use different interfaces. First, there is the ''Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''. This is the native interface which comes with every Windows since Windows NT and is sometimes called [[SPTI]] (SCSI Pass-Through Interface). As the name implies, this is the native interface for direct communication with the drive and despite of the name, this interface is also used for non-SCSI peripherals (IDE/ATAPI, USB, Firewire, etc.). Another interface which can be used is [[ASPI]] (Advanced SCSI Programming Interface). This is not a completely different kind of interface, but only an additional layer above SPTI. Thus ASPI only maps the communication commands onto the native interface (SPTI).

If you use Windows NT or newer Windows operating systems, it is recommended that you first try the ''Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''. The reason is that any addition layer (like ASPI) on top of SPTI will increase the likelihood of errors. Only if the native interface does not work (e.g. EAC is not able to recognize your drive), then try to install an external ASPI interface and use this interface instead.

When using an older version of Windows than Windows NT, then an ASPI interface should already be installed and it is recommended to use the option ''Installed external ASPI interface''.

When you have to install an ASPI interface on your system because SPTI does not work (on Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista) or you want to use another ASPI driver (on Windows 95/98/98SE/Me), then you can do the following: The ASPI driver always recommended in conjunction with EAC is the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI Ahead Nero ASPI Driver]. Download the DLL (winaspi32.dll) and copy it into the EAC directory. Then start EAC and a choose the new option (''Installed external ASPI interface'') from this option tab.

Another (but not recommended) ASPI driver is an external ASPI interface from VOB software. For this option to be available, you have to install the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI ASPI interface from VOB software] first.

Note that all changes made in this option tab require a restart of EAC to take effect.

=External links=
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/ Exact Audio Copy: Extraction Technology]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code Wikipedia: Universal Product Code]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc Wikipedia: International Standard Recording Code]
* [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi Wikipedia: ASPI]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC Configuration Wizard

2008-01-31T18:15:54Z

Exec: Changes concerning EAC 0.99pb4

After installing [[Exact Audio Copy|EAC]] and starting the application for the first time, the '''EAC Configuration Wizard''' will be shown automatically. It is meant to help with the initial configuration of EAC by setting up the most essential options. You also can start the wizard later on by selecting ''EAC'' -> ''Configuration Wizard...'' from the EAC menu.

Please note that the configuration done by the wizard is not sufficient for perfect rips. To achieve this, a manual configuration has to be done after finishing the wizard. That is the reason why an experienced EAC user is likely to skip the wizard altogether and configure all settings on his own. But for a beginner this might be a good help for the initial configuration. In the next sections all steps of the wizard are covered in detail.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 4''

The screenshots were taken from a german Windows XP, so the buttons of the dialogs (Next, Finish, Cancel etc.) are german.

=EAC Configuration Wizard=
'''1.''' The first step is only the welcome screen of the wizard. Simply click ''Next''.

'''2.''' On the second step you can choose which drives should be configured by the wizard. Just ''tick all checkboxes'' available so that all drives are configured.
[[Image:EACwizard_1.jpg|none|thumb|Selecting the drives to configure (step 2)]]

'''3.''' After selecting the drives to configure, the following steps (including step 7) repeat for all the drives. First of all you have to choose what is more important for you: accurate results or higher ripping speed. As we want the best results possible, make sure you select the option ''I prefer to have accurate results''.

'''4.''' If your drive was found in the EAC feature databse, then a configuration is suggested in the 4th step. When you are sure, that these settings are correct you might use these suggested configuration. But it is generally a good idea to let EAC detect the drive features when running through the wizard. So tick the option ''I don't trust these values, detect the features for my drive'' and click ''Next''.
[[Image:EACwizard_3.jpg|none|thumb|Drive configuration (step 4)]]

'''5.''' In the next step EAC informs you which drive is up to be tested. If you have not done this yet, insert a clean, scratch-free CD in your drive and click ''Next''.

'''6.''' Now your drive's features are detected: accurate stream, C2 error info and caching (in this case, the caching of audio data is meant, not the caching of data in general, as this is supported by nearly all modern drives). A popup window will you inform about the process. During the drive is tested, do not produce load on your computer as this might alter the results.
[[Image:EACwizard_4.jpg|none|thumb|Detecting the drive's features (step 6)]]

'''7.''' When the popup window disappears, the detected features of the drive are shown. Just confirm these by clicking ''Next''.

'''8.''' After detecting the features of all the drives in your computer, EAC makes a suggestion about which drive should be used for best results. Note that this suggestions might be wrong and that another drive is still better for ripping (when having more drives installed on your computer). The reason for this is that EAC only looks at the features and considers accurate stream and C2 error info as good for ripping, but not the caching feature. So when two drives are installed on the computer and their features only differ in the caching capability, then it is most likely that the drive not supporting caching is suggested by EAC.

'''9.''' Next task is to configure the encoder to use with EAC. The next screen is just meant to give you some general information about the different compression options available. Just go on by clicking ''Next''.

'''10.''' In this step you can choose the encoder EAC should use. You choice depends on many factors (e.g. if you want to use a [[lossless]] or [[lossy]] format), so no recommendation can be given here. Just note the different behavior of EAC by choosing different options: When selecting ''MP3 files (around 1.5 MB/minute)'' EAC will look for [[LAME|lame.exe]] before proceeding with the next steps. If you tick the option ''FLAC (around 6 MB/minute)'', EAC configures itself automatically in the next step when [[FLAC]] was installed by the installer. For the options ''WMA (around 1.5 MB/minute)'' and ''WMA lossless (around 6 MB/minute)'' the Microsoft [[WMA]] Encoder 9 has to be installed on your computer. You also can skip the encoder configuration right now by selecting ''nothing right now, I will configure it later manually'' and clicking ''Next''
[[Image:EACwizard_7.jpg|none|thumb|Choosing the encoder to use (step 10)]]

'''11.''' What the next step looks like depends on the choice of the encoder in the previous step. When FLAC was chosen, there is just a confirmation screen. In case of [[MP3]], another information screen comes in between before the configuration is finished.

'''12.''' With the next step the access to freedb is configured. To gain access to this service, you have to specify an email address. If you don not want to enter your real email address, just enter a fake address. Just take care that it looks like a real email address (e.g. i@wont.tell).

'''13.''' In the following step the configuration of filenames is done. Just choose an appropriate directory/filename scheme which fits best for your needs.

'''14.''' This is the last step in the configuration wizard. Here it is important that you select the option ''I am expert, let me use the full potential of EAC'' to gain access to every option in EAC, which is essential for perfect rips. Click ''Finish'' to leave the wizard.
[[Image:EACwizard_8.jpg|none|thumb|I am an expert! (step 14)]]

=AccurateRip=
In general, the configuration of [[AccurateRip]] is started every time when a CD is inserted into a drive which has not been configured before and the CD is known to the AccurateRip database. When you run through all the steps of the wizard, then it is likely that a CD is still inserted in your drive after finishing the wizard, so an AccurateRip popup will be shown after the wizard. In this window the drive to configure and the expected offset will be shown.
[[Image:AccurateRip_1.jpg|none|thumb|AccurateRip popup window]]
Just click ''Configure'' to configure AccurateRip and the offset option in EAC. After a few seconds a confirmation dialog will be shown with the calculated offset.
[[Image:AccurateRip_2.jpg|none|thumb|Finishing the AccurateRip configuration]]

=The next important steps=
When perfect results are expected, we are not done after running through the EAC wizard, because many important options are not covered by the wizard. So the next steps would be the manual configuration of EAC. See the next articles dealing with the [[EAC configuration]] in detail.

=External links=
* [http://www.freedb.org/ freedb]
* [http://www.accuraterip.com/ AccurateRip]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC freedb/Database Options (Legacy)

2008-01-29T16:15:47Z

Exec:

The '''freedb/Database options''' dialog in [[EAC]] (shortcut: F12) offers several options concerning [[freedb]].

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''

=freedb=
[[Image:EAC_freedb_Database_options_freedb.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''freedb/Database options''', '''freedb''' tab]]
This tab includes settings for accessing freedb.

: '''Your e-mail address'''

To be able to retrieve or submit data from/to freedb, you have to specify an e-mail address. Otherwise, EAC will only show an error dialog when trying to submit or retrieve data to/from freedb. This e-mail address will be used to inform you in case of errors during submissions. If these messages are not important for you, you can enter a fake e-mail address here and you will never receive e-mails from freedb.

: '''Freedb server'''

With this option the freedb server to be used can be specified. Before selecting a server, an up-to-date server list can be retrieved with the button ''Get active freedb server list'' below. In general, it is not important which server is used, because all freedb server are hosting the same content.

: '''Use Proxy Server for HTTP access'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

EAC uses HTTP for communication with a freedb server. When you want to use a proxy server, just enable this option and enter the proxy server's address and port below.

: '''Use authentication for Proxy Server'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

When using a proxy server for communication with freedb and this server requires authentication, you have to enable this option and specify your username and password in the text boxes below.

: '''On a connction error, retry query using a different server from the list'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When there is a connection error while communication with a freedb server (while submitting or retrieving data), EAC can try to use another server from the ''Freedb server list''.

=Local freedb=
[[Image:EAC_freedb_Database_options_Local_freedb.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''freedb/Database options''', '''Local freedb''' tab]]
This tab offers options to use a local freedb database.

: '''Use local freedb databse'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

When this option gets enabled, EAC supports storing freedb data on the local hard disk. Then CD information can be submitted to the local database by selecting ''Database'' -> ''Export CD Information To''/''Export Whole Database To'' -> ''Local freedb'' from EAC's menu. Only the actual disc information or the whole EAC database (contents of "CDDB.DAT" file in the root directory of EAC) is submitted respectively. The local freedb contents can be queried with ''Database'' -> ''Get CD Information From'' -> ''Local freedb''.

: '''Local freedb path'''

This setting specifies the absolute path of the local freedb files.

: '''Format options'''

EAC supports two different file formats for storing local freedb content:
* '''Windows freedb file format''' (''Default: enabled)'': This is a Windows-optimized file format with the advantage that a new file is not created for every entry in the database resulting in less waste of hard disk space. Unfortunately, this particular function does not seem to work properly in EAC. There is always a new file created for every CD entry.
* '''Unix freedb file format''': This is the native freedb file format which uses one file per CD entry. This results in many small files possibly wasting hard disk space (if file size is smaller than cluster size of the file system).

=Export=
[[Image:EAC_freedb_Database_options_Export.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''freedb/Database options''', '''Export''' tab]]
This tab only offers one option for the construction of database export lines.

: '''Construction of database export lines'''
:: ''(Default: %A;%N;%T;%L)''

This option only effects the functions ''Database'' -> ''Export CD Information To''/''Export Whole Database To'' -> ''DB Text File...'' and specifies which information is written to the exported database text files.

=External links=
* [http://www.freedb.org/ freedb]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC freedb/Database Options (Legacy)

2008-01-28T21:17:34Z

Exec: New page: The '''freedb/Database oprions''' dialog in EAC (shortcut: F12) offers several options concerning freedb. ''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3'' =freedb= [[Image...

The '''freedb/Database oprions''' dialog in [[EAC]] (shortcut: F12) offers several options concerning [[freedb]].

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''

=freedb=
[[Image:EAC_freedb_Database_options_freedb.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''freedb/Database options''', '''freedb''' tab]]
This tab includes settings for accessing freedb.

: '''Your e-mail address'''

To be able to retrieve or submit data from/to freedb, you have to specify an e-mail address. Otherwise, EAC will only show an error dialog when trying to submit or retrieve data to/from freedb. This e-mail address will be used to inform you in case of errors during submissions. If these messages are not important for you, you can enter a fake e-mail address here and you will never receive e-mails from freedb.

: '''Freedb server'''

With this option the freedb server to be used can be specified. Before selecting a server, an up-to-date server list can be retrieved with the button ''Get active freedb server list'' below. In general, it is not important which server is used, because all freedb server are hosting the same content.

: '''Use Proxy Server for HTTP access'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

EAC uses HTTP for communication with a freedb server. When you want to use a proxy server, just enable this option and enter the proxy server's address and port below.

: '''Use authentication for Proxy Server'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

When using a proxy server for communication with freedb and this server requires authentication, you have to enable this option and specify your username and password in the text boxes below.

: '''On a connction error, retry query using a different server from the list'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When there is a connection error while communication with a freedb server (while submitting or retrieving data), EAC can try to use another server from the ''Freedb server list''.

=Local freedb=
[[Image:EAC_freedb_Database_options_Local_freedb.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''freedb/Database options''', '''Local freedb''' tab]]
This tab offers options to use a local freedb database.

: '''Use local freedb databse'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

When this option gets enabled, EAC supports storing freedb data on the local hard disk. Then CD information can be submitted to the local database by selecting ''Database'' -> ''Export CD Information To''/''Export Whole Database To'' -> ''Local freedb'' from EAC's menu. Only the actual disc information or the whole EAC database (contents of "CDDB.DAT" file in the root directory of EAC) is submitted respectively. The local freedb contents can be queried with ''Database'' -> ''Get CD Information From'' -> ''Local freedb''.

: '''Local freedb path'''

This setting specifies the absolute path of the local freedb files.

: '''Format options'''

EAC supports two different file formats for storing local freedb content:
* '''Windows freedb file format''' (''Default: enabled)'': This is a Windows-optimized file format with the advantage that a new file is not created for every entry in the database resulting in less waste of hard disk space. Unfortunately, this particular function does not seem to work properly in EAC. There is always a new file created for every CD entry.
* '''Unix freedb file format''': This is the native freedb file format which uses one file per CD entry. This results in many small files possibly wasting hard disk space (if file size is smaller than cluster size of the file system).

=Export=
[[Image:EAC_freedb_Database_options_Export.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''freedb/Database options''', '''Export''' tab]]
This tab only offers one option for the construction of database export lines.

: '''Construction of database export lines'''
:: ''(Default: %A;%N;%T;%L)''

This option only effects the functions ''Database'' -> ''Export CD Information To''/''Export Whole Database To'' -> ''DB Text File...'' and specifies which information is written to the exported database text files.

=External links=
* [http://www.freedb.org/ freedb]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

File:EAC freedb Database options Export.png

2008-01-28T21:04:48Z

Exec: EAC freedb/Database options, Export tab (recommended settings)

EAC freedb/Database options, Export tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC freedb Database options Local freedb.png

2008-01-28T14:10:02Z

Exec: EAC freedb/Database options, Local freedb tab (recommended settings)

EAC freedb/Database options, Local freedb tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC freedb Database options freedb.png

2008-01-28T13:31:54Z

Exec: EAC freedb/Database options, freedb tab (recommended settings)

EAC freedb/Database options, freedb tab (recommended settings)

EAC Options (Legacy)

2008-01-28T12:56:46Z

Exec: "Fill up missing offset samples with silence"

The '''EAC options dialog''' (shortcut: F9) offers several options for configuring [[EAC]] in general without focussing on drive or compression settings.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''

=Extraction=
[[Image:EAC_options_Extraction.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Extraction''' tab]]
This tab includes settings for the extraction of audio CDs.

: '''Fill up missing offset samples with silence'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''
In the case the drive is not capable of overreading into the leadin/leadout or overreading is disabled in the [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]], it is possible that some samples will be missing in the resulting [[WAV]] files. Note that only the first or last track of a CD is affected, depending on the drive having a negative or positive read offset. With this option enabled, these missing (offset) samples are filled with silence. This way, the correct length of the affected WAV files is maintained to get as close to the according original CD tracks as possible. But there is another reason why this option should be left enabled: if disabled, [[AccurateRip]] will not try to verify any tracks ripped. So when AccurateRip should be used, it is essential that this setting is enabled.

: '''No use of null samples for CRC calculations'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, null samples (silence) of a track will not be counted for CRC checksums. When this option is enabled and a track has silence at the beginning/end, this could lead to the same CRC checksums, even with different (or even wrong) drive offset values (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]). In general, this option should be disabled to ensure compatibility with other programs such as [[dBpoweramp]].

: '''Syncronize between tracks'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When ripping adjacent tracks of a CD and this option is enabled, EAC synchronizes between these tracks. This is important to avoid pops or gaps between tracks, so this option should be enabled.

: '''Delete leading and trailing silent blocks'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

If a track contains silence at the beginning and/or the end, EAC delets these silent blocks when this option is enabled. As this would possibly result in WAV files which are not identical to the original tracks, you should leave this option disabled.

: '''Skip track extraction on read or sync errors'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will skip the extraction of the current track if a read or synchronisation error occurs. If there is a read/sync error during extraction, the rip can not be guaranteed to be accurate anymore. This way, you have to decide what is more important for you: If you think that a not accurate rip is better than no rip at all, then you can leave this option disabled. Due to EAC's advanced reading features, it is possible that there are no audible artifacts. In such a case, you should check the log file where all suspicious positions are listed. Listen for yourself if you can hear any artifacts. If not, this may be ok for you.
On the other hand, if an accurate rip is most important, then this option may be enabled so that EAC skips the track when the first read/sync error occurs. When this happens, the first thing to try is to clean the CD and give it another try. When this does not work either, the only solution would be to get another (scratch free) copy of the CD and try the extraction with this one.

Because of EAC's reading strategy to read every frame multiple times to find consistent data, it is still possible that a rip is accurate even though EAC reports read errors. This is because in ''Secure mode'' EAC rereads every frame 16 times and treats a frame as "correct" when 8 reads got the same data (for more details on this, see the ''Error recovery quality'' option further below). Now it is possible no 8 reads got the same data, so EAC will report a read error, although the most consistent data (e.g. only 6 rereads match) may be correct.

: '''Skip track extraction after duration longer than X times realtime'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Due to EAC's advanced reading features, the reading procedure can last very long, especially on scatched CDs (in extreme cases this can last several hours). When this option is enabled and the ripping process takes longer than X times realtime, the affected track is skipped. It is recommended to leave this option disabled because it is likely that EAC can rip such a track even if this takes a long time.

: '''After each X mins of extraction, cool down the drive for Y mins'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

As already mentioned, the extraction of scatched CDs/tracks can last very long. This could possibly stress the drive used for extraction because of a lot of movement of the laser unit. So the whole procedure could also heat up the drive. This may decrease the reading abilities of this drive temporarily. So when you notice that your ripping drive gets unusually hot during difficult and long extraction processes, then it may be a good idea to enable this option. Otherwise you should leave this option disabled, because this will possibly lead to longer extraction times.

: '''Lock drive tray during extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC makes sure that the CD tray is not opened accidentally while ripping. Otherwise this will always result in an aborted extraction process, so leave this option enabled.

: '''Extractions and compression priority'''
:: ''(Default: Normal, '''Recommended: High''')''

With this setting the process priority of EAC and any external compressor during the extraction/compression is set. Setting this option to ''high'' could result in a little shorter ripping times. On the other hand, this could make other applications work "choppy". So if you plan to use other programs during ripping, leave this option as it is (''normal''), otherwise you can set it to ''high''.

: '''Error recovery quality'''
:: ''(Default: Medium, '''Recommended: High/Medium''')''

This setting specifies how many rereads will be done in a case of reading errors. Generally, if reading errors occur, EAC rereads these frames until eight out of 16 retries are identical ([http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/]). The ''Error recovery quality'' now specifies, how many of these 16 retires are done (''low''/''medium''/''high'': 1/3/5). A visual representation can be found in the extraction status window: the number of red bars shown for error correction.

So changing this option to ''high'' lets EAC read bad frames more often. This could lead to a better error correction, but also increases the chance that errors slip through undetcted. This is beacuse EAC will assume that a frame was read correctly if there were eight matching reads (of 16) on that frame. If there is a consistent error, EAC is not able to recognize this. So to increase the chance that no errors going unreported, this setting could be left at ''medium''.

Because of the way EAC behaves, there can not be given a clear recommendation. You have to choose between better chance of detecting errors (''medium''), or chance of better error correction (''high'').

=General=
[[Image:EAC_options_General.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''General''' tab]]
In this tab, general EAC options are included. These do not affect the quality or the accuracy of the results produced by EAC. So on most options there is no clear recommendation possible. Just adjust these options as you need them.

: '''Use alternate CD play routines'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is only important for playing an audio CD using EAC. If it is enabled, EAC sends the audio data to the soundcard digitally, so no cable between the drive and the soundcard is needed. Otherwise, when this option is disabled, only the cable between drive and soundcard is used. Therefore, if such a cable is not installed and this option gets disabled, you will not be able to play a CD using EAC at all.

: '''Disable 'CD Autostart' for audio and data CDs while EAC running'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, the autostart for all drives is disabled while EAC is running. That means that no popups or media players are started automatically which could disturb EAC while ripping.

: '''On unknown CDs'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When a CD unknown to EAC is inserted in the drive and this setting is enabled, EAC can take the following actions:
* '''automatically access online freedb database''': EAC tries to find CD information in the [[freedb]] online database automatically. For this option to work, an e-mail adress has to be specified in the [[EAC freedb/Database Options|freedb/Database Options]].
* '''open CD information dialog''': With this option enabled, a pop up is presented to the user where the CD information can be inserted manually.

: '''Display times using frames'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option decides about how times are displayed in the main window. When this option is disabled, 1/100 seconds are used. Enable this setting so that all times are displayed in frames (1 frame equals 1/75 seconds). Time information in frames is generally more native to CDs, whereas the display of 1/100 seconds is likely to be rounded and not really exact. So it is recommended to leave this option enabled.

: '''Ask before overwriting files'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

EAC will always ask if existing files should be overwritten. To be sure that no important files are overwritten, this option should be left enabled.

: '''Correct bug of wrong filename order in Windows multiple file dialog'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

The Windows file selection box sometimes has a strange behavior to exchange the first an last track when multiple files are selected. Leave this option enabled to make sure EAC automatically corrects the file order.

: '''Show status dialog after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Enabling this setting lets EAC show a status dialog after extraction. Because this dialog can give you some important information, you should leave this option enabled.

: '''Beep after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If enabled, EAC will beep (PC speaker) when extraction finished. When you do not want to sit in front of your PC while ripping, this option may come in handy.

: '''Eject CD after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will eject the CD automatically when the extraction finished. When you move away from your PC while ripping, it may be a good idea to leave this option disabled.

: '''When using the power down feature'''

This setting controls what should happen if you tick the power down feature in the extraction dialog. Two options are avaiable:
* '''power down computer''' ''(Default: enabled)'': The computer is shut down after extraction has finished.
* '''restart computer''': The computer gets restarted after extraction.

: '''wait for external compressors'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option specifies if the shutdown or restart process should wait for any active external compressors when the power down feature in the extraction dialog is ticked. You should always leave this option enabled, because otherwise any external compressor can not finish its work before the shutdown/restart process.

: '''EAC language selection'''

This option controls the language settings of EAC. If there is a language setting available which equals the language of the operating system, this language is automatically selected at the first start of EAC.

=Tools=
[[Image:EAC_options_Tools.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Tools''' tab]]
Here the generation of [[Cue_sheet|CUE sheets]], playlists and log files is configured. There are also settings available affecting the behaviour of an external compressor.

For more information on EAC and CUE sheets, see [[EAC_and_Cue_Sheets|EAC and CUE sheets]].

: '''Retrieve UPC/ISRC codes in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When generating CUE sheets for a CD and this option is enabled, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code UPC] (Universal Product Code = barcode) and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc ISRC] (International Standard Recording Code) codes are extracted from the CD and added to the CUE file. It can be quite time comsuming extracting these information from a CD and some CDs do not contain such information at all. But to collect as much information as possible from the CD, this option should be enabled (archiving purposes).

Note that this feature of EAC is reported not to work correctly with some drives. If you plan to let EAC create CUE sheets with UPC/ISRC, you should test this feature with your drive. Just open a generated CUE sheet with a text reader (e.g. Notepad) and check the information stated.

: '''Use CD-Text information in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If your drive supports CD-text, you should leave this option enabled. This will add TITLE and PERFORMER tags to the generated CUE sheet.

: '''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC will automatically create an .m3u playlist file which contains all selected tracks for this extraction. This comes in handy if you use your PC as primary source where most media players can use these playlist files.

: '''Write m3u playlist with extended information'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is greyed out until you enable the option ''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'' (see above). If enabled, EAC adds extended information (length, title and more) to the playlist file. All additional information are added as comments. If your media player can not handle these comments correctly, you should disable this option, otherwise leave it enabled.

: '''Automatically write status report after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC automatically writes a log file after extraction in the same directory as the extracted files. To be able to comprehend the extraction process of a certain CD, it may be a good idea to save these log files. However, even if this option is disabled, it is still possible to save a log file from the status dialog after extraction. Of course, then the corresponding option also has to be enabled in the ''General'' tab (''Show status dialog after extraction'').

: '''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this setting enabled, EAC starts an external compressor as soon as the first track was extracted and therefore the extraction and compressing processes are running simultaneously. Of course, this could lead to a time saving, but also can lead to some problems: it is more likely that errors during extraction/compressing occur on older PCs. So in general, you should leave this option disabled unless you have a dual/multi core CPU.

: '''Use X simultaneous external compressor thread(s)'''
:: ''(Default: 1)''

This option is greyed out until the option above (''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'') is enabled. It controls the number of simultaneous external compressors used by EAC. The more compressors are used simultaneously, the more likely are the problems mentioned above with parallel extraction and compressing. Again, if you have a dual/multi core CPU, it is fine to use this option.

: '''Do not open external compressor window'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC does not open an external compressor window. Because this way you are not able to see the status of the external compressor (and maybe error messages), this option should be left disbaled.

: '''Submit drive features after detection (but ask for permission)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Leving this option enabled, EAC will ask if it should submit the drive features (mostly offset values) after these were detected, e.g. by the wizard. In order to help other people who are not able to determine their drive's features, it is recommended to enable this setting. You can cancel the transfer of any data anyway, because EAC will always ask you before sending any data.

: '''Activate beginner mode, disable all advanced features'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When in beginner mode, EAC hides many options important for achieving the best possible results, so make sure that this option is disabled.

=Normalize=
[[Image:EAC_options_Normalize.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Normalize''' tab]]
This tab contains all settings regarding normalization of extracted music files.

: '''Normalize'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Normalizing is the process to change the volume of a track to a given maximum loudness and is mostly used to get all tracks of a CD or compilation to the same loundess level. Of course, this would change the original track. Because of this, make sure that this option stays disabled.

: '''Normalize to X%'''
:: ''(Default: 98%)''

This option is greyed out until the above option (''Normalize'') is enabled and represents the level of normalization. 100% would be maximum loudness, but to avoid clipping, you should set it a few percents lower (e.g. 98%).

: '''But only if peak level is smaller than X% or greater than Y%'''
:: ''(Default: 85%/99%)''

With this option you can select which tracks will be normalized. All tracks which are out of the range (smaller than X, or greater than Y) are normalized, all others will not be changed.

=Filename=
[[Image:EAC_options_Filename.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Filename''' tab]]
The resulting file names and directory structures can be configured in this tab.

: '''Naming scheme'''

A naming scheme for the resulting files can be specified here. There are many placeholders stated by the option dialog which can be used to build up a naming/directory scheme (for a directory structure, just use "\", as known from the windows explorer). The only limitation is that no absolute file paths (e.g. "C:\Music\%T") can be constructed. The reason is that when starting the extraction of a disc, EAC will either ask by a dialog box where the resulting files will be stored, or will use the predefined directory (depends on what option is enabled as ''Standard directory for extraction'' in the ''Directories'' tab). The directory stated in this dialog defines the absolute path. By putting together this path and the naming scheme stated in this tab, the concrete filenames will be generated.

: '''Use various artist naming scheme'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled and the ''Various Artists'' option box is ticked (in the EAC main window), the naming scheme stated below is used. If you want different naming schemes for one/various artist CDs, then you should enable this setting. The placeholders are the same as stated above (''Naming scheme'').

: '''Replace spaces by underscores'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Enabling this option will EAC let replace spaces in filenames by underscores.

=Catalog=
[[Image:EAC_options_Catalog.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Catalog''' tab]]
Catalog options which are applied when creating catalog samples (''Action'' -> ''Catalog Selected Tracks'') can be configured here. With this function, EAC can produce short samples of each track of a disc.

: '''Catalog file length (in seconds)'''

Defines the length of each catalog sample track in seconds.

: '''Catalog start position in a track (in seconds)'''

Specifies the start position of the catalog sample in a track in seconds. As many music titles are not very significant from the beginning of a track, it may be a good idea to let the catalog samples start somewhere in the middle of a track.

: '''Fade in length (in seconds)'''

If you want that the catalog sample tracks are faded in, enter a value greater than 0.

: '''Fade out length (in seconds)'''

The same as stated above (''Fade in length (in seconds)''), but concerning fade out.

=Directories=
[[Image:EAC_options_Directories.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Directories''' tab]]
The directory where the extracted music files will be placed can be configured here.

: '''Standard directory for extraction'''

This option decides whether the user is asked where to save the resulting files every time an extraction is started, or if a standard directory should be used.

* '''Ask every time (default showing last used directory)''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Any time an extraction starts, a dialog box appears asking for the directory to be used. This directory will be saved and used as default the next time this dialog box appears.
* '''Use this directory''': When always extracting in the same directory anyway, there is no need of the dialog box stated above. In this case, a predefined directory can be specified here.

=Write=
[[Image:EAC_options_Write.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Write''' tab]]
Contains all settings for writing audio CDs with EAC.

: '''Upper all characters (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

If this option is enabled, all characters contained in the CD-text are transformed to upper case. On some CD players, this may look a little better than text in upper-/lower case.

: '''Include artist in the CD-Text track entry (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some CD players will only show the track information of the CD-text. In such a case, the artist information will not be shown. If your CD player acts this way, you should enable this option so that the artist is swapped over into the track information. As an example "Bohemian Rhapsody" will become "Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody".

: '''Disable copy protection flag on adding audio files to the layout editor by default'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When enabled, the copy protection flag will be disabled by default for all added tracks in the write layout editor. Because you can still disable the copy protection flag in the write layout editor when needed (''Layout'' -> ''Edit selected indices...'' -> untick the ''Copy protected'' checkbox), it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use CDRDAO for writing in the EAC layout editor'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When writing CDs with EAC, there are two possibilities: On the one hand, EAC can start an external application called [[CDRDAO]] to write the CD. The general advantage of CDRDAO is the compatibility with many (and even older) CD-R drives. On the other hand, EAC can use its internal writing routines. These are said wo be a bit more stable (as they are internal), but also do not support that many drives.

You should try to disable this option first and use EAC's internal writing routines. In most cases this will work properly. Only if you encounter problems with this setting, try to use CDRDAO.

Note that older versions of EAC came with two different installer packages: one with CDRDAO, the other one without. If you installed the version without CDRDAO, this option was greyed out. But since version 0.99 prebeta 3, there is only one installer available, which contains CDRDAO.

For more information on CDRDAO, see the [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage].

=Interface=
[[Image:EAC_options_Interface.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Interface''' tab]]
In this tab, the interface used for the communication between EAC and the CD drive can be confuigured.

: '''Use of SCSI interface'''
:: ''('''Recommended: Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''' (Win NT/2000/XP/Vista) / '''Installed external ASPI interface''' (Win 95/98/98SE/Me))''

For the communication with the drive, EAC can use different interfaces. First, there is the ''Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''. This is the native interface which comes with every Windows since Windows NT and is sometimes called [[SPTI]] (SCSI Pass-Through Interface). As the name implies, this is the native interface for direct communication with the drive and despite of the name, this interface is also used for non-SCSI peripherals (IDE/ATAPI, USB, Firewire, etc.). Another interface which can be used is [[ASPI]] (Advanced SCSI Programming Interface). This is not a completely different kind of interface, but only an additional layer above SPTI. Thus ASPI only maps the communication commands onto the native interface (SPTI).

If you use Windows NT or newer Windows operating systems, it is recommended that you first try the ''Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''. The reason is that any addition layer (like ASPI) on top of SPTI will increase the likelihood of errors. Only if the native interface does not work (e.g. EAC is not able to recognize your drive), then try to install an external ASPI interface and use this interface instead.

When using an older version of Windows than Windows NT, then an ASPI interface should already be installed and it is recommended to use the option ''Installed external ASPI interface''.

When you have to install an ASPI interface on your system because SPTI does not work (on Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista) or you want to use another ASPI driver (on Windows 95/98/98SE/Me), then you can do the following: The ASPI driver always recommended in conjunction with EAC is the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI Ahead Nero ASPI Driver]. Download the DLL (winaspi32.dll) and copy it into the EAC directory. Then start EAC and a choose the new option (''Installed external ASPI interface'') from this option tab.

Another (but not recommended) ASPI driver is an external ASPI interface from VOB software. For this option to be available, you have to install the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI ASPI interface from VOB software] first.

Note that all changes made in this option tab require a restart of EAC to take effect.

=External links=
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/ Exact Audio Copy: Extraction Technology]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code Wikipedia: Universal Product Code]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc Wikipedia: International Standard Recording Code]
* [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi Wikipedia: ASPI]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC Options (Legacy)

2008-01-26T16:28:39Z

Exec: "Use of SCSI interface", some smaller changes

The '''EAC options dialog''' (shortcut: F9) offers several options for configuring [[EAC]] in general without focussing on drive or compression settings.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''

=Extraction=
[[Image:EAC_options_Extraction.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Extraction''' tab]]
This tab includes settings for the extraction of audio CDs.

: '''Fill up missing offset samples with silence'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''
In the case the drive is not capable of overreading into the leadin/leadout or overreading is disabled in the [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]], it is possible that some samples will be missing in the resulting [[WAV]] files. Note that only the first or last track of a CD is affected, depending on the drive having a negative or positive read offset. With this option enabled, these missing (offset) samples are filled with silence. This way, the correct length of the affected WAV files is maintained to get as close to the according original CD tracks as possible. If this option is disabled, some samples will possibly be missing in the resulting WAV files and it is likely that [[AccurateRip]] will not be able to verify tracks as accurate (wrong checksums may be calculated because of these missing samples).

: '''No use of null samples for CRC calculations'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, null samples (silence) of a track will not be counted for CRC checksums. When this option is enabled and a track has silence at the beginning/end, this could lead to the same CRC checksums, even with different (or even wrong) drive offset values (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]). In general, this option should be disabled to ensure compatibility with other programs such as [[dBpoweramp]].

: '''Syncronize between tracks'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When ripping adjacent tracks of a CD and this option is enabled, EAC synchronizes between these tracks. This is important to avoid pops or gaps between tracks, so this option should be enabled.

: '''Delete leading and trailing silent blocks'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

If a track contains silence at the beginning and/or the end, EAC delets these silent blocks when this option is enabled. As this would possibly result in WAV files which are not identical to the original tracks, you should leave this option disabled.

: '''Skip track extraction on read or sync errors'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will skip the extraction of the current track if a read or synchronisation error occurs. If there is a read/sync error during extraction, the rip can not be guaranteed to be accurate anymore. This way, you have to decide what is more important for you: If you think that a not accurate rip is better than no rip at all, then you can leave this option disabled. Due to EAC's advanced reading features, it is possible that there are no audible artifacts. In such a case, you should check the log file where all suspicious positions are listed. Listen for yourself if you can hear any artifacts. If not, this may be ok for you.
On the other hand, if an accurate rip is most important, then this option may be enabled so that EAC skips the track when the first read/sync error occurs. When this happens, the first thing to try is to clean the CD and give it another try. When this does not work either, the only solution would be to get another (scratch free) copy of the CD and try the extraction with this one.

Because of EAC's reading strategy to read every frame multiple times to find consistent data, it is still possible that a rip is accurate even though EAC reports read errors. This is because in ''Secure mode'' EAC rereads every frame 16 times and treats a frame as "correct" when 8 reads got the same data (for more details on this, see the ''Error recovery quality'' option further below). Now it is possible no 8 reads got the same data, so EAC will report a read error, although the most consistent data (e.g. only 6 rereads match) may be correct.

: '''Skip track extraction after duration longer than X times realtime'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Due to EAC's advanced reading features, the reading procedure can last very long, especially on scatched CDs (in extreme cases this can last several hours). When this option is enabled and the ripping process takes longer than X times realtime, the affected track is skipped. It is recommended to leave this option disabled because it is likely that EAC can rip such a track even if this takes a long time.

: '''After each X mins of extraction, cool down the drive for Y mins'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

As already mentioned, the extraction of scatched CDs/tracks can last very long. This could possibly stress the drive used for extraction because of a lot of movement of the laser unit. So the whole procedure could also heat up the drive. This may decrease the reading abilities of this drive temporarily. So when you notice that your ripping drive gets unusually hot during difficult and long extraction processes, then it may be a good idea to enable this option. Otherwise you should leave this option disabled, because this will possibly lead to longer extraction times.

: '''Lock drive tray during extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC makes sure that the CD tray is not opened accidentally while ripping. Otherwise this will always result in an aborted extraction process, so leave this option enabled.

: '''Extractions and compression priority'''
:: ''(Default: Normal, '''Recommended: High''')''

With this setting the process priority of EAC and any external compressor during the extraction/compression is set. Setting this option to ''high'' could result in a little shorter ripping times. On the other hand, this could make other applications work "choppy". So if you plan to use other programs during ripping, leave this option as it is (''normal''), otherwise you can set it to ''high''.

: '''Error recovery quality'''
:: ''(Default: Medium, '''Recommended: High/Medium''')''

This setting specifies how many rereads will be done in a case of reading errors. Generally, if reading errors occur, EAC rereads these frames until eight out of 16 retries are identical ([http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/]). The ''Error recovery quality'' now specifies, how many of these 16 retires are done (''low''/''medium''/''high'': 1/3/5). A visual representation can be found in the extraction status window: the number of red bars shown for error correction.

So changing this option to ''high'' lets EAC read bad frames more often. This could lead to a better error correction, but also increases the chance that errors slip through undetcted. This is beacuse EAC will assume that a frame was read correctly if there were eight matching reads (of 16) on that frame. If there is a consistent error, EAC is not able to recognize this. So to increase the chance that no errors going unreported, this setting could be left at ''medium''.

Because of the way EAC behaves, there can not be given a clear recommendation. You have to choose between better chance of detecting errors (''medium''), or chance of better error correction (''high'').

=General=
[[Image:EAC_options_General.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''General''' tab]]
In this tab, general EAC options are included. These do not affect the quality or the accuracy of the results produced by EAC. So on most options there is no clear recommendation possible. Just adjust these options as you need them.

: '''Use alternate CD play routines'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is only important for playing an audio CD using EAC. If it is enabled, EAC sends the audio data to the soundcard digitally, so no cable between the drive and the soundcard is needed. Otherwise, when this option is disabled, only the cable between drive and soundcard is used. Therefore, if such a cable is not installed and this option gets disabled, you will not be able to play a CD using EAC at all.

: '''Disable 'CD Autostart' for audio and data CDs while EAC running'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, the autostart for all drives is disabled while EAC is running. That means that no popups or media players are started automatically which could disturb EAC while ripping.

: '''On unknown CDs'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When a CD unknown to EAC is inserted in the drive and this setting is enabled, EAC can take the following actions:
* '''automatically access online freedb database''': EAC tries to find CD information in the [[freedb]] online database automatically. For this option to work, an e-mail adress has to be specified in the [[EAC freedb/Database Options|freedb/Database Options]].
* '''open CD information dialog''': With this option enabled, a pop up is presented to the user where the CD information can be inserted manually.

: '''Display times using frames'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option decides about how times are displayed in the main window. When this option is disabled, 1/100 seconds are used. Enable this setting so that all times are displayed in frames (1 frame equals 1/75 seconds). Time information in frames is generally more native to CDs, whereas the display of 1/100 seconds is likely to be rounded and not really exact. So it is recommended to leave this option enabled.

: '''Ask before overwriting files'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

EAC will always ask if existing files should be overwritten. To be sure that no important files are overwritten, this option should be left enabled.

: '''Correct bug of wrong filename order in Windows multiple file dialog'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

The Windows file selection box sometimes has a strange behavior to exchange the first an last track when multiple files are selected. Leave this option enabled to make sure EAC automatically corrects the file order.

: '''Show status dialog after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Enabling this setting lets EAC show a status dialog after extraction. Because this dialog can give you some important information, you should leave this option enabled.

: '''Beep after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If enabled, EAC will beep (PC speaker) when extraction finished. When you do not want to sit in front of your PC while ripping, this option may come in handy.

: '''Eject CD after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will eject the CD automatically when the extraction finished. When you move away from your PC while ripping, it may be a good idea to leave this option disabled.

: '''When using the power down feature'''

This setting controls what should happen if you tick the power down feature in the extraction dialog. Two options are avaiable:
* '''power down computer''' ''(Default: enabled)'': The computer is shut down after extraction has finished.
* '''restart computer''': The computer gets restarted after extraction.

: '''wait for external compressors'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option specifies if the shutdown or restart process should wait for any active external compressors when the power down feature in the extraction dialog is ticked. You should always leave this option enabled, because otherwise any external compressor can not finish its work before the shutdown/restart process.

: '''EAC language selection'''

This option controls the language settings of EAC. If there is a language setting available which equals the language of the operating system, this language is automatically selected at the first start of EAC.

=Tools=
[[Image:EAC_options_Tools.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Tools''' tab]]
Here the generation of [[Cue_sheet|CUE sheets]], playlists and log files is configured. There are also settings available affecting the behaviour of an external compressor.

For more information on EAC and CUE sheets, see [[EAC_and_Cue_Sheets|EAC and CUE sheets]].

: '''Retrieve UPC/ISRC codes in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When generating CUE sheets for a CD and this option is enabled, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code UPC] (Universal Product Code = barcode) and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc ISRC] (International Standard Recording Code) codes are extracted from the CD and added to the CUE file. It can be quite time comsuming extracting these information from a CD and some CDs do not contain such information at all. But to collect as much information as possible from the CD, this option should be enabled (archiving purposes).

Note that this feature of EAC is reported not to work correctly with some drives. If you plan to let EAC create CUE sheets with UPC/ISRC, you should test this feature with your drive. Just open a generated CUE sheet with a text reader (e.g. Notepad) and check the information stated.

: '''Use CD-Text information in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If your drive supports CD-text, you should leave this option enabled. This will add TITLE and PERFORMER tags to the generated CUE sheet.

: '''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC will automatically create an .m3u playlist file which contains all selected tracks for this extraction. This comes in handy if you use your PC as primary source where most media players can use these playlist files.

: '''Write m3u playlist with extended information'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is greyed out until you enable the option ''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'' (see above). If enabled, EAC adds extended information (length, title and more) to the playlist file. All additional information are added as comments. If your media player can not handle these comments correctly, you should disable this option, otherwise leave it enabled.

: '''Automatically write status report after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC automatically writes a log file after extraction in the same directory as the extracted files. To be able to comprehend the extraction process of a certain CD, it may be a good idea to save these log files. However, even if this option is disabled, it is still possible to save a log file from the status dialog after extraction. Of course, then the corresponding option also has to be enabled in the ''General'' tab (''Show status dialog after extraction'').

: '''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this setting enabled, EAC starts an external compressor as soon as the first track was extracted and therefore the extraction and compressing processes are running simultaneously. Of course, this could lead to a time saving, but also can lead to some problems: it is more likely that errors during extraction/compressing occur on older PCs. So in general, you should leave this option disabled unless you have a dual/multi core CPU.

: '''Use X simultaneous external compressor thread(s)'''
:: ''(Default: 1)''

This option is greyed out until the option above (''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'') is enabled. It controls the number of simultaneous external compressors used by EAC. The more compressors are used simultaneously, the more likely are the problems mentioned above with parallel extraction and compressing. Again, if you have a dual/multi core CPU, it is fine to use this option.

: '''Do not open external compressor window'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC does not open an external compressor window. Because this way you are not able to see the status of the external compressor (and maybe error messages), this option should be left disbaled.

: '''Submit drive features after detection (but ask for permission)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Leving this option enabled, EAC will ask if it should submit the drive features (mostly offset values) after these were detected, e.g. by the wizard. In order to help other people who are not able to determine their drive's features, it is recommended to enable this setting. You can cancel the transfer of any data anyway, because EAC will always ask you before sending any data.

: '''Activate beginner mode, disable all advanced features'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When in beginner mode, EAC hides many options important for achieving the best possible results, so make sure that this option is disabled.

=Normalize=
[[Image:EAC_options_Normalize.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Normalize''' tab]]
This tab contains all settings regarding normalization of extracted music files.

: '''Normalize'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Normalizing is the process to change the volume of a track to a given maximum loudness and is mostly used to get all tracks of a CD or compilation to the same loundess level. Of course, this would change the original track. Because of this, make sure that this option stays disabled.

: '''Normalize to X%'''
:: ''(Default: 98%)''

This option is greyed out until the above option (''Normalize'') is enabled and represents the level of normalization. 100% would be maximum loudness, but to avoid clipping, you should set it a few percents lower (e.g. 98%).

: '''But only if peak level is smaller than X% or greater than Y%'''
:: ''(Default: 85%/99%)''

With this option you can select which tracks will be normalized. All tracks which are out of the range (smaller than X, or greater than Y) are normalized, all others will not be changed.

=Filename=
[[Image:EAC_options_Filename.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Filename''' tab]]
The resulting file names and directory structures can be configured in this tab.

: '''Naming scheme'''

A naming scheme for the resulting files can be specified here. There are many placeholders stated by the option dialog which can be used to build up a naming/directory scheme (for a directory structure, just use "\", as known from the windows explorer). The only limitation is that no absolute file paths (e.g. "C:\Music\%T") can be constructed. The reason is that when starting the extraction of a disc, EAC will either ask by a dialog box where the resulting files will be stored, or will use the predefined directory (depends on what option is enabled as ''Standard directory for extraction'' in the ''Directories'' tab). The directory stated in this dialog defines the absolute path. By putting together this path and the naming scheme stated in this tab, the concrete filenames will be generated.

: '''Use various artist naming scheme'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled and the ''Various Artists'' option box is ticked (in the EAC main window), the naming scheme stated below is used. If you want different naming schemes for one/various artist CDs, then you should enable this setting. The placeholders are the same as stated above (''Naming scheme'').

: '''Replace spaces by underscores'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Enabling this option will EAC let replace spaces in filenames by underscores.

=Catalog=
[[Image:EAC_options_Catalog.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Catalog''' tab]]
Catalog options which are applied when creating catalog samples (''Action'' -> ''Catalog Selected Tracks'') can be configured here. With this function, EAC can produce short samples of each track of a disc.

: '''Catalog file length (in seconds)'''

Defines the length of each catalog sample track in seconds.

: '''Catalog start position in a track (in seconds)'''

Specifies the start position of the catalog sample in a track in seconds. As many music titles are not very significant from the beginning of a track, it may be a good idea to let the catalog samples start somewhere in the middle of a track.

: '''Fade in length (in seconds)'''

If you want that the catalog sample tracks are faded in, enter a value greater than 0.

: '''Fade out length (in seconds)'''

The same as stated above (''Fade in length (in seconds)''), but concerning fade out.

=Directories=
[[Image:EAC_options_Directories.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Directories''' tab]]
The directory where the extracted music files will be placed can be configured here.

: '''Standard directory for extraction'''

This option decides whether the user is asked where to save the resulting files every time an extraction is started, or if a standard directory should be used.

* '''Ask every time (default showing last used directory)''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Any time an extraction starts, a dialog box appears asking for the directory to be used. This directory will be saved and used as default the next time this dialog box appears.
* '''Use this directory''': When always extracting in the same directory anyway, there is no need of the dialog box stated above. In this case, a predefined directory can be specified here.

=Write=
[[Image:EAC_options_Write.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Write''' tab]]
Contains all settings for writing audio CDs with EAC.

: '''Upper all characters (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

If this option is enabled, all characters contained in the CD-text are transformed to upper case. On some CD players, this may look a little better than text in upper-/lower case.

: '''Include artist in the CD-Text track entry (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some CD players will only show the track information of the CD-text. In such a case, the artist information will not be shown. If your CD player acts this way, you should enable this option so that the artist is swapped over into the track information. As an example "Bohemian Rhapsody" will become "Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody".

: '''Disable copy protection flag on adding audio files to the layout editor by default'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When enabled, the copy protection flag will be disabled by default for all added tracks in the write layout editor. Because you can still disable the copy protection flag in the write layout editor when needed (''Layout'' -> ''Edit selected indices...'' -> untick the ''Copy protected'' checkbox), it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use CDRDAO for writing in the EAC layout editor'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When writing CDs with EAC, there are two possibilities: On the one hand, EAC can start an external application called [[CDRDAO]] to write the CD. The general advantage of CDRDAO is the compatibility with many (and even older) CD-R drives. On the other hand, EAC can use its internal writing routines. These are said wo be a bit more stable (as they are internal), but also do not support that many drives.

You should try to disable this option first and use EAC's internal writing routines. In most cases this will work properly. Only if you encounter problems with this setting, try to use CDRDAO.

Note that older versions of EAC came with two different installer packages: one with CDRDAO, the other one without. If you installed the version without CDRDAO, this option was greyed out. But since version 0.99 prebeta 3, there is only one installer available, which contains CDRDAO.

For more information on CDRDAO, see the [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage].

=Interface=
[[Image:EAC_options_Interface.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Interface''' tab]]
In this tab, the interface used for the communication between EAC and the CD drive can be confuigured.

: '''Use of SCSI interface'''
:: ''('''Recommended: Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''' (Win NT/2000/XP/Vista) / '''Installed external ASPI interface''' (Win 95/98/98SE/Me))''

For the communication with the drive, EAC can use different interfaces. First, there is the ''Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''. This is the native interface which comes with every Windows since Windows NT and is sometimes called [[SPTI]] (SCSI Pass-Through Interface). As the name implies, this is the native interface for direct communication with the drive and despite of the name, this interface is also used for non-SCSI peripherals (IDE/ATAPI, USB, Firewire, etc.). Another interface which can be used is [[ASPI]] (Advanced SCSI Programming Interface). This is not a completely different kind of interface, but only an additional layer above SPTI. Thus ASPI only maps the communication commands onto the native interface (SPTI).

If you use Windows NT or newer Windows operating systems, it is recommended that you first try the ''Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP''. The reason is that any addition layer (like ASPI) on top of SPTI will increase the likelihood of errors. Only if the native interface does not work (e.g. EAC is not able to recognize your drive), then try to install an external ASPI interface and use this interface instead.

When using an older version of Windows than Windows NT, then an ASPI interface should already be installed and it is recommended to use the option ''Installed external ASPI interface''.

When you have to install an ASPI interface on your system because SPTI does not work (on Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista) or you want to use another ASPI driver (on Windows 95/98/98SE/Me), then you can do the following: The ASPI driver always recommended in conjunction with EAC is the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI Ahead Nero ASPI Driver]. Download the DLL (winaspi32.dll) and copy it into the EAC directory. Then start EAC and a choose the new option (''Installed external ASPI interface'') from this option tab.

Another (but not recommended) ASPI driver is an external ASPI interface from VOB software. For this option to be available, you have to install the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI ASPI interface from VOB software] first.

Note that all changes made in this option tab require a restart of EAC to take effect.

=External links=
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/ Exact Audio Copy: Extraction Technology]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code Wikipedia: Universal Product Code]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc Wikipedia: International Standard Recording Code]
* [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi Wikipedia: ASPI]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC Compression Options (Legacy)

2008-01-25T15:26:46Z

Exec: "Bit rate" option, general recommendation

In the '''compression options dialog''' in [[EAC]] (shortcut: F11) all options can be found regarding the compression of music files. Here EAC's behavior when clicking on the ''MP3'' Button in the main window or items in the ''Action'' menu (and then starting a ''compressed'' action) are specified.

Note that many options are dependent on the codec or external compressor (encoder). So often no clear recommendation can be given. It is just important that you understand what these settings do and how they possibly change the behavior of EAC and/or the codec/external compressor.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''

=Waveform=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_Waveform.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''compression options''', '''Waveform''' tab]]
This tab offers settings to select a codec installed on your system and the appropriate options to compress [[WAV]] files. When you want to use an external compressor, then these options are rather unimportant (see the tab ''External Compression'').

Note that all options are greyed out here if ''Use external program for compression'' in the ''External Compression'' tab is ticked.

: '''Wave format'''

In this drop down box all codecs installed on your system are listed. When new codecs are installed which can compress WAV files, they should show up in this list. The codec to choose depends on what should be achieved with the compression (sample format, compression ratio, etc.).

: '''Sample format'''

With this option a sample format (sample rate, resolution, mono/stereo) can be chosen. Which options are available here depends on the codec selected at the ''Wave format'' option (e.g. some codecs only support 4 bit resolution). To keep the same sample format as a CD, ''44,100 kHz; 16 Bit'' has to be selected.

: '''Add ID3 tag'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Some formats (e.g. [[MP3]]) support [[ID3|ID3 tags]]. When this option is enabled, EAC will add these tags to the compressed files (only if the file format supports ID3 tags).

: '''Do not write WAV header to file'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

For playback of some file formats (e.g. MP3), Windows can use a codec designated for WAV playback. In this case, the file should have a WAV header according to the [http://www.sonicspot.com/guide/wavefiles.html WAV specification] (standard [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resource_Interchange_File_Format RIFF] (Resource Interchange File Format) file format structure). This way, it may be possible to play file formats with a program that normally can only read WAV files.

On the other hand, files which are not WAV files should usually not contain a WAV file header. So for other (non-WAV) files, this option should be enabled. Therefore a file extension for headerless files also has to be specified (see option below).

: '''File extension for header files'''
:: ''(Default: .raw)''

When the ''Do not write WAV header to file'' option is enabled, a file extension of the compressed files can be specified here (e.g. ''.mp3'' for MP3 files). If the above option is disabled, this setting gets greyed out automatically.

: '''Quality setting'''
:: ''(Default: High quality (slow), '''Recommended: High quality (slow)''')''

Some codecs support a quality setting to choose between a higher quality of the output files or faster encoding speed. If quality is the only matter, leave this option at the default, which is ''High quality (slow)''.

=External Compression=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_External_Compression.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC '''compression options''', '''External Compression''' tab]]
In this tab, all options for external compressors can be configured. As all settings are highly dependent on the particular compressor, most settings are only described here because often no clear recommendations can be given.

'''''General recommendation:''''' To avoid unwanted side effects and to be able to configure the encoding process in every detail, ''User Defined Encoder'' should be used as ''Parameter passing scheme'' and all options should be specified via the ''Additional command-line options'' only.

"Side effects" basically means that it is a little complex what options have which effect when another ''Parameter passing scheme'' is specified (e.g. some settings are ignored completely). These side effects are explained in the following parameters, but specifying ''User Defined Encoder'' and using the command-line options only is a lot more convenient.

There are also a few articles with details about how to configure EAC to use particular encoders:
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_FLAC EAC and FLAC]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Lame EAC and LAME]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Monkey%27s_Audio EAC and Monkey's Audio]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Musepack EAC and Musepack]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Ogg_Vorbis EAC and OGG Vorbis]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_WavPack EAC and WavPack]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_TAK EAC and TAK]

: '''Use external program for compression'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

To use an external compressor, this setting has to be enabled. Otherwise all the options in this tab are greyed out.

: '''Parameter passing scheme'''

EAC comes with a few presets concerning external compressors and the required parameter passing scheme which can be selected with this option (e.g. the ''Bit rate'' box will show all available options after a particular compressor was chosen here). But in general, the capabilities of EAC in passing parameters to external compressors are limited. To be not bound to EAC's capabilities, you can use the ''Additional command-line options'' for additional parameter passing. When doing so, all these additional command-line options have a higher priority than other settings in this tab (only one exception with the option ''Add ID3 tag'' - see below). For example, when you specify a particular bit rate by additional command-line option, then the ''Bit rate'' setting will not have an effect anymore. Also a file extension has to be specified with the option ''Use file extension'' when a user defined encoder is used.

The usual approach is setting the ''Parameter passing scheme'' to ''User Defined Encoder'' and specifying all the encoding options by using the ''Additional command-line options'' only.

But note that the following settings in this tab are ignored when ''User Defined Encoder'' is selected and no placeholders are used in the ''Additional command-line options'' to explicitly state the usage of these options (more information can be found in the decription to the particular settings):
* ''Bit rate'' (unless specified with the <code>%r</code> placeholder in the ''Additional command-line options'')
* ''Quality settings'' (unless the placeholders <code>%h...%h</code> and <code>%l...%l</code> are used in the ''Additional command-line options'')
* ''Use CRC check'' (unless the <code>%c</code> placeholder is used in the ''Additional command-line options'')

: '''Use file extentsion'''

When chosen the entry ''User Defined Encoder'' on the setting ''Parameter passing scheme'', a file extension has to be specified here. This should be the extension of the encoded file type (e.g. ".flac" when using a [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Flac FLAC] encoder).

: '''Program, including path, used for compression'''

The absolute path to the program used for compression. This may be an .exe or a .dll file (e.g. "C:\Program Files\LAME\lame.exe"). By clicking on the ''Browse...'' button, this path can be chosen by a file dialog.

: '''Additional command-line options'''

Here additional parameters for the external compressor can be specified. All additional parameters entered here have a higher priority than other options in this tab (e.g. you can override the ''Bit rate'' setting by specifying a bit rate via command-line). The only exception of this is the ''Add ID3 tag'' option (see below).

To configure the additional command-line options, you can use the following placeholders (taken from the [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/support/faq/ EAC FAQ]):

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! placeholder
! meaning
|-
| %s
| Source filename
|-
| %d
| Destination filename
|-
| %h...%h
| Text "..." only when ''High quality'' selected
|-
| %l...%l
| Text "..." only when ''Low quality'' selected
|-
| %c...%c
| Text "..." only when ''CRC checksum'' selected
|-
| %r
| Bitrate ("32".."320") as chosen in the ''Bit rate'' option
|-
| %a
| CD artist
|-
| %g
| CD title
|-
| %t
| Track title
|-
| %y
| Year
|-
| %n
| Track number
|-
| %m
| MP3 music genre
|-
| %o
| Original filename (without temporary renaming)
|-
| %e
| Comment (as selected in EAC)
|-
| %b
| CRC of extracted track
|-
| %f
| freedb ID
|-
| %x
| Number of tracks on album
|}

So an exemplary command-line could look like this ([[LAME]]):
<pre>-V 0 --vbr-new --ta "%a" --tt "%t" --tl "%g" --tg "%m" --ty "%y" --tn "%n" --tc "%e" %s %d</pre>

As you can see, the command-line options of LAME (e.g. <code>-V 0</code>, <code>--ta</code>, <code>--tt</code>, etc.) are used in conjunction with the EAC placeholders (e.g. <code>%a</code>, <code>%t</code>, etc.) to control LAME only by this command-line.

: '''Bit rate'''

What is shown in this dropdown box depends on the ''Parameter passing scheme'' selected and specifies the bit rate/quality settings of the external compressor.

In the case of ''User Defined Encoder'' selected as ''Parameter passing scheme'' (and only then), this setting does not have an effect unless the <code>%r</code> parameter was specified in the ''Additional command-line options''. When any other ''Parameter passing scheme'' is chosen, only the ''Bit rate'' option should be used to set the bit rate the encoder should use. Avoid mixing up two bit rate settings (''Bit rate'' option and command-line options), because this can lead to unwanted side effects (this is due to the encoder will be called by EAC with two different bit rate parameters then, unpredictable how the encoder will react to this).

: '''Quality setting'''
:: ''(Default: High quality, '''Recommended: High quality''')''

Many encoders offer the choice between better quality or faster encoding speed. This option is designated to choose between these two settings, but the precise behavior depends on what is selected on the ''Parameter passing scheme'':

If ''User Defined Encoder'' is chosen, this option does not have an effect unless the <code>%h...%h</code> and <code>%l...%l</code> parameters are used in the ''Additional command-line options'' (see below). When any other ''Parameter passing scheme'' is used, this setting is reflected on the particular encoder. When using LAME for instance, ''High quality'' corresponds to the <code>-h</code> switch, whereas ''Low quality'' uses the <code>-f</code> switch (in this case, these switches specify the "Noise shaping and psycho acoustic algorithms", means choice between quality and encoding speed).
So when you opt for the best possible quality when using another ''Parameter passing scheme'' then ''User Defined Encoder'', make sure ''High quality'' is selected.

As already mentioned above, with this setting it is also possible to configure the ''Additional command-line option'' even further: With the placeholders <code>%h...%h</code> and <code>%l...%l</code> you can specify two different settings for the external compressor which can be controlled by this option. The following example (simplified) shows how to use this feature (again with LAME):

<pre>%h -V 0 %s %d %h %l -V 5 %s %d %l</pre>

In this case, if the ''High quality'' option is chosen, then then LAME will encode with <code>-V 0</code>, otherwise with <code>-V 5</code> when ''Low quality'' is selected.

: '''Delete WAV after compression'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If this setting is enabled, EAC automatically delets the extracted WAV file after compression. If you do not need these files (of course the compressed files are kept) after extraction/compression, leave this option enabled.

: '''Use CRC check'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some encoders have the ability to store a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclic_redundancy_check CRC] checksum (cyclic redundancy check) in the resulting (compressed) file. This might be used then to check the consistency of this file during playback. But enabling this CRC check has two major drawbacks: First, this will add 16 bits (the CRC value) on every frame of the encoded file and will possibly increase the file size considerably. Second, many encoders do not support this feature very well because of calculating wrong CRC checksums. So usually players will simply ignore this information. This option also has no effect at all when selected ''User Defined Encoder'' at the ''Parameter passing scheme''. Thus having more disadvantages, it is generally recommended to disable this option regardless of the encoder used.

: '''Add ID3 tag'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When this option is enabled, EAC writes ID3 tags to the compressed files if the file type supports ID3 tags (e.g. when encoding to FLAC, this option will not have any effect, because FLAC uses [[Vorbis|vorbis]] tags and not ID3). The settings used (version of ID3, padding, etc.) are determined in the ''ID3 Tag'' tab. Another possibility to specify ID3 tagging is to use the external compressor itself to tag the resulting files. This would be done via the ''Additional command-line options''. But note that when this option is enabled, these tagging instructions via command-line do not have any effect, because EAC just overrides the tags written by the encoder.

Generally, it is recommended to disable this option in EAC and let the encoder write the ID3 tags. This way the full tagging abilities of the encoder can be used.

: '''Check for external programs return code'''
:: ''(Default: disbaled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this setting is enabled, EAC checks the return code of an external compressor. When the external compressor returns an error code (e.g. because of a wrong command-line parameter was used), EAC shows this error message in a dialog box. So it is recommended to enable this option to notice any errors the encoder returns.

Note that there may be some external compressors returning codes which EAC wrongly interprets as error code. If you experience such problems, try disabling this option.

=Offset=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_Offset.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC '''compression options''', '''Offset''' tab]]
This tab offers options regarding offset correction during encoding/decoding and the ID3 tag comment field.

Note: The offset mentioned here has nothing to do with a drive offset and therefore should not be mistaken.

: '''Use Offset Correction for encoding and decoding'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some encoders will have an offset when encoding. This means that at the beginning of a track they often add some silence, whereas a few samples could be missing at the end. When decoding again, this could result in some unwanted gaps. This options offers now the opportunity to correct this encoding/decoding offset so that the original file can be reconstructed (at least concerning correct beginning/end of a track; with [[Lossy|lossy]] formats the original file can not be reconstructed completely). The point behind this option is that is possible that there is such an offset between the codec which is used for encoding (the actual codec) and the other one used for decoding (default installed codec). An example would be using LAME for MP3 encoding and the Fraunhofer codec for decoding. In this case, this option would be useful.

So when you decode your encoded files and experience some unwanted gaps in the decoded files, then you should try to enable this option and configure it accordingly (see below). In all other cases, leave this option disabled (especially when you encode and decode with the same encoder anyway).

: '''Sample offset'''
:: ''(Default: 0)''

When enabling the option ''Use Offset Correction for encoding and decoding'', a sample offset has to be entered here. With a click on the button ''Detect Offset...'' the correct offset can be recognized automatically.

: '''Use LAME command-line encoder/decoder for decoding MP3 files'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

This option is usually greyed out. To make it available, a LAME executable (lame.exe) has to be placed in the EAC directory. This has to be done manually.

If this option is enabled then, LAME is used automatically to decode MP3 files (''Tools'' -> ''Decompress...''). This overrides EAC's behavior which uses the Fraunhofer codec for MP3 decoding by default.

: '''Construction of the ID3 tag comment field on extraction'''

When the option ''Add ID3 tag'' in the ''External Compression'' tab is enabled, this setting specifies what information should be stored in the comment field. When EAC is not used to tag compressed files and tagging is completely done via command-line parameters, this setting specifies the contents of the "%e" placeholder which can be used in the command-line then. The following options are available:

* '''Write "Track <tracknumber>" into ID3 tag comment field''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Tracknumbers are written into the comment fields.
* '''Write CRC checksums into ID3 tag comment field''': CRC checksums are written into the comment fields.
* '''Write freedb ID into ID3 tag comment field''': freedb IDs are written into the comment fields.
* '''Write following text into ID3 tag comment field''': A user defined text is written into the comment fields.

=ID3 Tag=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_ID3_Tag.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC '''compression options''', '''ID3 Tag''' tab]]
This tab offers some options regarding the ID3 tagging capabilities of EAC. Note that the option ''Add ID3 tag'' in the ''External Compression'' tab has to be enabled for all these settings to have an effect.

: '''Use ID3V1.1 tags instead of ID3V1.0 tags'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, ID3v1.1 tags are used instead of ID3v1.0 tags. The only difference between ID3v1.1 and ID3v1.0 is that the former can additionally store a track number. Because most players are capable of ID3v1.1 tags, it is recommended to enable this option.

: '''Additionally write ID3V2 tags, using a padding of X kB'''
:: ''(Default: enabled/4, '''Recommended: enabled/4''')''

With this option enabled, EAC writes ID3v2 (ID3v2.3) tags to the encoded files (in addition to the ID3v1 tags). Because ID3v2 tags have a lot advantages over ID3v1 tags (e.g. unicode support) and are supported by most players, it is recommended to enable this option.

As ID3v2 tags are usually placed in front of a file, there may be a problem with altering or adding tags once the file is written. If tags are added or existing tags are becoming bigger, the ID3 chunk in a file will need some more space. In the worst case, the whole audio file has to be rewritten, which may be time consuming. This is where padding comes into play. When using padding, some additional space is added to the file while encoding to store such added or growing tags. In this case, the file does not have to be rewrittten completely, only this additional padding space is used when tags are added or altered. This makes adding/altering tags a lot more convenient and faster. The only disadvantage of padding is that the encoded files are a little bigger. EAC suggests a padding size of 4 KB. This means that every encoded file will be 4 KB bigger in size compared to a file which does not use padding. So if it is likely that you change or add some tags after the file has been created, then you should leave this option at 4 KB (or fit it your needs). If saving space (e.g. for mobile usage) is more important for you, then you can set this setting to 0 KB.

: '''Use ID3V2.4.0 tags instead of ID3V2.3.0 tags'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

ID3v2.4 is the latest development of this standard and has a few advantages over ID3v2.3 (e.g. allows usage of UTF-8 encoding). But there seems to be a bug in EAC that no ID3v2.4 can be written. Actually, when this option is enabled, EAC does not write any ID3v2 tags at all (not even ID3v2.3). Therefore it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use track format xx/xx in ID3V2 tags (e.g. 01/16)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

ID3v1 is only able to store the track number itself (e.g. "05"). With ID3v2 it is possible to store also the number of total tracks (e.g. "05/15"). If you wish to keep this information with your files, leave this option enabled.

: '''Construction of filenames from ID3 tags'''
:: ''(Default: %T - %A)''

This option specifies how filenames are constructed from ID3 tags when using the rename feature of EAC (''Tools'' -> ''Rename From ID3 Tags...''). You can use placeholder to build up the filename.

=External links=
* [http://www.sonicspot.com/guide/wavefiles.html The Sonic Spot: Wave File Format]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resource_Interchange_File_Format Wikipedia: Resource Interchange File Format]
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/support/faq/ EAC FAQ (placeholders for command-line options)]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclic_redundancy_check Wikipedia: Cyclic redundancy check]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Id3 Wikipedia: ID3]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC Compression Options (Legacy)

2008-01-24T15:59:55Z

Exec:

In the '''compression options dialog''' in [[EAC]] (shortcut: F11) all options can be found regarding the compression of music files. Here EAC's behavior when clicking on the ''MP3'' Button in the main window or items in the ''Action'' menu (and then starting a ''compressed'' action) are specified.

Note that many options are dependent on the codec or external compressor (encoder). So often no clear recommendation can be given. It is just important that you understand what these settings do and how they possibly change the behavior of EAC and/or the codec/external compressor.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''

=Waveform=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_Waveform.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''compression options''', '''Waveform''' tab]]
This tab offers settings to select a codec installed on your system and the appropriate options to compress [[WAV]] files. When you want to use an external compressor, then these options are rather unimportant (see the tab ''External Compression'').

Note that all options are greyed out here if ''Use external program for compression'' in the ''External Compression'' tab is ticked.

: '''Wave format'''

In this drop down box all codecs installed on your system are listed. When new codecs are installed which can compress WAV files, they should show up in this list. The codec to choose depends on what should be achieved with the compression (sample format, compression ratio, etc.).

: '''Sample format'''

With this option a sample format (sample rate, resolution, mono/stereo) can be chosen. Which options are available here depends on the codec selected at the ''Wave format'' option (e.g. some codecs only support 4 bit resolution). To keep the same sample format as a CD, ''44,100 kHz; 16 Bit'' has to be selected.

: '''Add ID3 tag'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Some formats (e.g. [[MP3]]) support [[ID3|ID3 tags]]. When this option is enabled, EAC will add these tags to the compressed files (only if the file format supports ID3 tags).

: '''Do not write WAV header to file'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

For playback of some file formats (e.g. MP3), Windows can use a codec designated for WAV playback. In this case, the file should have a WAV header according to the [http://www.sonicspot.com/guide/wavefiles.html WAV specification] (standard [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resource_Interchange_File_Format RIFF] (Resource Interchange File Format) file format structure). This way, it may be possible to play file formats with a program that normally can only read WAV files.

On the other hand, files which are not WAV files should usually not contain a WAV file header. So for other (non-WAV) files, this option should be enabled. Therefore a file extension for headerless files also has to be specified (see option below).

: '''File extension for header files'''
:: ''(Default: .raw)''

When the ''Do not write WAV header to file'' option is enabled, a file extension of the compressed files can be specified here (e.g. ''.mp3'' for MP3 files). If the above option is disabled, this setting gets greyed out automatically.

: '''Quality setting'''
:: ''(Default: High quality (slow), '''Recommended: High quality (slow)''')''

Some codecs support a quality setting to choose between a higher quality of the output files or faster encoding speed. If quality is the only matter, leave this option at the default, which is ''High quality (slow)''.

=External Compression=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_External_Compression.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC '''compression options''', '''External Compression''' tab]]
In this tab, all options for external compressors can be configured. As all settings are highly dependent on the particular compressor, most settings are only described here because often no clear recommendations can be given.

There are also a few articles with details about how to configure EAC to use particular encoders:
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_FLAC EAC and FLAC]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Lame EAC and LAME]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Monkey%27s_Audio EAC and Monkey's Audio]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Musepack EAC and Musepack]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Ogg_Vorbis EAC and OGG Vorbis]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_WavPack EAC and WavPack]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_TAK EAC and TAK]

: '''Use external program for compression'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

To use an external compressor, this setting has to be enabled. Otherwise all the options in this tab are greyed out.

: '''Parameter passing scheme'''

EAC comes with a few presets concerning external compressors and the required parameter passing scheme which can be selected with this option (e.g. the ''Bit rate'' box will show all available options after a particular compressor was chosen here). But in general, the capabilities of EAC in passing parameters to external compressors are limited. To be not bound to EAC's capabilities, you can use the ''Additional command-line options'' for additional parameter passing. When doing so, all these additional command-line options have a higher priority than other settings in this tab (only one exception with the option ''Add ID3 tag'' - see below). For example, when you specify a particular bit rate by additional command-line option, then the ''Bit rate'' setting will not have an effect anymore. Also a file extension has to be specified with the option ''Use file extension'' when a user defined encoder is used.

The usual approach is setting the ''Parameter passing scheme'' to ''User Defined Encoder'' and specifying all the encoding options by using the ''Additional command-line options'' only.

But note that the following settings in this tab are ignored when ''User Defined Encoder'' is selected and no placeholders are used in the ''Additional command-line options'' to explicitly state the usage of these options (more information can be found in the decription to the particular settings):
* ''Bit rate'' (unless specified with the <code>%r</code> placeholder in the ''Additional command-line options'')
* ''Quality settings'' (unless the placeholders <code>%h...%h</code> and <code>%l...%l</code> are used in the ''Additional command-line options'')
* ''Use CRC check'' (unless the <code>%c</code> placeholder is used in the ''Additional command-line options'')

: '''Use file extentsion'''

When chosen the entry ''User Defined Encoder'' on the setting ''Parameter passing scheme'', a file extension has to be specified here. This should be the extension of the encoded file type (e.g. ".flac" when using a [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Flac FLAC] encoder).

: '''Program, including path, used for compression'''

The absolute path to the program used for compression. This may be an .exe or a .dll file (e.g. "C:\Program Files\LAME\lame.exe"). By clicking on the ''Browse...'' button, this path can be chosen by a file dialog.

: '''Additional command-line options'''

Here additional parameters for the external compressor can be specified. All additional parameters entered here have a higher priority than other options in this tab (e.g. you can override the ''Bit rate'' setting by specifying a bit rate via command-line). The only exception of this is the ''Add ID3 tag'' option (see below).

To configure the additional command-line options, you can use the following placeholders (taken from the [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/support/faq/ EAC FAQ]):

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! placeholder
! meaning
|-
| %s
| Source filename
|-
| %d
| Destination filename
|-
| %h...%h
| Text "..." only when ''High quality'' selected
|-
| %l...%l
| Text "..." only when ''Low quality'' selected
|-
| %c...%c
| Text "..." only when ''CRC checksum'' selected
|-
| %r
| Bitrate ("32".."320") as chosen in the ''Bit rate'' option
|-
| %a
| CD artist
|-
| %g
| CD title
|-
| %t
| Track title
|-
| %y
| Year
|-
| %n
| Track number
|-
| %m
| MP3 music genre
|-
| %o
| Original filename (without temporary renaming)
|-
| %e
| Comment (as selected in EAC)
|-
| %b
| CRC of extracted track
|-
| %f
| freedb ID
|-
| %x
| Number of tracks on album
|}

So an exemplary command-line could look like this ([[LAME]]):
<pre>-V 0 --vbr-new --ta "%a" --tt "%t" --tl "%g" --tg "%m" --ty "%y" --tn "%n" --tc "%e" %s %d</pre>

As you can see, the command-line options of LAME (e.g. <code>-V 0</code>, <code>--ta</code>, <code>--tt</code>, etc.) are used in conjunction with the EAC placeholders (e.g. <code>%a</code>, <code>%t</code>, etc.) to control LAME only by this command-line.

: '''Bit rate'''

What is shown in this dropdown box depends on the ''Parameter passing scheme'' selected and specifies the bit rate/quality settings of the external compressor.

Note that this option does not have any effect if the bit rate got specified via the ''Additional command-line options'' unless the <code>%r</code> parameter was specified there (see above).

: '''Quality setting'''
:: ''(Default: High quality, '''Recommended: High quality''')''

Many encoders offer the choice between better quality or faster encoding speed. This option is designated to choose between these two settings, but the precise behavior depends on what is selected on the ''Parameter passing scheme'':

If ''User Defined Encoder'' is chosen, this option does not have an effect unless the <code>%h...%h</code> and <code>%l...%l</code> parameters are used in the ''Additional command-line options'' (see below). When any other ''Parameter passing scheme'' is used, this setting is reflected on the particular encoder. When using LAME for instance, ''High quality'' corresponds to the <code>-h</code> switch, whereas ''Low quality'' uses the <code>-f</code> switch (in this case, these switches specify the "Noise shaping and psycho acoustic algorithms", means choice between quality and encoding speed).
So when you opt for the best possible quality when using another ''Parameter passing scheme'' then ''User Defined Encoder'', make sure ''High quality'' is selected.

As already mentioned above, with this setting it is also possible to configure the ''Additional command-line option'' even further: With the placeholders <code>%h...%h</code> and <code>%l...%l</code> you can specify two different settings for the external compressor which can be controlled by this option. The following example (simplified) shows how to use this feature (again with LAME):

<pre>%h -V 0 %s %d %h %l -V 5 %s %d %l</pre>

In this case, if the ''High quality'' option is chosen, then then LAME will encode with <code>-V 0</code>, otherwise with <code>-V 5</code> when ''Low quality'' is selected.

: '''Delete WAV after compression'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If this setting is enabled, EAC automatically delets the extracted WAV file after compression. If you do not need these files (of course the compressed files are kept) after extraction/compression, leave this option enabled.

: '''Use CRC check'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some encoders have the ability to store a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclic_redundancy_check CRC] checksum (cyclic redundancy check) in the resulting (compressed) file. This might be used then to check the consistency of this file during playback. But enabling this CRC check has two major drawbacks: First, this will add 16 bits (the CRC value) on every frame of the encoded file and will possibly increase the file size considerably. Second, many encoders do not support this feature very well because of calculating wrong CRC checksums. So usually players will simply ignore this information. This option also has no effect at all when selected ''User Defined Encoder'' at the ''Parameter passing scheme''. Thus having more disadvantages, it is generally recommended to disable this option regardless of the encoder used.

: '''Add ID3 tag'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When this option is enabled, EAC writes ID3 tags to the compressed files if the file type supports ID3 tags (e.g. when encoding to FLAC, this option will not have any effect, because FLAC uses [[Vorbis|vorbis]] tags and not ID3). The settings used (version of ID3, padding, etc.) are determined in the ''ID3 Tag'' tab. Another possibility to specify ID3 tagging is to use the external compressor itself to tag the resulting files. This would be done via the ''Additional command-line options''. But note that when this option is enabled, these tagging instructions via command-line do not have any effect, because EAC just overrides the tags written by the encoder.

Generally, it is recommended to disable this option in EAC and let the encoder write the ID3 tags. This way the full tagging abilities of the encoder can be used.

: '''Check for external programs return code'''
:: ''(Default: disbaled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this setting is enabled, EAC checks the return code of an external compressor. When the external compressor returns an error code (e.g. because of a wrong command-line parameter was used), EAC shows this error message in a dialog box. So it is recommended to enable this option to notice any errors the encoder returns.

Note that there may be some external compressors returning codes which EAC wrongly interprets as error code. If you experience such problems, try disabling this option.

=Offset=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_Offset.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC '''compression options''', '''Offset''' tab]]
This tab offers options regarding offset correction during encoding/decoding and the ID3 tag comment field.

Note: The offset mentioned here has nothing to do with a drive offset and therefore should not be mistaken.

: '''Use Offset Correction for encoding and decoding'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some encoders will have an offset when encoding. This means that at the beginning of a track they often add some silence, whereas a few samples could be missing at the end. When decoding again, this could result in some unwanted gaps. This options offers now the opportunity to correct this encoding/decoding offset so that the original file can be reconstructed (at least concerning correct beginning/end of a track; with [[Lossy|lossy]] formats the original file can not be reconstructed completely). The point behind this option is that is possible that there is such an offset between the codec which is used for encoding (the actual codec) and the other one used for decoding (default installed codec). An example would be using LAME for MP3 encoding and the Fraunhofer codec for decoding. In this case, this option would be useful.

So when you decode your encoded files and experience some unwanted gaps in the decoded files, then you should try to enable this option and configure it accordingly (see below). In all other cases, leave this option disabled (especially when you encode and decode with the same encoder anyway).

: '''Sample offset'''
:: ''(Default: 0)''

When enabling the option ''Use Offset Correction for encoding and decoding'', a sample offset has to be entered here. With a click on the button ''Detect Offset...'' the correct offset can be recognized automatically.

: '''Use LAME command-line encoder/decoder for decoding MP3 files'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

This option is usually greyed out. To make it available, a LAME executable (lame.exe) has to be placed in the EAC directory. This has to be done manually.

If this option is enabled then, LAME is used automatically to decode MP3 files (''Tools'' -> ''Decompress...''). This overrides EAC's behavior which uses the Fraunhofer codec for MP3 decoding by default.

: '''Construction of the ID3 tag comment field on extraction'''

When the option ''Add ID3 tag'' in the ''External Compression'' tab is enabled, this setting specifies what information should be stored in the comment field. When EAC is not used to tag compressed files and tagging is completely done via command-line parameters, this setting specifies the contents of the "%e" placeholder which can be used in the command-line then. The following options are available:

* '''Write "Track <tracknumber>" into ID3 tag comment field''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Tracknumbers are written into the comment fields.
* '''Write CRC checksums into ID3 tag comment field''': CRC checksums are written into the comment fields.
* '''Write freedb ID into ID3 tag comment field''': freedb IDs are written into the comment fields.
* '''Write following text into ID3 tag comment field''': A user defined text is written into the comment fields.

=ID3 Tag=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_ID3_Tag.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC '''compression options''', '''ID3 Tag''' tab]]
This tab offers some options regarding the ID3 tagging capabilities of EAC. Note that the option ''Add ID3 tag'' in the ''External Compression'' tab has to be enabled for all these settings to have an effect.

: '''Use ID3V1.1 tags instead of ID3V1.0 tags'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, ID3v1.1 tags are used instead of ID3v1.0 tags. The only difference between ID3v1.1 and ID3v1.0 is that the former can additionally store a track number. Because most players are capable of ID3v1.1 tags, it is recommended to enable this option.

: '''Additionally write ID3V2 tags, using a padding of X kB'''
:: ''(Default: enabled/4, '''Recommended: enabled/4''')''

With this option enabled, EAC writes ID3v2 (ID3v2.3) tags to the encoded files (in addition to the ID3v1 tags). Because ID3v2 tags have a lot advantages over ID3v1 tags (e.g. unicode support) and are supported by most players, it is recommended to enable this option.

As ID3v2 tags are usually placed in front of a file, there may be a problem with altering or adding tags once the file is written. If tags are added or existing tags are becoming bigger, the ID3 chunk in a file will need some more space. In the worst case, the whole audio file has to be rewritten, which may be time consuming. This is where padding comes into play. When using padding, some additional space is added to the file while encoding to store such added or growing tags. In this case, the file does not have to be rewrittten completely, only this additional padding space is used when tags are added or altered. This makes adding/altering tags a lot more convenient and faster. The only disadvantage of padding is that the encoded files are a little bigger. EAC suggests a padding size of 4 KB. This means that every encoded file will be 4 KB bigger in size compared to a file which does not use padding. So if it is likely that you change or add some tags after the file has been created, then you should leave this option at 4 KB (or fit it your needs). If saving space (e.g. for mobile usage) is more important for you, then you can set this setting to 0 KB.

: '''Use ID3V2.4.0 tags instead of ID3V2.3.0 tags'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

ID3v2.4 is the latest development of this standard and has a few advantages over ID3v2.3 (e.g. allows usage of UTF-8 encoding). But there seems to be a bug in EAC that no ID3v2.4 can be written. Actually, when this option is enabled, EAC does not write any ID3v2 tags at all (not even ID3v2.3). Therefore it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use track format xx/xx in ID3V2 tags (e.g. 01/16)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

ID3v1 is only able to store the track number itself (e.g. "05"). With ID3v2 it is possible to store also the number of total tracks (e.g. "05/15"). If you wish to keep this information with your files, leave this option enabled.

: '''Construction of filenames from ID3 tags'''
:: ''(Default: %T - %A)''

This option specifies how filenames are constructed from ID3 tags when using the rename feature of EAC (''Tools'' -> ''Rename From ID3 Tags...''). You can use placeholder to build up the filename.

=External links=
* [http://www.sonicspot.com/guide/wavefiles.html The Sonic Spot: Wave File Format]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resource_Interchange_File_Format Wikipedia: Resource Interchange File Format]
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/support/faq/ EAC FAQ (placeholders for command-line options)]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclic_redundancy_check Wikipedia: Cyclic redundancy check]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Id3 Wikipedia: ID3]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC Compression Options (Legacy)

2008-01-23T14:12:30Z

Exec: New page: In the '''compression options dialog''' in EAC (shortcut: F11) all options can be found regarding the compression of music files. Here EAC's behavior when clicking on the ''MP3'' Butto...

In the '''compression options dialog''' in [[EAC]] (shortcut: F11) all options can be found regarding the compression of music files. Here EAC's behavior when clicking on the ''MP3'' Button in the main window or items in the ''Action'' menu (and then starting a ''compressed'' action) are specified.

Note that many options are dependent on the codec or external compressor (encoder). So often no clear recommendation can be given. It is just important that you understand what these settings do and how they possibly change the behavior of EAC and/or the codec/external compressor.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''

=Waveform=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_Waveform.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''compression options''', '''Waveform''' tab]]
This tab offers settings to select a codec installed on your system and the appropriate options to compress [[WAV]] files. When you want to use an external compressor, then these options are rather unimportant (see the tab ''External Compression'').

Note that all options are greyed out here if ''Use external program for compression'' in the ''External Compression'' tab is ticked.

: '''Wave format'''

In this drop down box all codecs installed on your system are listed. When new codecs are installed which can compress WAV files, they should show up in this list. The codec to choose depends on what should be achieved with the compression (sample format, compression ratio, etc.).

: '''Sample format'''

With this option a sample format (sample rate, resolution, mono/stereo) can be chosen. Which options are available here depends on the codec selected at the ''Wave format'' option (e.g. some codecs only support 4 bit resolution). To keep the same sample format as a CD, ''44,100 kHz; 16 Bit'' has to be selected.

: '''Add ID3 tag'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Some formats (e.g. [[MP3]]) support [[ID3|ID3 tags]]. When this option is enabled, EAC will add these tags to the compressed files (only if the file format supports ID3 tags).

: '''Do not write WAV header to file'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

For playback of some file formats (e.g. MP3), Windows can use a codec designated for WAV playback. In this case, the file should have a WAV header according to the [http://www.sonicspot.com/guide/wavefiles.html WAV specification] (standard [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resource_Interchange_File_Format RIFF] (Resource Interchange File Format) file format structure). This way, it may be possible to play file formats with a program that normally can only read WAV files.

On the other hand, files which are not WAV files should usually not contain a WAV file header. So for other (non-WAV) files, this option should be enabled. Therefore a file extension for headerless files also has to be specified (see option below).

: '''File extension for header files'''
:: ''(Default: .raw)''

When the ''Do not write WAV header to file'' option is enabled, a file extension of the compressed files can be specified here (e.g. ''.mp3'' for MP3 files). If the above option is disabled, this setting gets greyed out automatically.

: '''Quality setting'''
:: ''(Default: High quality (slow), '''Recommended: High quality (slow)''')''

Some codecs support a quality setting to choose between a higher quality of the output files or faster encoding speed. If quality is the only matter, leave this option at the default, which is ''High quality (slow)''.

=External Compression=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_External_Compression.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC '''compression options''', '''External Compression''' tab]]
In this tab, all options for external compressors can be configured. As all settings are highly dependent on the particular compressor, most settings are only described here because often no clear recommendations can be given.

There are also a few articles with details about how to configure EAC to use particular encoders:
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_FLAC EAC and FLAC]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Lame EAC and LAME]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Monkey%27s_Audio EAC and Monkey's Audio]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Musepack EAC and Musepack]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_Ogg_Vorbis EAC and OGG Vorbis]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_WavPack EAC and WavPack]
* [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=EAC_and_TAK EAC and TAK]

: '''Use external program for compression'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

To use an external compressor, this setting has to be enabled. Otherwise all the options in this tab are greyed out.

: '''Parameter passing scheme'''

EAC comes with a few presets concerning external compressors and the required parameter passing scheme which can be selected with this option (e.g. the ''Bit rate'' box will show all available options after a particular compressor was chosen here). But in general, the capabilities of EAC in passing parameters to external compressors are limited. To be not bound to EAC's capabilities, you can use the ''Additional command-line options'' for additional parameter passing. When doing so, all these additional command-line options have a higher priority than other settings in this tab (only one exception with the option ''Add ID3 tag'' - see below). For example, when you specify a particular bit rate by additional command-line option, then the ''Bit rate'' setting will not have an effect anymore. Also a file extension has to be specified with the option ''Use file extension'' when a user defined encoder is used.

The usual approach is setting the ''Parameter passing scheme'' to ''User Defined Encoder'' and specifying all the encoding options by using the ''Additional command-line options'' only.

: '''Use file extentsion'''

When chosen the entry ''User Defined Encoder'' on the setting ''Parameter passing scheme'', a file extension has to be specified here. This should be the extension of the encoded file type (e.g. ".flac" when using a [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Flac FLAC] encoder).

: '''Program, including path, used for compression'''

The absolute path to the program used for compression. This may be an .exe or a .dll file (e.g. "C:\Program Files\LAME\lame.exe"). By clicking on the ''Browse...'' button, this path can be chosen by a file dialog.

: '''Additional command-line options'''

Here additional parameters for the external compressor can be specified. All additional parameters entered here have a higher priority than other options in this tab (e.g. you can override the ''Bit rate'' setting by specifying a bit rate via command-line). The only exception of this is the ''Add ID3 tag'' option (see below).

To configure the additional command-line options, you can use the following placeholders (taken from the [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/support/faq/ EAC FAQ]):

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! placeholder
! meaning
|-
| %s
| Source filename
|-
| %d
| Destination filename
|-
| %h…%h
| Text "..." only when ''High quality'' selected
|-
| %l…%l
| Text "..." only when ''Low quality'' selected
|-
| %c…%c
| Text "..." only when ''CRC checksum'' selected
|-
| %r
| Bitrate ("32".."320")
|-
| %a
| CD artist
|-
| %g
| CD title
|-
| %t
| Track title
|-
| %y
| Year
|-
| %n
| Track number
|-
| %m
| MP3 music genre
|-
| %o
| Original filename (without temporary renaming)
|-
| %e
| Comment (as selected in EAC)
|-
| %b
| CRC of extracted track
|-
| %f
| freedb ID
|-
| %x
| Number of tracks on album
|}

So an exemplary command-line could look like this ([[LAME]]):
<pre>-V 0 --vbr-new --ta "%a" --tt "%t" --tl "%g" --tg "%m" --ty "%y" --tn "%n" --tc "%e" %s %d</pre>

As you can see, the command-line options of LAME (e.g. <code>-V 0</code>, <code>--ta</code>, <code>--tt</code>, etc.) are used in conjunction with the EAC placeholders (e.g. <code>%a</code>, <code>%t</code>, etc.) to control LAME only by this command-line.

: '''Bit rate'''

What is shown in this dropdown box depends on the ''Parameter passing scheme'' selected and specifies the bit rate/quality settings of the external compressor. Note that this option does not have any effect if the bit rate got specified via the ''Additional command-line options''.

: '''Quality setting'''
:: ''(Default: High quality, '''Recommended: High quality''')''

Many encoders offer the choice between better quality or faster encoding speed. To achieve the best possible quality, make sure ''High quality'' is selected.

With this setting it is also possible to configure the ''Additional command-line option'' even further: With the placeholders <code>%h…%h</code> and <code>%l…%l</code> you can specify two different settings for the external compressor which can be controlled by this option. The following example (simplified) shows how to use this feature (again with LAME):

<pre>%h -V 0 %s %d %h %l -V 5 %s %d %l</pre>

If the ''High quality'' option is chosen, then then LAME will encode with <code>-V 0</code>, otherwise with <code>-V 5</code> when ''Low quality'' is selected.

: '''Delete WAV after compression'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If this setting is enabled, EAC automatically delets the extracted WAV file after compression. If you do not need these files (of course the compressed files are kept) after extraction/compression, leave this option enabled.

: '''Use CRC check'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some encoders have the ability to store a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclic_redundancy_check CRC] checksum (cyclic redundancy check) in the resulting (compressed) file. This might be used then to check the consistency of this file during playback. But enabling this CRC check has two major drawbacks: First, this will add 16 bits (the CRC value) on every frame of the encoded file and will possibly increase the file size considerably. Second, many encoders do not support this feature very well because of calculating wrong CRC checksums. So usually players will simply ignore this information. This option also has no effect at all when selected ''User Defined Encoder'' at the ''Parameter passing scheme''. Thus having more disadvantages, it is generally recommended to disable this option regardless of the encoder used.

: '''Add ID3 tag'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When this option is enabled, EAC writes ID3 tags to the compressed files if the file type supports ID3 tags (e.g. when encoding to FLAC, this option will not have any effect, because FLAC uses [[Vorbis|vorbis]] tags and not ID3). The settings used (version of ID3, padding, etc.) are determined in the ''ID3 Tag'' tab. Another possibility to specify ID3 tagging is to use the external compressor itself to tag the resulting files. This would be done via the ''Additional command-line options''. But note that when this option is enabled, these tagging instructions via command-line do not have any effect, because EAC just overrides the tags written by the encoder.

Generally, it is recommended to disable this option in EAC and let the encoder write the ID3 tags. This way the full tagging abilities of the encoder can be used.

: '''Check for external programs return code'''
:: ''(Default: disbaled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this setting is enabled, EAC checks the return code of an external compressor. When the external compressor returns an error code (e.g. because of a wrong command-line parameter was used), EAC shows this error message in a dialog box. So it is recommended to enable this option to notice any errors the encoder returns.

Note that there may be some external compressors returning codes which EAC wrongly interprets as error code. If you experience such problems, try disabling this option.

=Offset=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_Offset.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC '''compression options''', '''Offset''' tab]]
This tab offers options regarding offset correction during encoding/decoding and the ID3 tag comment field.

Note: The offset mentioned here has nothing to do with a drive offset and therefore should not be mistaken.

: '''Use Offset Correction for encoding and decoding'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some encoders will have an offset when encoding. This means that at the beginning of a track they often add some silence, whereas a few samples could be missing at the end. When decoding again, this could result in some unwanted gaps. This options offers now the opportunity to correct this encoding/decoding offset so that the original file can be reconstructed (at least concerning correct beginning/end of a track; with [[Lossy|lossy]] formats the original file can not be reconstructed completely). The point behind this option is that is possible that there is such an offset between the codec which is used for encoding (the actual codec) and the other one used for decoding (default installed codec). An example would be using LAME for MP3 encoding and the Fraunhofer codec for decoding. In this case, this option would be useful.

So when you decode your encoded files and experience some unwanted gaps in the decoded files, then you should try to enable this option and configure it accordingly (see below). In all other cases, leave this option disabled (especially when you encode and decode with the same encoder anyway).

: '''Sample offset'''
:: ''(Default: 0)''

When enabling the option ''Use Offset Correction for encoding and decoding'', a sample offset has to be entered here. With a click on the button ''Detect Offset...'' the correct offset can be recognized automatically.

: '''Use LAME command-line encoder/decoder for decoding MP3 files'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

This option is usually greyed out. To make it available, a LAME executable (lame.exe) has to be placed in the EAC directory. This has to be done manually.

If this option is enabled then, LAME is used automatically to decode MP3 files (''Tools'' -> ''Decompress...''). This overrides EAC's behavior which uses the Fraunhofer codec for MP3 decoding by default.

: '''Construction of the ID3 tag comment field on extraction'''

When the option ''Add ID3 tag'' in the ''External Compression'' tab is enabled, this setting specifies what information should be stored in the comment field. When EAC is not used to tag compressed files and tagging is completely done via command-line parameters, this setting specifies the contents of the "%e" placeholder which can be used in the command-line then. The following options are available:

* '''Write "Track <tracknumber>" into ID3 tag comment field''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Tracknumbers are written into the comment fields.
* '''Write CRC checksums into ID3 tag comment field''': CRC checksums are written into the comment fields.
* '''Write freedb ID into ID3 tag comment field''': freedb IDs are written into the comment fields.
* '''Write following text into ID3 tag comment field''': A user defined text is written into the comment fields.

=ID3 Tag=
[[Image:EAC_Compression_options_ID3_Tag.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC '''compression options''', '''ID3 Tag''' tab]]
This tab offers some options regarding the ID3 tagging capabilities of EAC. Note that the option ''Add ID3 tag'' in the ''External Compression'' tab has to be enabled for all these settings to have an effect.

: '''Use ID3V1.1 tags instead of ID3V1.0 tags'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, ID3v1.1 tags are used instead of ID3v1.0 tags. The only difference between ID3v1.1 and ID3v1.0 is that the former can additionally store a track number. Because most players are capable of ID3v1.1 tags, it is recommended to enable this option.

: '''Additionally write ID3V2 tags, using a padding of X kB'''
:: ''(Default: enabled/4, '''Recommended: enabled/4''')''

With this option enabled, EAC writes ID3v2 (ID3v2.3) tags to the encoded files (in addition to the ID3v1 tags). Because ID3v2 tags have a lot advantages over ID3v1 tags (e.g. unicode support) and are supported by most players, it is recommended to enable this option.

As ID3v2 tags are usually placed in front of a file, there may be a problem with altering or adding tags once the file is written. If tags are added or existing tags are becoming bigger, the ID3 chunk in a file will need some more space. In the worst case, the whole audio file has to be rewritten, which may be time consuming. This is where padding comes into play. When using padding, some additional space is added to the file while encoding to store such added or growing tags. In this case, the file does not have to be rewrittten completely, only this additional padding space is used when tags are added or altered. This makes adding/altering tags a lot more convenient and faster. The only disadvantage of padding is that the encoded files are a little bigger. EAC suggests a padding size of 4 KB. This means that every encoded file will be 4 KB bigger in size compared to a file which does not use padding. So if it is likely that you change or add some tags after the file has been created, then you should leave this option at 4 KB (or fit it your needs). If saving space (e.g. for mobile usage) is more important for you, then you can set this setting to 0 KB.

: '''Use ID3V2.4.0 tags instead of ID3V2.3.0 tags'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

ID3v2.4 is the latest development of this standard and has a few advantages over ID3v2.3 (e.g. allows usage of UTF-8 encoding). But there seems to be a bug in EAC that no ID3v2.4 can be written. Actually, when this option is enabled, EAC does not write any ID3v2 tags at all (not even ID3v2.3). Therefore it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use track format xx/xx in ID3V2 tags (e.g. 01/16)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

ID3v1 is only able to store the track number itself (e.g. "05"). With ID3v2 it is possible to store also the number of total tracks (e.g. "05/15"). If you wish to keep this information with your files, leave this option enabled.

: '''Construction of filenames from ID3 tags'''
:: ''(Default: %T - %A)''

This option specifies how filenames are constructed from ID3 tags when using the rename feature of EAC (''Tools'' -> ''Rename From ID3 Tags...''). You can use placeholder to build up the filename.

=External links=
* [http://www.sonicspot.com/guide/wavefiles.html The Sonic Spot: Wave File Format]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resource_Interchange_File_Format Wikipedia: Resource Interchange File Format]
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/support/faq/ EAC FAQ (placeholders for command-line options)]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclic_redundancy_check Wikipedia: Cyclic redundancy check]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Id3 Wikipedia: ID3]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC Options (Legacy)

2008-01-23T14:12:24Z

Exec:

The '''EAC options dialog''' (shortcut: F9) offers several options for configuring [[EAC]] in general without focussing on drive or compression settings.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''

=Extraction=
[[Image:EAC_options_Extraction.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Extraction''' tab]]
This tab includes settings for the extraction of audio CDs.

: '''Fill up missing offset samples with silence'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''
In the case the drive is not capable of overreading into the leadin/leadout or overreading is disabled in the [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]], it is possible that some samples will be missing in the resulting [[WAV]] files. Note that only the first or last track of a CD is affected, depending on the drive having a negative or positive read offset. With this option enabled, these missing (offset) samples are filled with silence. This way, the correct length of the affected WAV files is maintained to get as close to the according original CD tracks as possible. If this option is disabled, some samples will possibly be missing in the resulting WAV files and it is likely that [[AccurateRip]] will report tracks as not accurately ripped (wrong checksums may be calculated because of these missing samples).

For this setting to work properly, the offset correction has to be configured correctly, so that EAC knows how many silent samples have to be added to which track (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]).

: '''No use of null samples for CRC calculations'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, null samples (silence) at the beginning and the end of a track will not be counted for CRC checksums. When this option is enabled and a track has silence at the beginning/end, this could lead to the same CRC checksums, even with different (or even wrong) drive offset values (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]). So when the drive offset is configured correctly, this option should be disabled to get comparable CRC checksums.

: '''Syncronize between tracks'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When ripping adjacent tracks of a CD and this option is enabled, EAC synchronizes between these tracks. This is important to avoid pops or gaps between tracks, so this option should be enabled.

: '''Delete leading and trailing silent blocks'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

If a track contains silence at the beginning and/or the end, EAC delets these silent blocks when this option is enabled. As this would possibly result in WAV files which are not identical to the original tracks, you should leave this option disabled.

: '''Skip track extraction on read or sync errors'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will skip the extraction of the current track if a read or synchronisation error occurs. If there is a read/sync error during extraction, the rip can not be guaranteed to be accurate anymore. This way, you have to decide what is more important for you: If you think that a not accurate rip is better than no rip at all, then you can leave this option disabled. Due to EAC's advanced reading features, it is possible that there are no audible artifacts. In such a case, you should check the log file where all suspicious positions are listed. Listen for yourself if you can hear any artifacts. If not, this may be ok for you.
On the other hand, if an accurate rip is most important, then this option may be enabled so that EAC skips the track when the first read/sync error occurs. When this happens, the first thing to try is to clean the CD and give it another try. When this does not work either, the only solution would be to get another (scratch free) copy of the CD and try the extraction with this one.

: '''Skip track extraction after duration longer than X times realtime'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Due to EAC's advanced reading features, the reading procedure can last very long, especially on scatched CDs (in extreme cases this can last several hours). When this option is enabled and the ripping process takes longer than X times realtime, the affected track is skipped. It is recommended to leave this option disabled because it is likely that EAC can rip such a track even if this takes a long time.

: '''After each X mins of extraction, cool down the drive for Y mins'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

As already mentioned, the extraction of scatched CDs/tracks can last very long. This could possibly stress the drive used for extraction because of a lot of movement of the laser unit. So the whole procedure could also heat up the drive. This may decrease the reading abilities of this drive temporarily. So when you notice that your ripping drive gets unusually hot during difficult and long extraction processes, then it may be a good idea to enable this option. Otherwise you should leave this option disabled, because this will possibly lead to longer extraction times.

: '''Lock drive tray during extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC makes sure that the CD tray is not opened accidentally while ripping. Otherwise this will always result in an aborted extraction process, so leave this option enabled.

: '''Extractions and compression priority'''
:: ''(Default: Normal, '''Recommended: High''')''

With this setting the process priority of EAC and any external compressor during the extraction/compression is set. Setting this option to ''high'' could result in a little shorter ripping times. On the other hand, this could make other applications work "choppy". So if you plan to use other programs during ripping, leave this option as it is (''normal''), otherwise you can set it to ''high''.

: '''Error recovery priority'''
:: ''(Default: Medium, '''Recommended: High/Medium''')''

This setting specifies how many rereads will be done in a case of reading errors. Generally, if reading errors occur, EAC rereads these frames until eight out of 16 retries are identical ([http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/]). The ''error recovery priority'' now specifies, how many of these 16 retires are done (''low''/''medium''/''high'': 1/3/5). A visual representation can be found in the extraction status window: the number of red bars shown for error correction.

So changing this option to ''high'' lets EAC read bad frames more often. This could lead to a better error correction, but also increases the chance that errors slip through undetcted. This is beacuse EAC will assume that a frame was read correctly if there were eight matching reads (of 16) on that frame. If there is a consistent error, EAC is not able to recognize this. So to increase the chance that no errors going unreported, this setting could be left at ''medium''.

Because of the way EAC behaves, there can not be given a clear recommendation. You have to choose between better chance of detecting errors (''medium''), or chance of better error correction (''high'').

=General=
[[Image:EAC_options_General.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''General''' tab]]
In this tab, general EAC options are included. These do not affect the quality or the accuracy of the results produced by EAC. So on most options there is no clear recommendation possible. Just adjust these options as you need them.

: '''Use alternate CD play routines'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is only important for playing an audio CD using EAC. If it is enabled, EAC sends the audio data to the soundcard digitally, so no cable between the drive and the soundcard is needed. Otherwise, when this option is disabled, only the cable between drive and soundcard is used. Therefore, if such a cable is not installed and this option gets disabled, you will not be able to play a CD using EAC at all.

: '''Disable 'CD Autostart' for audio and data CDs while EAC running'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, the autostart for all drives is disabled while EAC is running. That means that no popups or media players are started automatically which could disturb EAC while ripping.

: '''On unknown CDs'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When a CD unknown to EAC is inserted in the drive and this setting is enabled, EAC can take the following actions:
* '''automatically access online freedb database''': EAC tries to find CD information in the [[freedb]] online database automatically. For this option to work, an e-mail adress has to be specified in the [[EAC freedb/Database Options|freedb/Database Options]].
* '''open CD information dialog''': With this option enabled, a pop up is presented to the user where the CD information can be inserted manually.

: '''Display times using frames'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option decides about how times are displayed in the main window. When this option is disabled, 1/100 seconds are used. Enable this setting so that all times are displayed in frames (1 frame equals 1/75 seconds). Time information in frames is generally more native to CDs, whereas the display of 1/100 seconds is likely to be rounded and not really exact. So it is recommended to leave this option enabled.

: '''Ask before overwriting files'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

EAC will always ask if existing files should be overwritten. To be sure that no important files are overwritten, this option should be left enabled.

: '''Correct bug of wrong filename order in Windows multiple file dialog'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

The Windows file selection box sometimes has a strange behavior to exchange the first an last track when multiple files are selected. Leave this option enabled to make sure EAC automatically corrects the file order.

: '''Show status dialog after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Enabling this setting lets EAC show a status dialog after extraction. Because this dialog can give you some important information, you should leave this option enabled.

: '''Beep after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If enabled, EAC will beep (PC speaker) when extraction finished. When you do not want to sit in front of your PC while ripping, this option may come in handy.

: '''Eject CD after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will eject the CD automatically when the extraction finished. When you move away from your PC while ripping, it may be a good idea to leave this option disabled.

: '''When using the power down feature'''

This setting controls what should happen if you tick the power down feature in the extraction dialog. Two options are avaiable:
* '''power down computer''' ''(Default: enabled)'': The computer is shut down after extraction has finished.
* '''restart computer''': The computer gets restarted after extraction.

: '''wait for external compressors'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option specifies if the shutdown or restart process should wait for any active external compressors when the power down feature in the extraction dialog is ticked. You should always leave this option enabled, because otherwise any external compressor can not finish its work before the shutdown/restart process.

: '''EAC language selection'''

This option controls the language settings of EAC. If there is a language setting available which equals the language of the operating system, this language is automatically selected at the first start of EAC.

=Tools=
[[Image:EAC_options_Tools.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Tools''' tab]]
Here the generation of [[Cue_sheet|CUE sheets]], playlists and log files is configured. There are also settings available affecting the behaviour of an external compressor.

For more information on EAC and CUE sheets, see [[EAC_and_Cue_Sheets|EAC and CUE sheets]].

: '''Retrieve UPC/ISRC codes in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When generating CUE sheets for a CD and this option is enabled, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code UPC] (Universal Product Code = barcode) and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc ISRC] (International Standard Recording Code) codes are extracted from the CD and added to the CUE file. It can be quite time comsuming extracting these information from a CD and some CDs do not contain such information at all. But to collect as much information as possible from the CD, this option should be enabled (archiving purposes).

Note that this feature of EAC is reported not to work correctly with some drives. If you plan to let EAC create CUE sheets with UPC/ISRC, you should test this feature with your drive. Just open a generated CUE sheet with a text reader (e.g. Notepad) and check the information stated.

: '''Use CD-Text information in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If your drive supports CD-text, you should leave this option enabled. This will add TITLE and PERFORMER tags to the generated CUE sheet.

: '''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC will automatically create an .m3u playlist file which contains all selected tracks for this extraction. This comes in handy if you use your PC as primary source where most media players can use these playlist files.

: '''Write m3u playlist with extended information'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is greyed out until you enable the option ''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'' (see above). If enabled, EAC adds extended information (length, title and more) to the playlist file. All additional information are added as comments. If your media player can not handle these comments correctly, you should disable this option, otherwise leave it enabled.

: '''Automatically write status report after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC automatically writes a log file after extraction in the same directory as the extracted files. To be able to comprehend the extraction process of a certain CD, it may be a good idea to save these log files. However, even if this option is disabled, it is still possible to save a log file from the status dialog after extraction. Of course, then the corresponding option also has to be enabled in the ''General'' tab (''Show status dialog after extraction'').

: '''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this setting enabled, EAC starts an external compressor as soon as the first track was extracted and therefore the extraction and compressing processes are running simultaneously. Of course, this could lead to a time saving, but also can lead to some problems: it is more likely that errors during extraction/compressing occur on older PCs. So in general, you should leave this option disabled unless you have a dual/multi core CPU.

: '''Use X simultaneous external compressor thread(s)'''
:: ''(Default: 1)''

This option is greyed out until the option above (''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'') is enabled. It controls the number of simultaneous external compressors used by EAC. The more compressors are used simultaneously, the more likely are the problems mentioned above with parallel extraction and compressing. Again, if you have a dual/multi core CPU, it is fine to use this option.

: '''Do not open external compressor window'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC does not open an external compressor window. Because this way you are not able to see the status of the external compressor (and maybe error messages), this option should be left disbaled.

: '''Submit drive features after detection (but ask for permission)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Leving this option enabled, EAC will ask if it should submit the drive features (mostly offset values) after these were detected, e.g. by the wizard. In order to help other people who are not able to determine their drive's features, it is recommended to enable this setting. You can cancel the transfer of any data anyway, because EAC will always ask you before sending any data.

: '''Activate beginner mode, disable all advanced features'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When in beginner mode, EAC hides many options important for achieving the best possible results, so make sure that this option is disabled.

=Normalize=
[[Image:EAC_options_Normalize.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Normalize''' tab]]
This tab contains all settings regarding normalization of extracted music files.

: '''Normalize'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Normalizing is the process to change the volume of a track to a given maximum loudness and is mostly used to get all tracks of a CD or compilation to the same loundess level. Of course, this would change the original track. Because of this, make sure that this option stays disabled.

: '''Normalize to X%'''
:: ''(Default: 98%)''

This option is greyed out until the above option (''Normalize'') is enabled and represents the level of normalization. 100% would be maximum loudness, but to avoid clipping, you should set it a few percents lower (e.g. 98%).

: '''But only if peak level is smaller than X% or greater than Y%'''
:: ''(Default: 85%/99%)''

With this option you can select which tracks will be normalized. All tracks which are out of the range (smaller than X, or greater than Y) are normalized, all others will not be changed.

=Filename=
[[Image:EAC_options_Filename.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Filename''' tab]]
The resulting file names and directory structures can be configured in this tab.

: '''Naming scheme'''

A naming scheme for the resulting files can be specified here. There are many placeholders stated by the option dialog which can be used to build up a naming/directory scheme (for a directory structure, just use "\", as known from the windows explorer). The only limitation is that no absolute file paths (e.g. "C:\Music\%T") can be constructed. The reason is that when starting the extraction of a disc, EAC will either ask by a dialog box where the resulting files will be stored, or will use the predefined directory (depends on what option is enabled as ''Standard directory for extraction'' in the ''Directories'' tab). The directory stated in this dialog defines the absolute path. By putting together this path and the naming scheme stated in this tab, the concrete filenames will be generated.

: '''Use various artist naming scheme'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled and the ''Various Artists'' option box is ticked (in the EAC main window), the naming scheme stated below is used. If you want different naming schemes for one/various artist CDs, then you should enable this setting. The placeholders are the same as stated above (''Naming scheme'').

: '''Replace spaces by underscores'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Enabling this option will EAC let replace spaces in filenames by underscores.

=Catalog=
[[Image:EAC_options_Catalog.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Catalog''' tab]]
Catalog options which are applied when creating catalog samples (''Action'' -> ''Catalog Selected Tracks'') can be configured here. With this function, EAC can produce short samples of each track of a disc.

: '''Catalog file length (in seconds)'''

Defines the length of each catalog sample track in seconds.

: '''Catalog start position in a track (in seconds)'''

Specifies the start position of the catalog sample in a track in seconds. As many music titles are not very significant from the beginning of a track, it may be a good idea to let the catalog samples start somewhere in the middle of a track.

: '''Fade in length (in seconds)'''

If you want that the catalog sample tracks are faded in, enter a value greater than 0.

: '''Fade out length (in seconds)'''

The same as stated above (''Fade in length (in seconds)''), but concerning fade out.

=Directories=
[[Image:EAC_options_Directories.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Directories''' tab]]
The directory where the extracted music files will be placed can be configured here.

: '''Standard directory for extraction'''

This option decides whether the user is asked where to save the resulting files every time an extraction is started, or if a standard directory should be used.

* '''Ask every time (default showing last used directory)''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Any time an extraction starts, a dialog box appears asking for the directory to be used. This directory will be saved and used as default the next time this dialog box appears.
* '''Use this directory''': When always extracting in the same directory anyway, there is no need of the dialog box stated above. In this case, a predefined directory can be specified here.

=Write=
[[Image:EAC_options_Write.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Write''' tab]]
Contains all settings for writing audio CDs with EAC.

: '''Upper all characters (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

If this option is enabled, all characters contained in the CD-text are transformed to upper case. On some CD players, this may look a little better than text in upper-/lower case.

: '''Include artist in the CD-Text track entry (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some CD players will only show the track information of the CD-text. In such a case, the artist information will not be shown. If your CD player acts this way, you should enable this option so that the artist is swapped over into the track information. As an example "Bohemian Rhapsody" will become "Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody".

: '''Disable copy protection flag on adding audio files to the layout editor by default'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When enabled, the copy protection flag will be disabled by default for all added tracks in the write layout editor. Because you can still disable the copy protection flag in the write layout editor when needed (''Layout'' -> ''Edit selected indices...'' -> untick the ''Copy protected'' checkbox), it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use CDRDAO for writing in the EAC layout editor'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When writing CDs with EAC, there are two possibilities: On the one hand, EAC can start an external application called [[CDRDAO]] to write the CD. The general advantage of CDRDAO is the compatibility with many (and even older) CD-R drives. On the other hand, EAC can use its internal writing routines. These are said wo be a bit more stable (as they are internal), but also do not support that many drives.

Note that older versions of EAC came with two different installer packages: one with CDRDAO, the other one without. If you installed the version without CDRDAO, this option was greyed out. But since version 0.99 prebeta 3, there is only one installer available, which contains CDRDAO.

For more information on CDRDAO, see the [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage].

=Interface=
[[Image:EAC_options_Interface.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Interface''' tab]]
In this tab, the interface used for the communication between EAC and the CD drive can be confuigured.

: '''Use of SCSI interface'''
:: ''(Default: Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP, '''Recommended: Installed external ASPI interface''')''

An [[ASPI]] (Advanced SCSI Programming Interface) is used for communication between EAC and the used drive. Despite of the name, this interface is also used for communication with ATAPI (IDE) drives. EAC can use the native Win32 interface of Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista. But in general it is not recommended to use this native interface because bugs and errors could not be excluded.

When no other ASPI interfaces are installed on the system, all other options are greyed out by default. To choose another option, another ASPI interface has to be installed. The one always recommended in conjunction with EAC is the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI Ahead Nero ASPI Driver]. Download the DLL (winaspi32.dll) and copy it into the EAC directory. Then start EAC and a choose the new option (''Installed external ASPI interface'') from this option tab.

The third (but not recommended) option is an external ASPI interface from VOB software. For this option to be available, you have to install the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI ASPI interface from VOB software] first.

Note that all changes made in this option tab require a restart of EAC to take effect.

=External links=
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/ Exact Audio Copy: Extraction Technology]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code Wikipedia: Universal Product Code]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc Wikipedia: International Standard Recording Code]
* [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi Wikipedia: ASPI]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

File:EAC Compression options ID3 Tag.png

2008-01-23T12:21:14Z

Exec: EAC compression options, ID3 Tag tab (recommended settings)

EAC compression options, ID3 Tag tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC Compression options External Compression.png

2008-01-21T18:17:32Z

Exec:

EAC compression options, External Compression tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC Compression options Waveform.png

2008-01-21T18:17:19Z

Exec:

EAC compression options, Waveform tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC Compression options Offset.png

2008-01-21T18:14:29Z

Exec: EAC compression options, Offset tab (recommended settings)

EAC compression options, Offset tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC Compression options External Compression.png

2008-01-21T13:56:52Z

Exec: Recommended settings EAC compression options, External Compression tab

Recommended settings EAC compression options, External Compression tab

EAC Configuration Wizard

2008-01-20T00:13:36Z

Exec:

After installing [[Exact Audio Copy|EAC]] and starting the application for the first time, the '''EAC Configuration Wizard''' will be shown automatically. It is meant to help with the initial configuration of EAC by setting up the most essential options. You also can start the wizard later on by selecting ''EAC'' -> ''Configuration Wizard...'' from the EAC menu.

Please note that the configuration done by the wizard is not sufficient for perfect rips. To achieve this, a manual configuration has to be done after finishing the wizard. That is the reason why an experienced EAC user is likely to skip the wizard altogether and configure all settings on his own. But for a beginner this might be a good help for the initial configuration. In the next sections all steps of the wizard are covered in detail.

The screenshots were taken from a german Windows XP, so the buttons of the dialogs (Next, Finish, Cancel etc.) are german.

=EAC Configuration Wizard=
'''1.''' The first step is only the welcome screen of the wizard. Simply click ''Next''.

'''2.''' On the second step you can choose which drives should be configured by the wizard. Just ''tick all checkboxes'' available so that all drives are configured.
[[Image:EACwizard_1.jpg|none|thumb|Selecting the drives to configure (step 2)]]

'''3.''' After selecting the drives to configure, the following steps (including step 7) repeat for all the drives. First of all you have to choose what is more important for you: accurate results or higher ripping speed. As we want the best results possible, make sure you select the option ''I prefer to have accurate results''.

'''4.''' If your drive was found in the EAC feature databse, then a configuration is suggested in the 4th step. When you are sure, that these settings are correct you might use these suggested configuration. But it is generally a good idea to let EAC detect the drive features when running through the wizard. So tick the option ''I don't trust these values, detect the features for my drive'' and click ''Next''.
[[Image:EACwizard_3.jpg|none|thumb|Drive configuration (step 4)]]

'''5.''' In the next step EAC informs you which drive is up to be tested. If you have not done this yet, insert a clean, scratch-free CD in your drive and click ''Next''.

'''6.''' Now your drive's features are detected: accurate stream, C2 error info and caching (in this case, the caching of audio data is meant, not the caching of data in general, as this is supported by nearly all modern drives). A popup window will you inform about the process. During the drive is tested, do not produce load on your computer as this might alter the results.
[[Image:EACwizard_4.jpg|none|thumb|Detecting the drive's features (step 6)]]

'''7.''' When the popup window disappears, the detected features of the drive are shown. Just confirm these by clicking ''Next''.

'''8.''' After detecting the features of all the drives in your computer, EAC makes a suggestion about which drive should be used for best results. Note that this suggestions might be wrong and that another drive is still better for ripping (when having more drives installed on your computer). The reason for this is that EAC only looks at the features and considers accurate stream and C2 error info as good for ripping, but not the caching feature. So when two drives are installed on the computer and their features only differ in the caching capability, then it is most likely that the drive not supporting caching is suggested by EAC.

'''9.''' Next task is to configure the encoder to use with EAC. The next screen is just meant to give you some general information about the different compression options available. Just go on by clicking ''Next''.

'''10.''' In this step you can choose the encoder EAC should use. You choice depends on many factors (e.g. if you want to use a [[lossless]] or [[lossy]] format), so no recommendation can be given here. Just note the different behavior of EAC by choosing different options: When selecting ''MP3 files (around 1.5 MB/minute)'' EAC will look for [[LAME|lame.exe]] before proceeding with the next steps. If you tick the option ''FLAC (around 6 MB/minute)'', EAC configures itself automatically because it is installed including a [[FLAC]] encoder. For the options ''WMA (around 1.5 MB/minute)'' and ''WMA lossless (around 6 MB/minute)'' the Microsoft [[WMA]] Encoder 9 has to be installed on your computer. You also can skip the encoder configuration right now by selecting ''nothing right now, I will configure it later manually'' and clicking ''Next''
[[Image:EACwizard_7.jpg|none|thumb|Choosing the encoder to use (step 10)]]

'''11.''' What the next step looks like depends on the choice of the encoder in the previous step. When FLAC was chosen, there is just a confirmation screen. In case of [[MP3]], another information screen comes in between before the configuration is finished.

'''12.''' With the next step the access to freedb is configured. To gain access to this service, you have to specify an email address. If you don not want to enter your real email address, just enter a fake address. Just take care that it looks like a real email address (e.g. i@wont.tell).

'''13.''' In the following step the configuration of filenames is done. Just choose an appropriate directorty/filename scheme which fits best for your needs.

'''14.''' This is the last step in the configuration wizard. Here it is important that you select the option ''I am expert, let me use the full potential of EAC'' to gain access to every option in EAC, which is essential for perfect rips. Click ''Finish'' to leave the wizard.
[[Image:EACwizard_8.jpg|none|thumb|I am an expert! (step 14)]]

=AccurateRip=
In general, the configuration of [[AccurateRip]] is started every time when a CD is inserted into a drive which has not been configured before and the CD is known to the AccurateRip database. When you run through all the steps of the wizard, then it is likely that a CD is still inserted in your drive after finishing the wizard, so an AccurateRip popup will be shown after the wizard. In this window the drive to configure and the expected offset will be shown.
[[Image:AccurateRip_1.jpg|none|thumb|AccurateRip popup window]]
Just click ''Configure'' to configure AccurateRip and the offset option in EAC. After a few seconds a confirmation dialog will be shown with the calculated offset.
[[Image:AccurateRip_2.jpg|none|thumb|Finishing the AccurateRip configuration]]

=The next important steps=
When perfect results are expected, we are not done after running through the EAC wizard, because many important options are not covered by the wizard. So the next steps would be the manual configuration of EAC. See the next articles dealing with the [[EAC configuration]] in detail.

=External links=
* [http://www.accuraterip.com/ AccurateRip]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC Options (Legacy)

2008-01-20T00:11:37Z

Exec:

The '''EAC options dialog''' (shortcut: F9) offers several options for configuring [[EAC]] in general without focussing on drive or compression settings.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''

=Extraction=
[[Image:EAC_options_Extraction.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Extraction''' tab]]
This tab includes settings for the extraction of audio CDs.

: '''Fill up missing offset samples with silence'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''
In the case the drive is not capable of overreading into the leadin/leadout or overreading is disabled in the [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]], it is possible that some samples will be missing in the resulting [[WAV]] files. Note that only the first or last track of a CD is affected, depending on the drive having a negative or positive read offset. With this option enabled, these missing (offset) samples are filled with silence. This way, the correct length of the affected WAV files is maintained to get as close to the according original CD tracks as possible. If this option is disabled, some samples will possibly be missing in the resulting WAV files and it is likely that [[AccurateRip]] will report tracks as not accurately ripped (wrong checksums may be calculated because of these missing samples).

For this setting to work properly, the offset correction has to be configured correctly, so that EAC knows how many silent samples have to be added to which track (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]).

: '''No use of null samples for CRC calculations'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, null samples (silence) at the beginning and the end of a track will not be counted for CRC checksums. When this option is enabled and a track has silence at the beginning/end, this could lead to the same CRC checksums, even with different (or even wrong) drive offset values (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]). So when the drive offset is configured correctly, this option should be disabled to get comparable CRC checksums.

: '''Syncronize between tracks'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When ripping adjacent tracks of a CD and this option is enabled, EAC synchronizes between these tracks. This is important to avoid pops or gaps between tracks, so this option should be enabled.

: '''Delete leading and trailing silent blocks'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

If a track contains silence at the beginning and/or the end, EAC delets these silent blocks when this option is enabled. As this would possibly result in WAV files which are not identical to the original tracks, you should leave this option disabled.

: '''Skip track extraction on read or sync errors'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will skip the extraction of the current track if a read or synchronisation error occurs. If there is a read/sync error during extraction, the rip can not be guaranteed to be accurate anymore. This way, you have to decide what is more important for you: If you think that a not accurate rip is better than no rip at all, then you can leave this option disabled. Due to EAC's advanced reading features, it is possible that there are no audible artifacts. In such a case, you should check the log file where all suspicious positions are listed. Listen for yourself if you can hear any artifacts. If not, this may be ok for you.
On the other hand, if an accurate rip is most important, then this option may be enabled so that EAC skips the track when the first read/sync error occurs. When this happens, the first thing to try is to clean the CD and give it another try. When this does not work either, the only solution would be to get another (scratch free) copy of the CD and try the extraction with this one.

: '''Skip track extraction after duration longer than X times realtime'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Due to EAC's advanced reading features, the reading procedure can last very long, especially on scatched CDs (in extreme cases this can last several hours). When this option is enabled and the ripping process takes longer than X times realtime, the affected track is skipped. It is recommended to leave this option disabled because it is likely that EAC can rip such a track even if this takes a long time.

: '''After each X mins of extraction, cool down the drive for Y mins'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

As already mentioned, the extraction of scatched CDs/tracks can last very long. This could possibly stress the drive used for extraction because of a lot of movement of the laser unit. So the whole procedure could also heat up the drive. This may decrease the reading abilities of this drive temporarily. So when you notice that your ripping drive gets unusually hot during difficult and long extraction processes, then it may be a good idea to enable this option. Otherwise you should leave this option disabled, because this will possibly lead to longer extraction times.

: '''Lock drive tray during extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC makes sure that the CD tray is not opened accidentally while ripping. Otherwise this will always result in an aborted extraction process, so leave this option enabled.

: '''Extractions and compression priority'''
:: ''(Default: Normal, '''Recommended: High''')''

With this setting the process priority of EAC and any external compressor during the extraction/compression is set. Setting this option to ''high'' could result in a little shorter ripping times. On the other hand, this could make other applications work "choppy". So if you plan to use other programs during ripping, leave this option as it is (''normal''), otherwise you can set it to ''high''.

: '''Error recovery priority'''
:: ''(Default: Medium, '''Recommended: High/Medium''')''

This setting specifies how many rereads will be done in a case of reading errors. Generally, if reading errors occur, EAC rereads these frames until eight out of 16 retries are identical ([http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/]). The ''error recovery priority'' now specifies, how many of these 16 retires are done (''low''/''medium''/''high'': 1/3/5). A visual representation can be found in the extraction status window: the number of red bars shown for error correction.

So changing this option to ''high'' lets EAC read bad frames more often. This could lead to a better error correction, but also increases the chance that errors slip through undetcted. This is beacuse EAC will assume that a frame was read correctly if there were eight matching reads (of 16) on that frame. If there is a consistent error, EAC is not able to recognize this. So to increase the chance that no errors going unreported, this setting could be left at ''medium''.

Because of the way EAC behaves, there can not be given a clear recommendation. You have to choose between better chance of detecting errors (''medium''), or chance of better error correction (''high'').

=General=
[[Image:EAC_options_General.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''General''' tab]]
In this tab, general EAC options are included. These do not affect the quality or the accuracy of the results produced by EAC. So on most options there is no clear recommendation possible. Just adjust these options as you need them.

: '''Use alternate CD play routines'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is only important for playing an audio CD using EAC. If it is enabled, EAC sends the audio data to the soundcard digitally, so no cable between the drive and the soundcard is needed. Otherwise, when this option is disabled, only the cable between drive and soundcard is used. Therefore, if such a cable is not installed and this option gets disabled, you will not be able to play a CD using EAC at all.

: '''Disable 'CD Autostart' for audio and data CDs while EAC running'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, the autostart for all drives is disabled while EAC is running. That means that no popups or media players are started automatically which could disturb EAC while ripping.

: '''On unknown CDs'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When a CD unknown to EAC is inserted in the drive and this setting is enabled, EAC can take the following actions:
* '''automatically access online freedb database''': EAC tries to find CD information in the [[freedb]] online database automatically. For this option to work, an e-mail adress has to be specified in the [[EAC freedb/Database Options|freedb/Database Options]].
* '''open CD information dialog''': With this option enabled, a pop up is presented to the user where the CD information can be inserted manually.

: '''Display times using frames'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option decides about how times are displayed in the main window. When this option is disabled, 1/100 seconds are used. Enable this setting so that all times are displayed in frames (1 frame equals 1/75 seconds). Time information in frames is generally more native to CDs, whereas the display of 1/100 seconds is likely to be rounded and not really exact. So it is recommended to leave this option enabled.

: '''Ask before overwriting files'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

EAC will always ask if existing files should be overwritten. To be sure that no important files are overwritten, this option should be left enabled.

: '''Correct bug of wrong filename order in Windows multiple file dialog'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

The Windows file selection box sometimes has a strange behavior to exchange the first an last track when multiple files are selected. Leave this option enabled to make sure EAC automatically corrects the file order.

: '''Show status dialog after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Enabling this setting lets EAC show a status dialog after extraction. Because this dialog can give you some important information, you should leave this option enabled.

: '''Beep after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If enabled, EAC will beep (PC speaker) when extraction finished. When you do not want to sit in front of your PC while ripping, this option may come in handy.

: '''Eject CD after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will eject the CD automatically when the extraction finished. When you move away from your PC while ripping, it may be a good idea to leave this option disabled.

: '''When using the power down feature'''

This setting controls what should happen if you tick the power down feature in the extraction dialog. Two options are avaiable:
* '''power down computer''' ''(Default: enabled)'': The computer is shut down after extraction has finished.
* '''restart computer''': The computer gets restarted after extraction.

: '''wait for external compressors'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option specifies if the shutdown or restart process should wait for any active external compressors when the power down feature in the extraction dialog is ticked. You should always leave this option enabled, because otherwise any external compressor can not finish its work before the shutdown/restart process.

: '''EAC language selection'''

This option controls the language settings of EAC. If there is a language setting available which equals the language of the operating system, this language is automatically selected at the first start of EAC.

=Tools=
[[Image:EAC_options_Tools.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Tools''' tab]]
Here the generation of [[Cue_sheet|CUE sheets]], playlists and log files is configured. There are also settings available affecting the behaviour of an external compressor.

For more information on EAC and CUE sheets, see [[EAC_and_Cue_Sheets|EAC and CUE sheets]].

: '''Retrieve UPC/ISRC codes in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When generating CUE sheets for a CD and this option is enabled, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code UPC] (Universal Product Code = barcode) and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc ISRC] (International Standard Recording Code) codes are extracted from the CD and added to the CUE file. It can be quite time comsuming extracting these information from a CD and some CDs do not contain such information at all. But to collect as much information as possible from the CD, this option should be enabled (archiving purposes).

Note that this feature of EAC is reported not to work correctly with some drives. If you plan to let EAC create CUE sheets with UPC/ISRC, you should test this feature with your drive. Just open a generated CUE sheet with a text reader (e.g. Notepad) and check the information stated.

: '''Use CD-Text information in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If your drive supports CD-text, you should leave this option enabled. This will add TITLE and PERFORMER tags to the generated CUE sheet.

: '''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC will automatically create an .m3u playlist file which contains all selected tracks for this extraction. This comes in handy if you use your PC as primary source where most media players can use these playlist files.

: '''Write m3u playlist with extended information'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is greyed out until you enable the option ''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'' (see above). If enabled, EAC adds extended information (length, title and more) to the playlist file. All additional information are added as comments. If your media player can not handle these comments correctly, you should disable this option, otherwise leave it enabled.

: '''Automatically write status report after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC automatically writes a log file after extraction in the same directory as the extracted files. To be able to comprehend the extraction process of a certain CD, it may be a good idea to save these log files. However, even if this option is disabled, it is still possible to save a log file from the status dialog after extraction. Of course, then the corresponding option also has to be enabled in the ''General'' tab (''Show status dialog after extraction'').

: '''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this setting enabled, EAC starts an external compressor as soon as the first track was extracted and therefore the extraction and compressing processes are running simultaneously. Of course, this could lead to a time saving, but also can lead to some problems: it is more likely that errors during extraction/compressing occur on older PCs. So in general, you should leave this option disabled unless you have a dual/multi core CPU.

: '''Use X simultaneous external compressor thread(s)'''
:: ''(Default: 1)''

This option is greyed out until the option above (''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'') is enabled. It controls the number of simultaneous external compressors used by EAC. The more compressors are used simultaneously, the more likely are the problems mentioned above with parallel extraction and compressing. Again, if you have a dual/multi core CPU, it is fine to use this option.

: '''Do not open external compressor window'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC does not open an external compressor window. Because this way you are not able to see the status of the external compressor (and maybe error messages), this option should be left disbaled.

: '''Submit drive features after detection (but ask for permission)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Leving this option enabled, EAC will ask if it should submit the drive features (mostly offset values) after these were detected, e.g. by the wizard. In order to help other people who are not able to determine their drive's features, it is recommended to enable this setting. You can cancel the transfer of any data anyway, because EAC will always ask you before sending any data.

: '''Activate beginner mode, disable all advanced features'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When in beginner mode, EAC hides many options important for achieving the best possible results, so make sure that this option is disabled.

=Normalize=
[[Image:EAC_options_Normalize.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Normalize''' tab]]
This tab contains all settings regarding normalization of extracted music files.

: '''Normalize'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Normalizing is the process to change the volume of a track to a given maximum loudness and is mostly used to get all tracks of a CD or compilation to the same loundess level. Of course, this would change the original track. Because of this, make sure that this option stays disabled.

: '''Normalize to X%'''
:: ''(Default: 98%)''

This option is greyed out until the above option (''Normalize'') is enabled and represents the level of normalization. 100% would be maximum loudness, but to avoid clipping, you should set it a few percents lower (e.g. 98%).

: '''But only if peak level is smaller than X% or greater than Y%'''
:: ''(Default: 85%/99%)''

With this option you can select which tracks will be normalized. All tracks which are out of the range (smaller than X, or greater than Y) are normalized, all others will not be changed.

=Filename=
[[Image:EAC_options_Filename.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Filename''' tab]]
The resulting file names and directory structures can be configured in this tab.

: '''Naming scheme'''

A naming scheme for the resulting files can be specified here. There are many placeholders stated by the option dialog which can be used to build up a naming/directory scheme (for a directory structure, just use "\", as known from the windows explorer). The only limitation is that no absolute file paths (e.g. "C:\Music\%T") can be constructed. The reason is that when starting the extraction of a disc, EAC will either ask by a dialog box where the resulting files will be stored, or will use the predefined directory (depends on what option is enabled as ''Standard directory for extraction'' in the ''Directories'' tab). The directory stated in this dialog defines the absolute path. By putting together this path and the naming scheme stated in this tab, the concrete filenames will be generated.

: '''Use various artist naming scheme'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled and the ''Various Artists'' option box is ticked (in the EAC main window), the naming scheme stated below is used. If you want different naming schemes for one/various artist CDs, then you should enable this setting. The placeholders are the same as stated above (''Naming scheme'').

: '''Replace spaces by underscores'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Enabling this option will EAC let replace spaces in filenames by underscores.

=Catalog=
[[Image:EAC_options_Catalog.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Catalog''' tab]]
Catalog options which are applied when creating catalog samples (''Action'' -> ''Catalog Selected Tracks'') can be configured here. With this function, EAC can produce short samples of each track of a disc.

: '''Catalog file length (in seconds)'''

Defines the length of each catalog sample track in seconds.

: '''Catalog start position in a track (in seconds)'''

Specifies the start position of the catalog sample in a track in seconds. As many music titles are not very significant from the beginning of a track, it may be a good idea to let the catalog samples start somewhere in the middle of a track.

: '''Fade in length (in seconds)'''

If you want that the catalog sample tracks are faded in, enter a value greater than 0.

: '''Fade out length (in seconds)'''

The same as stated above (''Fade in length (in seconds)''), but concerning fade out.

=Directories=
[[Image:EAC_options_Directories.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Directories''' tab]]
The directory where the extracted music files will be placed can be configured here.

: '''Standard directory for extraction'''

This option decides whether the user is asked where to save the resulting files every time an extraction is started, or if a standard directory should be used.

* '''Ask every time (default showing last used directory)''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Any time an extraction starts, a dialog box appears asking for the directory to be used. This directory will be saved and used as default the next time this dialog box appears.
* '''Use this directory''': When always extracting in the same directory anyway, there is no need of the dialog box stated above. In this case, a predefined directory can be specified here.

=Write=
[[Image:EAC_options_Write.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Write''' tab]]
Contains all settings for writing audio CDs with EAC.

: '''Upper all characters (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

If this option is enabled, all characters contained in the CD-text are transformed to upper case. On some CD players, this may look a little better than text in upper-/lower case.

: '''Include artist in the CD-Text track entry (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some CD players will only show the track information of the CD-text. In such a case, the artist information will not be shown. If your CD player acts this way, you should enable this option so that the artist is swapped over into the track information. As an example "Bohemian Rhapsody" will become "Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody".

: '''Disable copy protection flag on adding audio files to the layout editor by default'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When enabled, the copy protection flag will be disabled by default for all added tracks in the write layout editor. Because you can still disable the copy protection flag in the write layout editor when needed (''Layout'' -> ''Edit selected indices...'' -> untick the ''Copy protected'' checkbox), it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use CDRDAO for writing in the EAC layout editor'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When writing CDs with EAC, there are two possibilities: On the one hand, EAC can start an external application called [[CDRDAO]] to write the CD. The general advantage of CDRDAO is the compatibility with many (and even older) CD-R drives. On the other hand, EAC can use its internal writing routines. These are said wo be a bit more stable (as they are internal), but also do not support that many drives.

Note that older versions of EAC came with two different installer packages: one with CDRDAO, the other one without. If you installed the version without CDRDAO, this option was greyed out. But since version 0.99 prebeta 3, there is only one installer available, which contains CDRDAO.

For more information on CDRDAO, see the [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage].

=Interface=
[[Image:EAC_options_Interface.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Interface''' tab]]
In this tab, the interface used for the communication between EAC and the CD drive can be confuigured.

: '''Use of SCSI interface'''
:: ''(Default: Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP, '''Recommended: Installed external ASPI interface''')''

An [[ASPI]] (Advanced SCSI Programming Interface) is used for communication between EAC and the used drive. Despite of the name, this interface is also used for communication with ATAPI (IDE) drives. EAC can use the native Win32 interface of Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista. But in general it is not recommended to use this native interface because bugs and errors could not be excluded.

When no other ASPI interfaces are installed on the system, all other options are greyed out by default. To choose another option, another ASPI interface has to be installed. The one always recommended in conjunction with EAC is the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI Ahead Nero ASPI Driver]. Download the DLL (winaspi32.dll) and copy it into the EAC directory. Then start EAC and a choose the new option (''Installed external ASPI interface'') from this option tab.

The third (but not recommended) option is an external ASPI interface from VOB software. For this option to be available, you have to install the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI ASPI interface from VOB software] first.

Note that all changes made in this option tab require a restart of EAC to take effect.

=External links=
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/ Exact Audio Copy: Extraction Technology]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code Wikipedia: Universal Product Code]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc Wikipedia: International Standard Recording Code]
* [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi Wikipedia: ASPI]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC Configuration Wizard

2008-01-19T23:55:47Z

Exec:

After installing [[Exact Audio Copy|EAC]] and starting the application for the first time, the '''EAC Configuration Wizard''' will be shown automatically. It is meant to help with the initial configuration of EAC by setting up the most essential options. You also can start the wizard later on by selecting ''EAC'' -> ''Configuration Wizard...'' from the EAC menu.

Please note that the configuration done by the wizard ''is not sufficient for perfect rips''. To achieve this, a manual configuration has to be done after finishing the wizard. That is the reason why an experienced EAC user is likely to skip the wizard altogether and configure all settings on his own. But for a beginner this might be a good help for the initial configuration. In the next sections all steps of the wizard are covered in detail.

The screenshots were taken from a german Windows XP, so the buttons of the dialogs (Next, Finish, Cancel etc.) are german.

=EAC Configuration Wizard=
'''1.''' The first step is only the welcome screen of the wizard. Simply click ''Next''.

'''2.''' On the second step you can choose which drives should be configured by the wizard. Just ''tick all checkboxes'' available so that all drives are configured.
[[Image:EACwizard_1.jpg|none|thumb|Selecting the drives to configure (step 2)]]

'''3.''' After selecting the drives to configure, the following steps (including step 7) repeat for all the drives. First of all you have to choose what is more important for you: accurate results or higher ripping speed. As we want the best results possible, make sure you select the option ''I prefer to have accurate results''.

'''4.''' If your drive was found in the EAC feature databse, then a configuration is suggested in the 4th step. When you are sure, that these settings are correct you might use these suggested configuration. But it is generally a good idea to let EAC detect the drive features when running through the wizard. So tick the option ''I don't trust these values, detect the features for my drive'' and click ''Next''.
[[Image:EACwizard_3.jpg|none|thumb|Drive configuration (step 4)]]

'''5.''' In the next step EAC informs you which drive is up to be tested. If you have not done this yet, insert a clean, scratch-free CD in your drive and click ''Next''.

'''6.''' Now your drive's features are detected: accurate stream, C2 error info and caching (in this case, the caching of audio data is meant, not the caching of data in general, as this is supported by nearly all modern drives). A popup window will you inform about the process. During the drive is tested, do not produce load on your computer as this might alter the results.
[[Image:EACwizard_4.jpg|none|thumb|Detecting the drive's features (step 6)]]

'''7.''' When the popup window disappears, the detected features of the drive are shown. Just confirm these by clicking ''Next''.

'''8.''' After detecting the features of all the drives in your computer, EAC makes a suggestion about which drive should be used for best results. Note that this suggestions might be wrong and that another drive is still better for ripping (when having more drives installed on your computer). The reason for this is that EAC only looks at the features and considers accurate stream and C2 error info as good for ripping, but not the caching feature. So when two drives are installed on the computer and their features only differ in the caching capability, then it is most likely that the drive not supporting caching is suggested by EAC.

'''9.''' Next task is to configure the encoder to use with EAC. The next screen is just meant to give you some general information about the different compression options available. Just go on by clicking ''Next''.

'''10.''' In this step you can choose the encoder EAC should use. You choice depends on many factors (e.g. if you want to use a [[lossless]] or [[lossy]] format), so no recommendation can be given here. Just note the different behavior of EAC by choosing different options: When selecting ''MP3 files (around 1.5 MB/minute)'' EAC will look for [[LAME|lame.exe]] before proceeding with the next steps. If you tick the option ''FLAC (around 6 MB/minute)'', EAC configures itself automatically because it is installed including a [[FLAC]] encoder. For the options ''WMA (around 1.5 MB/minute)'' and ''WMA lossless (around 6 MB/minute)'' the Microsoft [[WMA]] Encoder 9 has to be installed on your computer. You also can skip the encoder configuration right now by selecting ''nothing right now, I will configure it later manually'' and clicking ''Next''
[[Image:EACwizard_7.jpg|none|thumb|Choosing the encoder to use (step 10)]]

'''11.''' What the next step looks like depends on the choice of the encoder in the previous step. When FLAC was chosen, there is just a confirmation screen. In case of [[MP3]], another information screen comes in between before the configuration is finished.

'''12.''' With the next step the access to freedb is configured. To gain access to this service, you have to specify an email address. If you don not want to enter your real email address, just enter a fake address. Just take care that it looks like a real email address (e.g. i@wont.tell).

'''13.''' In the following step the configuration of filenames is done. Just choose an appropriate directorty/filename scheme which fits best for your needs.

'''14.''' This is the last step in the configuration wizard. Here it is important that you select the option ''I am expert, let me use the full potential of EAC'' to gain access to every option in EAC, which is essential for perfect rips. Click ''Finish'' to leave the wizard.
[[Image:EACwizard_8.jpg|none|thumb|I am an expert! (step 14)]]

=AccurateRip=
In general, the configuration of [[AccurateRip]] is started every time when a CD is inserted into a drive which has not been configured before and the CD is known to the AccurateRip database. When you run through all the steps of the wizard, then it is likely that a CD is still inserted in your drive after finishing the wizard, so an AccurateRip popup will be shown after the wizard. In this window the drive to configure and the expected offset will be shown.
[[Image:AccurateRip_1.jpg|none|thumb|AccurateRip popup window]]
Just click ''Configure'' to configure AccurateRip and the offset option in EAC. After a few seconds a confirmation dialog will be shown with the calculated offset.
[[Image:AccurateRip_2.jpg|none|thumb|Finishing the AccurateRip configuration]]

=The next important steps=
When perfect results are expected, we are not done after running through the EAC wizard, because many important options are not covered by the wizard. So the next steps would be the manual configuration of EAC. See the next articles dealing with the [[EAC configuration]] in detail.

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC Options (Legacy)

2008-01-16T13:23:51Z

Exec: picture captions

The '''EAC options dialog''' (shortcut: F9) offers several options for configuring EAC in general without focussing on drive or compression settings.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''

=Extraction=
[[Image:EAC_options_Extraction.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Extraction''' tab]]
This tab includes settings for the extraction of audio CDs.

: '''Fill up missing offset samples with silence'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''
In the case the drive is not capable of overreading into the leadin/leadout or overreading is disabled in the [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]], it is possible that some samples will be missing in the resulting WAV files. Note that only the first or last track of a CD is affected, depending on the drive having a negative or positive read offset. With this option enabled, these missing (offset) samples are filled with silence. This way, the correct length of the affected WAV files is maintained to get as close to the according original CD tracks as possible. If this option is disabled, some samples will possibly be missing in the resulting WAV files and it is likely that [[Accurate_Rip|Accurate Rip]] will report tracks as not accurately ripped (wrong checksums may be calculated because of these missing samples).

For this setting to work properly, the offset correction has to be configured correctly, so that EAC knows how many silent samples have to be added to which track (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]).

: '''No use of null samples for CRC calculations'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, null samples (silence) at the beginning and the end of a track will not be counted for CRC checksums. When this option is enabled and a track has silence at the beginning/end, this could lead to the same CRC checksums, even with different (or even wrong) drive offset values (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]). So when the drive offset is configured correctly, this option should be disabled to get comparable CRC checksums.

: '''Syncronize between tracks'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When ripping adjacent tracks of a CD and this option is enabled, EAC synchronizes between these tracks. This is important to avoid pops or gaps between tracks, so this option should be enabled.

: '''Delete leading and trailing silent blocks'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

If a track contains silence at the beginning and/or the end, EAC delets these silent blocks when this option is enabled. As this would possibly result in WAV files which are not identical to the original tracks, you should leave this option disabled.

: '''Skip track extraction on read or sync errors'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will skip the extraction of the current track if a read or synchronisation error occurs. If there is a read/sync error during extraction, the rip can not be guaranteed to be accurate anymore. This way, you have to decide what is more important for you: If you think that a not accurate rip is better than no rip at all, then you can leave this option disabled. Due to EAC's advanced reading features, it is possible that there are no audible artifacts. In such a case, you should check the log file where all suspicious positions are listed. Listen for yourself if you can hear any artifacts. If not, this may be ok for you.
On the other hand, if an accurate rip is most important, then this option may be enabled so that EAC skips the track when the first read/sync error occurs. When this happens, the first thing to try is to clean the CD and give it another try. When this does not work either, the only solution would be to get another (scratch free) copy of the CD and try the extraction with this one.

: '''Skip track extraction after duration longer than X times realtime'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Due to EAC's advanced reading features, the reading procedure can last very long, especially on scatched CDs (in extreme cases this can last several hours). When this option is enabled and the ripping process takes longer than X times realtime, the affected track is skipped. It is recommended to leave this option disabled because it is likely that EAC can rip such a track even if this takes a long time.

: '''After each X mins of extraction, cool down the drive for Y mins'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

As already mentioned, the extraction of scatched CDs/tracks can last very long. This could possibly stress the drive used for extraction because of a lot of movement of the laser unit. So the whole procedure could also heat up the drive. This may decrease the reading abilities of this drive temporarily. So when you notice that your ripping drive gets unusually hot during difficult and long extraction processes, then it may be a good idea to enable this option. Otherwise you should leave this option disabled, because this will possibly lead to longer extraction times.

: '''Lock drive tray during extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC makes sure that the CD tray is not opened accidentally while ripping. Otherwise this will always result in an aborted extraction process, so leave this option enabled.

: '''Extractions and compression priority'''
:: ''(Default: Normal, '''Recommended: High''')''

With this setting the process priority of EAC and any external compressor during the extraction/compression is set. Setting this option to ''high'' could result in a little shorter ripping times. On the other hand, this could make other applications work "choppy". So if you plan to use other programs during ripping, leave this option as it is (''normal''), otherwise you can set it to ''high''.

: '''Error recovery priority'''
:: ''(Default: Medium, '''Recommended: High/Medium''')''

This setting specifies how many rereads will be done in a case of reading errors. Generally, if reading errors occur, EAC rereads these frames until eight out of 16 retries are identical ([http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/]). The ''error recovery priority'' now specifies, how many of these 16 retires are done (''low''/''medium''/''high'': 1/3/5). A visual representation can be found in the extraction status window: the number of red bars shown for error correction.

So changing this option to ''high'' lets EAC read bad frames more often. This could lead to a better error correction, but also increases the chance that errors slip through undetcted. This is beacuse EAC will assume that a frame was read correctly if there were eight matching reads (of 16) on that frame. If there is a consistent error, EAC is not able to recognize this. So to increase the chance that no errors going unreported, this setting could be left at ''medium''.

Because of the way EAC behaves, there can not be given a clear recommendation. You have to choose between better chance of detecting errors (''medium''), or chance of better error correction (''high'').

=General=
[[Image:EAC_options_General.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''General''' tab]]
In this tab, general EAC options are included. These do not affect the quality or the accuracy of the results produced by EAC. So on most options there is no clear recommendation possible. Just adjust these options as you need them.

: '''Use alternate CD play routines'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is only important for playing an audio CD using EAC. If it is enabled, EAC sends the audio data to the soundcard digitally, so no cable between the drive and the soundcard is needed. Otherwise, when this option is disabled, only the cable between drive and soundcard is used. Therefore, if such a cable is not installed and this option gets disabled, you will not be able to play a CD using EAC at all.

: '''Disable 'CD Autostart' for audio and data CDs while EAC running'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, the autostart for all drives is disabled while EAC is running. That means that no popups or media players are started automatically which could disturb EAC while ripping.

: '''On unknown CDs'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When a CD unknown to EAC is inserted in the drive and this setting is enabled, EAC can take the following actions:
* '''automatically access online freedb database''': EAC tries to find CD information in the freedb online database automatically. For this option to work, an e-mail adress has to be specified in the [[EAC freedb/Database Options|freedb/Database Options]].
* '''open CD information dialog''': With this option enabled, a pop up is presented to the user where the CD information can be inserted manually.

: '''Display times using frames'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option decides about how times are displayed in the main window. When this option is disabled, 1/100 seconds are used. Enable this setting so that all times are displayed in frames (1 frame equals 1/75 seconds). Time information in frames is generally more native to CDs, whereas the display of 1/100 seconds is likely to be rounded and not really exact. So it is recommended to leave this option enabled.

: '''Ask before overwriting files'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

EAC will always ask if existing files should be overwritten. To be sure that no important files are overwritten, this option should be left enabled.

: '''Correct bug of wrong filename order in Windows multiple file dialog'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

The Windows file selection box sometimes has a strange behavior to exchange the first an last track when multiple files are selected. Leave this option enabled to make sure EAC automatically corrects the file order.

: '''Show status dialog after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Enabling this setting lets EAC show a status dialog after extraction. Because this dialog can give you some important information, you should leave this option enabled.

: '''Beep after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If enabled, EAC will beep (PC speaker) when extraction finished. When you do not want to sit in front of your PC while ripping, this option may come in handy.

: '''Eject CD after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will eject the CD automatically when the extraction finished. When you move away from your PC while ripping, it may be a good idea to leave this option disabled.

: '''When using the power down feature'''

This setting controls what should happen if you tick the power down feature in the extraction dialog. Two options are avaiable:
* '''power down computer''' ''(Default: enabled)'': The computer is shut down after extraction has finished.
* '''restart computer''': The computer gets restarted after extraction.

: '''wait for external compressors'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option specifies if the shutdown or restart process should wait for any active external compressors when the power down feature in the extraction dialog is ticked. You should always leave this option enabled, because otherwise any external compressor can not finish its work before the shutdown/restart process.

: '''EAC language selection'''

This option controls the language settings of EAC. If there is a language setting available which equals the language of the operating system, this language is automatically selected at the first start of EAC.

=Tools=
[[Image:EAC_options_Tools.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Tools''' tab]]
Here the generation of CUE sheets, playlists and log files is configured. There are also settings available affecting the behaviour of an external compressor.

: '''Retrieve UPC/ISRC codes in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When generating CUE sheets for a CD and this option is enabled, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code UPC] (Universal Product Code = barcode) and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc ISRC] (International Standard Recording Code) codes are extracted from the CD and added to the CUE file. It can be quite time comsuming extracting these information from a CD and some CDs do not contain such information at all. But to collect as much information as possible from the CD, this option should be enabled (archiving purposes).

Note that this feature of EAC is reported not to work correctly with some drives. If you plan to let EAC create CUE sheets with UPC/ISRC, you should test this feature with your drive. Just open a generated CUE sheet with a text reader (e.g. Notepad) and check the information stated.

: '''Use CD-Text information in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If your drive supports CD-text, you should leave this option enabled. This will add TITLE and PERFORMER tags to the generated CUE sheet.

: '''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC will automatically create an .m3u playlist file which contains all selected tracks for this extraction. This comes in handy if you use your PC as primary source where most media players can use these playlist files.

: '''Write m3u playlist with extended information'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is greyed out until you enable the option ''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'' (see above). If enabled, EAC adds extended information (length, title and more) to the playlist file. All additional information are added as comments. If your media player can not handle these comments correctly, you should disable this option, otherwise leave it enabled.

: '''Automatically write status report after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC automatically writes a log file after extraction in the same directory as the extracted files. To be able to comprehend the extraction process of a certain CD, it may be a good idea to save these log files. However, even if this option is disabled, it is still possible to save a log file from the status dialog after extraction. Of course, then the corresponding option also has to be enabled in the ''General'' tab (''Show status dialog after extraction'').

: '''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this setting enabled, EAC starts an external compressor as soon as the first track was extracted and therefore the extraction and compressing processes are running simultaneously. Of course, this could lead to a time saving, but also can lead to some problems: it is more likely that errors during extraction/compressing occur on older PCs. So in general, you should leave this option disabled unless you have a dual/multi core CPU.

: '''Use X simultaneous external compressor thread(s)'''
:: ''(Default: 1)''

This option is greyed out until the option above (''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'') is enabled. It controls the number of simultaneous external compressors used by EAC. The more compressors are used simultaneously, the more likely are the problems mentioned above with parallel extraction and compressing. Again, if you have a dual/multi core CPU, it is fine to use this option.

: '''Do not open external compressor window'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC does not open an external compressor window. Because this way you are not able to see the status of the external compressor (and maybe error messages), this option should be left disbaled.

: '''Submit drive features after detection (but ask for permission)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Leving this option enabled, EAC will ask if it should submit the drive features (mostly offset values) after these were detected, e.g. by the wizard. In order to help other people who are not able to determine their drive's features, it is recommended to enable this setting. You can cancel the transfer of any data anyway, because EAC will always ask you before sending any data.

: '''Activate beginner mode, disable all advanced features'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When in beginner mode, EAC hides many options important for achieving the best possible results, so make sure that this option is disabled.

=Normalize=
[[Image:EAC_options_Normalize.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Normalize''' tab]]
This tab contains all settings regarding normalization of extracted music files.

: '''Normalize'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Normalizing is the process to change the volume of a track to a given maximum loudness and is mostly used to get all tracks of a CD or compilation to the same loundess level. Of course, this would change the original track. Because of this, make sure that this option stays disabled.

: '''Normalize to X%'''
:: ''(Default: 98%)''

This option is greyed out until the above option (''Normalize'') is enabled and represents the level of normalization. 100% would be maximum loudness, but to avoid clipping, you should set it a few percents lower (e.g. 98%).

: '''But only if peak level is smaller than X% or greater than Y%'''
:: ''(Default: 85%/99%)''

With this option you can select which tracks will be normalized. All tracks which are out of the range (smaller than X, or greater than Y) are normalized, all others will not be changed.

=Filename=
[[Image:EAC_options_Filename.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Filename''' tab]]
The resulting file names and directory structures can be configured in this tab.

: '''Naming scheme'''

A naming scheme for the resulting files can be specified here. There are many placeholders stated by the option dialog which can be used to build up a naming/directory scheme (for a directory structure, just use "\", as known from the windows explorer). The only limitation is that no absolute file paths (e.g. "C:\Music\%T") can be constructed. The reason is that when starting the extraction of a disc, EAC will either ask by a dialog box where the resulting files will be stored, or will use the predefined directory (depends on what option is enabled as ''Standard directory for extraction'' in the ''Directories'' tab). The directory stated in this dialog defines the absolute path. By putting together this path and the naming scheme stated in this tab, the concrete filenames will be generated.

: '''Use various artist naming scheme'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled and the ''Various Artists'' option box is ticked (in the EAC main window), the naming scheme stated below is used. If you want different naming schemes for one/various artist CDs, then you should enable this setting. The placeholders are the same as stated above (''Naming scheme'').

: '''Replace spaces by underscores'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Enabling this option will EAC let replace spaces in filenames by underscores.

=Catalog=
[[Image:EAC_options_Catalog.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Catalog''' tab]]
Catalog options which are applied when creating catalog samples (''Action'' -> ''Catalog Selected Tracks'') can be configured here. With this function, EAC can produce short samples of each track of a disc.

: '''Catalog file length (in seconds)'''

Defines the length of each catalog sample track in seconds.

: '''Catalog start position in a track (in seconds)'''

Specifies the start position of the catalog sample in a track in seconds. As many music titles are not very significant from the beginning of a track, it may be a good idea to let the catalog samples start somewhere in the middle of a track.

: '''Fade in length (in seconds)'''

If you want that the catalog sample tracks are faded in, enter a value greater than 0.

: '''Fade out length (in seconds)'''

The same as stated above (''Fade in length (in seconds)''), but concerning fade out.

=Directories=
[[Image:EAC_options_Directories.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Directories''' tab]]
The directory where the extracted music files will be placed can be configured here.

: '''Standard directory for extraction'''

This option decides whether the user is asked where to save the resulting files every time an extraction is started, or if a standard directory should be used.

* '''Ask every time (default showing last used directory)''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Any time an extraction starts, a dialog box appears asking for the directory to be used. This directory will be saved and used as default the next time this dialog box appears.
* '''Use this directory''': When always extracting in the same directory anyway, there is no need of the dialog box stated above. In this case, a predefined directory can be specified here.

=Write=
[[Image:EAC_options_Write.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Write''' tab]]
Contains all settings for writing audio CDs with EAC.

: '''Upper all characters (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

If this option is enabled, all characters contained in the CD-text are transformed to upper case. On some CD players, this may look a little better than text in upper-/lower case.

: '''Include artist in the CD-Text track entry (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some CD players will only show the track information of the CD-text. In such a case, the artist information will not be shown. If your CD player acts this way, you should enable this option so that the artist is swapped over into the track information. As an example "Bohemian Rhapsody" will become "Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody".

: '''Disable copy protection flag on adding audio files to the layout editor by default'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When enabled, the copy protection flag will be disabled by default for all added tracks in the write layout editor. Because you can still disable the copy protection flag in the write layout editor when needed (''Layout'' -> ''Edit selected indices...'' -> untick the ''Copy protected'' checkbox), it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use CDRDAO for writing in the EAC layout editor'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When writing CDs with EAC, there are two possibilities: On the one hand, EAC can start an external application called CDRDAO to write the CD. The general advantage of CDRDAO is the compatibility with many (and even older) CD-R drives. On the other hand, EAC can use its internal writing routines. These are said wo be a bit more stable (as they are internal), but also do not support that many drives.

Note that older versions of EAC came with two different installer packages: one with CDRDAO, the other one without. If you installed the version without CDRDAO, this option was greyed out. But since version 0.99 prebeta 3, there is only one installer available, which contains CDRDAO.

For more information on CDRDAO, see the [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage].

=Interface=
[[Image:EAC_options_Interface.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings '''EAC options''', '''Interface''' tab]]
In this tab, the interface used for the communication between EAC and the CD drive can be confuigured.

: '''Use of SCSI interface'''
:: ''(Default: Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP, '''Recommended: Installed external ASPI interface''')''

An [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi ASPI] (Advanced SCSI Programming Interface) is used for communication between EAC and the used drive. Despite of the name, this interface is also used for communication with ATAPI (IDE) drives. EAC can use the native Win32 interface of Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista. But in general it is not recommended to use this native interface because bugs and errors could not be excluded.

When no other ASPI interfaces are installed on the system, all other options are greyed out by default. To choose another option, another ASPI interface has to be installed. The one always recommended in conjunction with EAC is the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI Ahead Nero ASPI Driver]. Download the DLL (winaspi32.dll) and copy it into the EAC directory. Then start EAC and a choose the new option (''Installed external ASPI interface'') from this option tab.

The third (but not recommended) option is an external ASPI interface from VOB software. For this option to be available, you have to install the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI ASPI interface from VOB software] first.

Note that all changes made in this option tab require a restart of EAC to take effect.

=External links=
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/ Exact Audio Copy: Extraction Technology]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code Wikipedia: Universal Product Code]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc Wikipedia: International Standard Recording Code]
* [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi Wikipedia: ASPI]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

File:EAC Compression options Waveform.png

2008-01-16T13:20:21Z

Exec: Recommended settings EAC compression options, Waveform tab

Recommended settings EAC compression options, Waveform tab

EAC Configuration Wizard

2008-01-15T16:17:31Z

Exec:

After installing [[Exact Audio Copy|EAC]] and starting the application for the first time, the '''EAC Configuration Wizard''' will be shown automatically. It is meant to help with the initial configuration of EAC by setting up the most essential options. You also can start the wizard later on by selecting ''EAC'' -> ''Configuration Wizard...'' from the EAC menu.

Please note that the configuration done by the wizard ''is not sufficient for perfect rips''. To achieve this, a manual configuration has to be done after finishing the wizard. That is the reason why an experienced EAC user is likely to skip the wizard altogether and configure all settings on his own. But for a beginner this might be a good help for the initial configuration. In the next sections all steps of the wizard are covered in detail.

The screenshots were taken from a german Windows XP, so the buttons of the dialogs (Next, Finish, Cancel etc.) are german.

=EAC Configuration Wizard=
'''1.''' The first step is only the welcome screen of the wizard. Simply click ''Next''.

'''2.''' On the second step you can choose which drives should be configured by the wizard. Just ''tick all checkboxes'' available so that all drives are configured.
[[Image:EACwizard_1.jpg|none|thumb|Selecting the drives to configure (step 2)]]

'''3.''' After selecting the drives to configure, the following steps (including step 7) repeat for all the drives. First of all you have to choose what is more important for you: accurate results or higher ripping speed. As we want the best results possible, make sure you select the option ''I prefer to have accurate results''.

'''4.''' If your drive was found in the EAC feature databse, then a configuration is suggested in the 4th step. When you are sure, that these settings are correct you might use these suggested configuration. But it is generally a good idea to let EAC detect the drive features when running through the wizard. So tick the option ''I don't trust these values, detect the features for my drive'' and click ''Next''.
[[Image:EACwizard_3.jpg|none|thumb|Drive configuration (step 4)]]

'''5.''' In the next step EAC informs you which drive is up to be tested. If you have not done this yet, insert a clean, scratch-free CD in your drive and click ''Next''.

'''6.''' Now your drive's features are detected: accurate stream, C2 error info and caching (in this case, the caching of audio data is meant, not the caching of data in general, as this is supported by nearly all modern drives). A popup window will you inform about the process. During the drive is tested, do not produce load on your computer as this might alter the results.
[[Image:EACwizard_4.jpg|none|thumb|Detecting the drive's features (step 6)]]

'''7.''' When the popup window disappears, the detected features of the drive are shown. Just confirm these by clicking ''Next''.

'''8.''' After detecting the features of all the drives in your computer, EAC makes a suggestion about which drive should be used for best results. Note that this suggestions might be wrong and that another drive is still better for ripping (when having more drives installed on your computer). The reason for this is that EAC only looks at the features and considers accurate stream and C2 error info as good for ripping, but not the caching feature. So when two drives are installed on the computer and their features only differ in the caching capability, then it is most likely that the drive not supporting caching is suggested by EAC.

'''9.''' Next task is to configure the encoder to use with EAC. The next screen is just meant to give you some general information about the different compression options available. Just go on by clicking ''Next''.

'''10.''' In this step you can choose the encoder EAC should use. You choice depends on many factors (e.g. if you want to use a lossless or lossy format), so no recommendation can be given here. Just note the different behavior of EAC by choosing different options: When selecting ''MP3 files (around 1.5 MB/minute)'' EAC will look for lame.exe before proceeding with the next steps. If you tick the option ''FLAC (around 6 MB/minute)'', EAC configures itself automatically because it is installed including a FLAC encoder. For the options ''WMA (around 1.5 MB/minute)'' and ''WMA lossless (around 6 MB/minute)'' the Microsoft WMA Encoder 9 has to be installed on your computer. You also can skip the encoder configuration right now by selecting ''nothing right now, I will configure it later manually'' and clicking ''Next''
[[Image:EACwizard_7.jpg|none|thumb|Choosing the encoder to use (step 10)]]

'''11.''' What the next step looks like depends on the choice of the encoder in the previous step. When FLAC was chosen, there is just a confirmation screen. In case of MP3, another information screen comes in between before the configuration is finished.

'''12.''' With the next step the access to freedb is configured. To gain access to this service, you have to specify an email address. If you don not want to enter your real email address, just enter a fake address. Just take care that it looks like a real email address, e.g. i.wont@tell.you

'''13.''' In the following step the configuration of filenames is done. Just choose an appropriate directorty/filename scheme which fits best for your needs.

'''14.''' This is the last step in the configuration wizard. Here it is important that you select the option ''I am expert, let me use the full potential of EAC'' to gain access to every option in EAC, which is essential for perfect rips. Click ''Finish'' to leave the wizard.
[[Image:EACwizard_8.jpg|none|thumb|I am an expert! (step 14)]]

=AccurateRip=
In general, the configuration of AccurateRip is started every time when a CD is inserted into a drive which has not been configured before and the CD is known to the AccurateRip database. When you run through all the steps of the wizard, then it is likely that a CD is still inserted in your drive after finishing the wizard, so an AccurateRip popup will be shown after the wizard. In this window the drive to configure and the expected offset will be shown.
[[Image:AccurateRip_1.jpg|none|thumb|AccurateRip popup window]]
Just click ''Configure'' to configure AccurateRip and the offset option in EAC. After a few seconds a confirmation dialog will be shown with the calculated offset.
[[Image:AccurateRip_2.jpg|none|thumb|Finishing the AccurateRip configuration]]

=The next important steps=
When perfect results are expected, we are not done after running through the EAC wizard, because many important options are not covered by the wizard. So the next steps would be the manual configuration of EAC. See the next articles dealing with the EAC configuration in detail.

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC Options (Legacy)

2008-01-15T16:16:59Z

Exec:

The '''EAC options dialog''' (shortcut: F9) offers several options for configuring EAC in general without focussing on drive or compression settings.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''

=Extraction=
[[Image:EAC_options_Extraction.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Extraction tab]]
This tab includes settings for the extraction of audio CDs.

: '''Fill up missing offset samples with silence'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''
In the case the drive is not capable of overreading into the leadin/leadout or overreading is disabled in the [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]], it is possible that some samples will be missing in the resulting WAV files. Note that only the first or last track of a CD is affected, depending on the drive having a negative or positive read offset. With this option enabled, these missing (offset) samples are filled with silence. This way, the correct length of the affected WAV files is maintained to get as close to the according original CD tracks as possible. If this option is disabled, some samples will possibly be missing in the resulting WAV files and it is likely that [[Accurate_Rip|Accurate Rip]] will report tracks as not accurately ripped (wrong checksums may be calculated because of these missing samples).

For this setting to work properly, the offset correction has to be configured correctly, so that EAC knows how many silent samples have to be added to which track (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]).

: '''No use of null samples for CRC calculations'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, null samples (silence) at the beginning and the end of a track will not be counted for CRC checksums. When this option is enabled and a track has silence at the beginning/end, this could lead to the same CRC checksums, even with different (or even wrong) drive offset values (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]). So when the drive offset is configured correctly, this option should be disabled to get comparable CRC checksums.

: '''Syncronize between tracks'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When ripping adjacent tracks of a CD and this option is enabled, EAC synchronizes between these tracks. This is important to avoid pops or gaps between tracks, so this option should be enabled.

: '''Delete leading and trailing silent blocks'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

If a track contains silence at the beginning and/or the end, EAC delets these silent blocks when this option is enabled. As this would possibly result in WAV files which are not identical to the original tracks, you should leave this option disabled.

: '''Skip track extraction on read or sync errors'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will skip the extraction of the current track if a read or synchronisation error occurs. If there is a read/sync error during extraction, the rip can not be guaranteed to be accurate anymore. This way, you have to decide what is more important for you: If you think that a not accurate rip is better than no rip at all, then you can leave this option disabled. Due to EAC's advanced reading features, it is possible that there are no audible artifacts. In such a case, you should check the log file where all suspicious positions are listed. Listen for yourself if you can hear any artifacts. If not, this may be ok for you.
On the other hand, if an accurate rip is most important, then this option may be enabled so that EAC skips the track when the first read/sync error occurs. When this happens, the first thing to try is to clean the CD and give it another try. When this does not work either, the only solution would be to get another (scratch free) copy of the CD and try the extraction with this one.

: '''Skip track extraction after duration longer than X times realtime'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Due to EAC's advanced reading features, the reading procedure can last very long, especially on scatched CDs (in extreme cases this can last several hours). When this option is enabled and the ripping process takes longer than X times realtime, the affected track is skipped. It is recommended to leave this option disabled because it is likely that EAC can rip such a track even if this takes a long time.

: '''After each X mins of extraction, cool down the drive for Y mins'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

As already mentioned, the extraction of scatched CDs/tracks can last very long. This could possibly stress the drive used for extraction because of a lot of movement of the laser unit. So the whole procedure could also heat up the drive. This may decrease the reading abilities of this drive temporarily. So when you notice that your ripping drive gets unusually hot during difficult and long extraction processes, then it may be a good idea to enable this option. Otherwise you should leave this option disabled, because this will possibly lead to longer extraction times.

: '''Lock drive tray during extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC makes sure that the CD tray is not opened accidentally while ripping. Otherwise this will always result in an aborted extraction process, so leave this option enabled.

: '''Extractions and compression priority'''
:: ''(Default: Normal, '''Recommended: High''')''

With this setting the process priority of EAC and any external compressor during the extraction/compression is set. Setting this option to ''high'' could result in a little shorter ripping times. On the other hand, this could make other applications work "choppy". So if you plan to use other programs during ripping, leave this option as it is (''normal''), otherwise you can set it to ''high''.

: '''Error recovery priority'''
:: ''(Default: Medium, '''Recommended: High/Medium''')''

This setting specifies how many rereads will be done in a case of reading errors. Generally, if reading errors occur, EAC rereads these frames until eight out of 16 retries are identical ([http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/]). The ''error recovery priority'' now specifies, how many of these 16 retires are done (''low''/''medium''/''high'': 1/3/5). A visual representation can be found in the extraction status window: the number of red bars shown for error correction.

So changing this option to ''high'' lets EAC read bad frames more often. This could lead to a better error correction, but also increases the chance that errors slip through undetcted. This is beacuse EAC will assume that a frame was read correctly if there were eight matching reads (of 16) on that frame. If there is a consistent error, EAC is not able to recognize this. So to increase the chance that no errors going unreported, this setting could be left at ''medium''.

Because of the way EAC behaves, there can not be given a clear recommendation. You have to choose between better chance of detecting errors (''medium''), or chance of better error correction (''high'').

=General=
[[Image:EAC_options_General.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, General tab]]
In this tab, general EAC options are included. These do not affect the quality or the accuracy of the results produced by EAC. So on most options there is no clear recommendation possible. Just adjust these options as you need them.

: '''Use alternate CD play routines'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is only important for playing an audio CD using EAC. If it is enabled, EAC sends the audio data to the soundcard digitally, so no cable between the drive and the soundcard is needed. Otherwise, when this option is disabled, only the cable between drive and soundcard is used. Therefore, if such a cable is not installed and this option gets disabled, you will not be able to play a CD using EAC at all.

: '''Disable 'CD Autostart' for audio and data CDs while EAC running'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, the autostart for all drives is disabled while EAC is running. That means that no popups or media players are started automatically which could disturb EAC while ripping.

: '''On unknown CDs'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When a CD unknown to EAC is inserted in the drive and this setting is enabled, EAC can take the following actions:
* '''automatically access online freedb database''': EAC tries to find CD information in the freedb online database automatically. For this option to work, an e-mail adress has to be specified in the [[EAC freedb/Database Options|freedb/Database Options]].
* '''open CD information dialog''': With this option enabled, a pop up is presented to the user where the CD information can be inserted manually.

: '''Display times using frames'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option decides about how times are displayed in the main window. When this option is disabled, 1/100 seconds are used. Enable this setting so that all times are displayed in frames (1 frame equals 1/75 seconds). Time information in frames is generally more native to CDs, whereas the display of 1/100 seconds is likely to be rounded and not really exact. So it is recommended to leave this option enabled.

: '''Ask before overwriting files'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

EAC will always ask if existing files should be overwritten. To be sure that no important files are overwritten, this option should be left enabled.

: '''Correct bug of wrong filename order in Windows multiple file dialog'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

The Windows file selection box sometimes has a strange behavior to exchange the first an last track when multiple files are selected. Leave this option enabled to make sure EAC automatically corrects the file order.

: '''Show status dialog after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Enabling this setting lets EAC show a status dialog after extraction. Because this dialog can give you some important information, you should leave this option enabled.

: '''Beep after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If enabled, EAC will beep (PC speaker) when extraction finished. When you do not want to sit in front of your PC while ripping, this option may come in handy.

: '''Eject CD after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will eject the CD automatically when the extraction finished. When you move away from your PC while ripping, it may be a good idea to leave this option disabled.

: '''When using the power down feature'''

This setting controls what should happen if you tick the power down feature in the extraction dialog. Two options are avaiable:
* '''power down computer''' ''(Default: enabled)'': The computer is shut down after extraction has finished.
* '''restart computer''': The computer gets restarted after extraction.

: '''wait for external compressors'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option specifies if the shutdown or restart process should wait for any active external compressors when the power down feature in the extraction dialog is ticked. You should always leave this option enabled, because otherwise any external compressor can not finish its work before the shutdown/restart process.

: '''EAC language selection'''

This option controls the language settings of EAC. If there is a language setting available which equals the language of the operating system, this language is automatically selected at the first start of EAC.

=Tools=
[[Image:EAC_options_Tools.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Tools tab]]
Here the generation of CUE sheets, playlists and log files is configured. There are also settings available affecting the behaviour of an external compressor.

: '''Retrieve UPC/ISRC codes in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When generating CUE sheets for a CD and this option is enabled, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code UPC] (Universal Product Code = barcode) and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc ISRC] (International Standard Recording Code) codes are extracted from the CD and added to the CUE file. It can be quite time comsuming extracting these information from a CD and some CDs do not contain such information at all. But to collect as much information as possible from the CD, this option should be enabled (archiving purposes).

Note that this feature of EAC is reported not to work correctly with some drives. If you plan to let EAC create CUE sheets with UPC/ISRC, you should test this feature with your drive. Just open a generated CUE sheet with a text reader (e.g. Notepad) and check the information stated.

: '''Use CD-Text information in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If your drive supports CD-text, you should leave this option enabled. This will add TITLE and PERFORMER tags to the generated CUE sheet.

: '''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC will automatically create an .m3u playlist file which contains all selected tracks for this extraction. This comes in handy if you use your PC as primary source where most media players can use these playlist files.

: '''Write m3u playlist with extended information'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is greyed out until you enable the option ''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'' (see above). If enabled, EAC adds extended information (length, title and more) to the playlist file. All additional information are added as comments. If your media player can not handle these comments correctly, you should disable this option, otherwise leave it enabled.

: '''Automatically write status report after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC automatically writes a log file after extraction in the same directory as the extracted files. To be able to comprehend the extraction process of a certain CD, it may be a good idea to save these log files. However, even if this option is disabled, it is still possible to save a log file from the status dialog after extraction. Of course, then the corresponding option also has to be enabled in the ''General'' tab (''Show status dialog after extraction'').

: '''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this setting enabled, EAC starts an external compressor as soon as the first track was extracted and therefore the extraction and compressing processes are running simultaneously. Of course, this could lead to a time saving, but also can lead to some problems: it is more likely that errors during extraction/compressing occur on older PCs. So in general, you should leave this option disabled unless you have a dual/multi core CPU.

: '''Use X simultaneous external compressor thread(s)'''
:: ''(Default: 1)''

This option is greyed out until the option above (''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'') is enabled. It controls the number of simultaneous external compressors used by EAC. The more compressors are used simultaneously, the more likely are the problems mentioned above with parallel extraction and compressing. Again, if you have a dual/multi core CPU, it is fine to use this option.

: '''Do not open external compressor window'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC does not open an external compressor window. Because this way you are not able to see the status of the external compressor (and maybe error messages), this option should be left disbaled.

: '''Submit drive features after detection (but ask for permission)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Leving this option enabled, EAC will ask if it should submit the drive features (mostly offset values) after these were detected, e.g. by the wizard. In order to help other people who are not able to determine their drive's features, it is recommended to enable this setting. You can cancel the transfer of any data anyway, because EAC will always ask you before sending any data.

: '''Activate beginner mode, disable all advanced features'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When in beginner mode, EAC hides many options important for achieving the best possible results, so make sure that this option is disabled.

=Normalize=
[[Image:EAC_options_Normalize.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Normalize tab]]
This tab contains all settings regarding normalization of extracted music files.

: '''Normalize'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Normalizing is the process to change the volume of a track to a given maximum loudness and is mostly used to get all tracks of a CD or compilation to the same loundess level. Of course, this would change the original track. Because of this, make sure that this option stays disabled.

: '''Normalize to X%'''
:: ''(Default: 98%)''

This option is greyed out until the above option (''Normalize'') is enabled and represents the level of normalization. 100% would be maximum loudness, but to avoid clipping, you should set it a few percents lower (e.g. 98%).

: '''But only if peak level is smaller than X% or greater than Y%'''
:: ''(Default: 85%/99%)''

With this option you can select which tracks will be normalized. All tracks which are out of the range (smaller than X, or greater than Y) are normalized, all others will not be changed.

=Filename=
[[Image:EAC_options_Filename.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Filename tab]]
The resulting file names and directory structures can be configured in this tab.

: '''Naming scheme'''

A naming scheme for the resulting files can be specified here. There are many placeholders stated by the option dialog which can be used to build up a naming/directory scheme (for a directory structure, just use "\", as known from the windows explorer). The only limitation is that no absolute file paths (e.g. "C:\Music\%T") can be constructed. The reason is that when starting the extraction of a disc, EAC will either ask by a dialog box where the resulting files will be stored, or will use the predefined directory (depends on what option is enabled as ''Standard directory for extraction'' in the ''Directories'' tab). The directory stated in this dialog defines the absolute path. By putting together this path and the naming scheme stated in this tab, the concrete filenames will be generated.

: '''Use various artist naming scheme'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled and the ''Various Artists'' option box is ticked (in the EAC main window), the naming scheme stated below is used. If you want different naming schemes for one/various artist CDs, then you should enable this setting. The placeholders are the same as stated above (''Naming scheme'').

: '''Replace spaces by underscores'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Enabling this option will EAC let replace spaces in filenames by underscores.

=Catalog=
[[Image:EAC_options_Catalog.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Catalog tab]]
Catalog options which are applied when creating catalog samples (''Action'' -> ''Catalog Selected Tracks'') can be configured here. With this function, EAC can produce short samples of each track of a disc.

: '''Catalog file length (in seconds)'''

Defines the length of each catalog sample track in seconds.

: '''Catalog start position in a track (in seconds)'''

Specifies the start position of the catalog sample in a track in seconds. As many music titles are not very significant from the beginning of a track, it may be a good idea to let the catalog samples start somewhere in the middle of a track.

: '''Fade in length (in seconds)'''

If you want that the catalog sample tracks are faded in, enter a value greater than 0.

: '''Fade out length (in seconds)'''

The same as stated above (''Fade in length (in seconds)''), but concerning fade out.

=Directories=
[[Image:EAC_options_Directories.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Directories tab]]
The directory where the extracted music files will be placed can be configured here.

: '''Standard directory for extraction'''

This option decides whether the user is asked where to save the resulting files every time an extraction is started, or if a standard directory should be used.

* '''Ask every time (default showing last used directory)''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Any time an extraction starts, a dialog box appears asking for the directory to be used. This directory will be saved and used as default the next time this dialog box appears.
* '''Use this directory''': When always extracting in the same directory anyway, there is no need of the dialog box stated above. In this case, a predefined directory can be specified here.

=Write=
[[Image:EAC_options_Write.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Write tab]]
Contains all settings for writing audio CDs with EAC.

: '''Upper all characters (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

If this option is enabled, all characters contained in the CD-text are transformed to upper case. On some CD players, this may look a little better than text in upper-/lower case.

: '''Include artist in the CD-Text track entry (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some CD players will only show the track information of the CD-text. In such a case, the artist information will not be shown. If your CD player acts this way, you should enable this option so that the artist is swapped over into the track information. As an example "Bohemian Rhapsody" will become "Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody".

: '''Disable copy protection flag on adding audio files to the layout editor by default'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When enabled, the copy protection flag will be disabled by default for all added tracks in the write layout editor. Because you can still disable the copy protection flag in the write layout editor when needed (''Layout'' -> ''Edit selected indices...'' -> untick the ''Copy protected'' checkbox), it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use CDRDAO for writing in the EAC layout editor'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When writing CDs with EAC, there are two possibilities: On the one hand, EAC can start an external application called CDRDAO to write the CD. The general advantage of CDRDAO is the compatibility with many (and even older) CD-R drives. On the other hand, EAC can use its internal writing routines. These are said wo be a bit more stable (as they are internal), but also do not support that many drives.

Note that older versions of EAC came with two different installer packages: one with CDRDAO, the other one without. If you installed the version without CDRDAO, this option was greyed out. But since version 0.99 prebeta 3, there is only one installer available, which contains CDRDAO.

For more information on CDRDAO, see the [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage].

=Interface=
[[Image:EAC_options_Interface.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Interface tab]]
In this tab, the interface used for the communication between EAC and the CD drive can be confuigured.

: '''Use of SCSI interface'''
:: ''(Default: Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP, '''Recommended: Installed external ASPI interface''')''

An [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi ASPI] (Advanced SCSI Programming Interface) is used for communication between EAC and the used drive. Despite of the name, this interface is also used for communication with ATAPI (IDE) drives. EAC can use the native Win32 interface of Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista. But in general it is not recommended to use this native interface because bugs and errors could not be excluded.

When no other ASPI interfaces are installed on the system, all other options are greyed out by default. To choose another option, another ASPI interface has to be installed. The one always recommended in conjunction with EAC is the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI Ahead Nero ASPI Driver]. Download the DLL (winaspi32.dll) and copy it into the EAC directory. Then start EAC and a choose the new option (''Installed external ASPI interface'') from this option tab.

The third (but not recommended) option is an external ASPI interface from VOB software. For this option to be available, you have to install the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI ASPI interface from VOB software] first.

Note that all changes made in this option tab require a restart of EAC to take effect.

=External links=
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/ Exact Audio Copy: Extraction Technology]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code Wikipedia: Universal Product Code]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc Wikipedia: International Standard Recording Code]
* [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi Wikipedia: ASPI]

[[Category:EAC Guides]]

EAC Options (Legacy)

2008-01-15T16:08:34Z

Exec: /* Interface */

The '''EAC options dialog''' (shortcut: F9) offers several options for configuring EAC in general without focussing on drive or compression settings.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''

=Extraction=
[[Image:EAC_options_Extraction.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Extraction tab]]
This tab includes settings for the extraction of audio CDs.

: '''Fill up missing offset samples with silence'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''
In the case the drive is not capable of overreading into the leadin/leadout or overreading is disabled in the [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]], it is possible that some samples will be missing in the resulting WAV files. Note that only the first or last track of a CD is affected, depending on the drive having a negative or positive read offset. With this option enabled, these missing (offset) samples are filled with silence. This way, the correct length of the affected WAV files is maintained to get as close to the according original CD tracks as possible. If this option is disabled, some samples will possibly be missing in the resulting WAV files and it is likely that [[Accurate_Rip|Accurate Rip]] will report tracks as not accurately ripped (wrong checksums may be calculated because of these missing samples).

For this setting to work properly, the offset correction has to be configured correctly, so that EAC knows how many silent samples have to be added to which track (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]).

: '''No use of null samples for CRC calculations'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, null samples (silence) at the beginning and the end of a track will not be counted for CRC checksums. When this option is enabled and a track has silence at the beginning/end, this could lead to the same CRC checksums, even with different (or even wrong) drive offset values (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]). So when the drive offset is configured correctly, this option should be disabled to get comparable CRC checksums.

: '''Syncronize between tracks'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When ripping adjacent tracks of a CD and this option is enabled, EAC synchronizes between these tracks. This is important to avoid pops or gaps between tracks, so this option should be enabled.

: '''Delete leading and trailing silent blocks'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

If a track contains silence at the beginning and/or the end, EAC delets these silent blocks when this option is enabled. As this would possibly result in WAV files which are not identical to the original tracks, you should leave this option disabled.

: '''Skip track extraction on read or sync errors'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will skip the extraction of the current track if a read or synchronisation error occurs. If there is a read/sync error during extraction, the rip can not be guaranteed to be accurate anymore. This way, you have to decide what is more important for you: If you think that a not accurate rip is better than no rip at all, then you can leave this option disabled. Due to EAC's advanced reading features, it is possible that there are no audible artifacts. In such a case, you should check the log file where all suspicious positions are listed. Listen for yourself if you can hear any artifacts. If not, this may be ok for you.
On the other hand, if an accurate rip is most important, then this option may be enabled so that EAC skips the track when the first read/sync error occurs. When this happens, the first thing to try is to clean the CD and give it another try. When this does not work either, the only solution would be to get another (scratch free) copy of the CD and try the extraction with this one.

: '''Skip track extraction after duration longer than X times realtime'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Due to EAC's advanced reading features, the reading procedure can last very long, especially on scatched CDs (in extreme cases this can last several hours). When this option is enabled and the ripping process takes longer than X times realtime, the affected track is skipped. It is recommended to leave this option disabled because it is likely that EAC can rip such a track even if this takes a long time.

: '''After each X mins of extraction, cool down the drive for Y mins'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

As already mentioned, the extraction of scatched CDs/tracks can last very long. This could possibly stress the drive used for extraction because of a lot of movement of the laser unit. So the whole procedure could also heat up the drive. This may decrease the reading abilities of this drive temporarily. So when you notice that your ripping drive gets unusually hot during difficult and long extraction processes, then it may be a good idea to enable this option. Otherwise you should leave this option disabled, because this will possibly lead to longer extraction times.

: '''Lock drive tray during extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC makes sure that the CD tray is not opened accidentally while ripping. Otherwise this will always result in an aborted extraction process, so leave this option enabled.

: '''Extractions and compression priority'''
:: ''(Default: Normal, '''Recommended: High''')''

With this setting the process priority of EAC and any external compressor during the extraction/compression is set. Setting this option to ''high'' could result in a little shorter ripping times. On the other hand, this could make other applications work "choppy". So if you plan to use other programs during ripping, leave this option as it is (''normal''), otherwise you can set it to ''high''.

: '''Error recovery priority'''
:: ''(Default: Medium, '''Recommended: High/Medium''')''

This setting specifies how many rereads will be done in a case of reading errors. Generally, if reading errors occur, EAC rereads these frames until eight out of 16 retries are identical ([http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/]). The ''error recovery priority'' now specifies, how many of these 16 retires are done (''low''/''medium''/''high'': 1/3/5). A visual representation can be found in the extraction status window: the number of red bars shown for error correction.

So changing this option to ''high'' lets EAC read bad frames more often. This could lead to a better error correction, but also increases the chance that errors slip through undetcted. This is beacuse EAC will assume that a frame was read correctly if there were eight matching reads (of 16) on that frame. If there is a consistent error, EAC is not able to recognize this. So to increase the chance that no errors going unreported, this setting could be left at ''medium''.

Because of the way EAC behaves, there can not be given a clear recommendation. You have to choose between better chance of detecting errors (''medium''), or chance of better error correction (''high'').

=General=
[[Image:EAC_options_General.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, General tab]]
In this tab, general EAC options are included. These do not affect the quality or the accuracy of the results produced by EAC. So on most options there is no clear recommendation possible. Just adjust these options as you need them.

: '''Use alternate CD play routines'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is only important for playing an audio CD using EAC. If it is enabled, EAC sends the audio data to the soundcard digitally, so no cable between the drive and the soundcard is needed. Otherwise, when this option is disabled, only the cable between drive and soundcard is used. Therefore, if such a cable is not installed and this option gets disabled, you will not be able to play a CD using EAC at all.

: '''Disable 'CD Autostart' for audio and data CDs while EAC running'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, the autostart for all drives is disabled while EAC is running. That means that no popups or media players are started automatically which could disturb EAC while ripping.

: '''On unknown CDs'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When a CD unknown to EAC is inserted in the drive and this setting is enabled, EAC can take the following actions:
* '''automatically access online freedb database''': EAC tries to find CD information in the freedb online database automatically. For this option to work, an e-mail adress has to be specified in the [[EAC freedb/Database Options|freedb/Database Options]].
* '''open CD information dialog''': With this option enabled, a pop up is presented to the user where the CD information can be inserted manually.

: '''Display times using frames'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option decides about how times are displayed in the main window. When this option is disabled, 1/100 seconds are used. Enable this setting so that all times are displayed in frames (1 frame equals 1/75 seconds). Time information in frames is generally more native to CDs, whereas the display of 1/100 seconds is likely to be rounded and not really exact. So it is recommended to leave this option enabled.

: '''Ask before overwriting files'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

EAC will always ask if existing files should be overwritten. To be sure that no important files are overwritten, this option should be left enabled.

: '''Correct bug of wrong filename order in Windows multiple file dialog'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

The Windows file selection box sometimes has a strange behavior to exchange the first an last track when multiple files are selected. Leave this option enabled to make sure EAC automatically corrects the file order.

: '''Show status dialog after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Enabling this setting lets EAC show a status dialog after extraction. Because this dialog can give you some important information, you should leave this option enabled.

: '''Beep after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If enabled, EAC will beep (PC speaker) when extraction finished. When you do not want to sit in front of your PC while ripping, this option may come in handy.

: '''Eject CD after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will eject the CD automatically when the extraction finished. When you move away from your PC while ripping, it may be a good idea to leave this option disabled.

: '''When using the power down feature'''

This setting controls what should happen if you tick the power down feature in the extraction dialog. Two options are avaiable:
* '''power down computer''' ''(Default: enabled)'': The computer is shut down after extraction has finished.
* '''restart computer''': The computer gets restarted after extraction.

: '''wait for external compressors'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option specifies if the shutdown or restart process should wait for any active external compressors when the power down feature in the extraction dialog is ticked. You should always leave this option enabled, because otherwise any external compressor can not finish its work before the shutdown/restart process.

: '''EAC language selection'''

This option controls the language settings of EAC. If there is a language setting available which equals the language of the operating system, this language is automatically selected at the first start of EAC.

=Tools=
[[Image:EAC_options_Tools.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Tools tab]]
Here the generation of CUE sheets, playlists and log files is configured. There are also settings available affecting the behaviour of an external compressor.

: '''Retrieve UPC/ISRC codes in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When generating CUE sheets for a CD and this option is enabled, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code UPC] (Universal Product Code = barcode) and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc ISRC] (International Standard Recording Code) codes are extracted from the CD and added to the CUE file. It can be quite time comsuming extracting these information from a CD and some CDs do not contain such information at all. But to collect as much information as possible from the CD, this option should be enabled (archiving purposes).

Note that this feature of EAC is reported not to work correctly with some drives. If you plan to let EAC create CUE sheets with UPC/ISRC, you should test this feature with your drive. Just open a generated CUE sheet with a text reader (e.g. Notepad) and check the information stated.

: '''Use CD-Text information in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If your drive supports CD-text, you should leave this option enabled. This will add TITLE and PERFORMER tags to the generated CUE sheet.

: '''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC will automatically create an .m3u playlist file which contains all selected tracks for this extraction. This comes in handy if you use your PC as primary source where most media players can use these playlist files.

: '''Write m3u playlist with extended information'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is greyed out until you enable the option ''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'' (see above). If enabled, EAC adds extended information (length, title and more) to the playlist file. All additional information are added as comments. If your media player can not handle these comments correctly, you should disable this option, otherwise leave it enabled.

: '''Automatically write status report after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC automatically writes a log file after extraction in the same directory as the extracted files. To be able to comprehend the extraction process of a certain CD, it may be a good idea to save these log files. However, even if this option is disabled, it is still possible to save a log file from the status dialog after extraction. Of course, then the corresponding option also has to be enabled in the ''General'' tab (''Show status dialog after extraction'').

: '''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this setting enabled, EAC starts an external compressor as soon as the first track was extracted and therefore the extraction and compressing processes are running simultaneously. Of course, this could lead to a time saving, but also can lead to some problems: it is more likely that errors during extraction/compressing occur on older PCs. So in general, you should leave this option disabled unless you have a dual/multi core CPU.

: '''Use X simultaneous external compressor thread(s)'''
:: ''(Default: 1)''

This option is greyed out until the option above (''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'') is enabled. It controls the number of simultaneous external compressors used by EAC. The more compressors are used simultaneously, the more likely are the problems mentioned above with parallel extraction and compressing. Again, if you have a dual/multi core CPU, it is fine to use this option.

: '''Do not open external compressor window'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC does not open an external compressor window. Because this way you are not able to see the status of the external compressor (and maybe error messages), this option should be left disbaled.

: '''Submit drive features after detection (but ask for permission)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Leving this option enabled, EAC will ask if it should submit the drive features (mostly offset values) after these were detected, e.g. by the wizard. In order to help other people who are not able to determine their drive's features, it is recommended to enable this setting. You can cancel the transfer of any data anyway, because EAC will always ask you before sending any data.

: '''Activate beginner mode, disable all advanced features'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When in beginner mode, EAC hides many options important for achieving the best possible results, so make sure that this option is disabled.

=Normalize=
[[Image:EAC_options_Normalize.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Normalize tab]]
This tab contains all settings regarding normalization of extracted music files.

: '''Normalize'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Normalizing is the process to change the volume of a track to a given maximum loudness and is mostly used to get all tracks of a CD or compilation to the same loundess level. Of course, this would change the original track. Because of this, make sure that this option stays disabled.

: '''Normalize to X%'''
:: ''(Default: 98%)''

This option is greyed out until the above option (''Normalize'') is enabled and represents the level of normalization. 100% would be maximum loudness, but to avoid clipping, you should set it a few percents lower (e.g. 98%).

: '''But only if peak level is smaller than X% or greater than Y%'''
:: ''(Default: 85%/99%)''

With this option you can select which tracks will be normalized. All tracks which are out of the range (smaller than X, or greater than Y) are normalized, all others will not be changed.

=Filename=
[[Image:EAC_options_Filename.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Filename tab]]
The resulting file names and directory structures can be configured in this tab.

: '''Naming scheme'''

A naming scheme for the resulting files can be specified here. There are many placeholders stated by the option dialog which can be used to build up a naming/directory scheme (for a directory structure, just use "\", as known from the windows explorer). The only limitation is that no absolute file paths (e.g. "C:\Music\%T") can be constructed. The reason is that when starting the extraction of a disc, EAC will either ask by a dialog box where the resulting files will be stored, or will use the predefined directory (depends on what option is enabled as ''Standard directory for extraction'' in the ''Directories'' tab). The directory stated in this dialog defines the absolute path. By putting together this path and the naming scheme stated in this tab, the concrete filenames will be generated.

: '''Use various artist naming scheme'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled and the ''Various Artists'' option box is ticked (in the EAC main window), the naming scheme stated below is used. If you want different naming schemes for one/various artist CDs, then you should enable this setting. The placeholders are the same as stated above (''Naming scheme'').

: '''Replace spaces by underscores'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Enabling this option will EAC let replace spaces in filenames by underscores.

=Catalog=
[[Image:EAC_options_Catalog.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Catalog tab]]
Catalog options which are applied when creating catalog samples (''Action'' -> ''Catalog Selected Tracks'') can be configured here. With this function, EAC can produce short samples of each track of a disc.

: '''Catalog file length (in seconds)'''

Defines the length of each catalog sample track in seconds.

: '''Catalog start position in a track (in seconds)'''

Specifies the start position of the catalog sample in a track in seconds. As many music titles are not very significant from the beginning of a track, it may be a good idea to let the catalog samples start somewhere in the middle of a track.

: '''Fade in length (in seconds)'''

If you want that the catalog sample tracks are faded in, enter a value greater than 0.

: '''Fade out length (in seconds)'''

The same as stated above (''Fade in length (in seconds)''), but concerning fade out.

=Directories=
[[Image:EAC_options_Directories.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Directories tab]]
The directory where the extracted music files will be placed can be configured here.

: '''Standard directory for extraction'''

This option decides whether the user is asked where to save the resulting files every time an extraction is started, or if a standard directory should be used.

* '''Ask every time (default showing last used directory)''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Any time an extraction starts, a dialog box appears asking for the directory to be used. This directory will be saved and used as default the next time this dialog box appears.
* '''Use this directory''': When always extracting in the same directory anyway, there is no need of the dialog box stated above. In this case, a predefined directory can be specified here.

=Write=
[[Image:EAC_options_Write.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Write tab]]
Contains all settings for writing audio CDs with EAC.

: '''Upper all characters (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

If this option is enabled, all characters contained in the CD-text are transformed to upper case. On some CD players, this may look a little better than text in upper-/lower case.

: '''Include artist in the CD-Text track entry (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some CD players will only show the track information of the CD-text. In such a case, the artist information will not be shown. If your CD player acts this way, you should enable this option so that the artist is swapped over into the track information. As an example "Bohemian Rhapsody" will become "Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody".

: '''Disable copy protection flag on adding audio files to the layout editor by default'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When enabled, the copy protection flag will be disabled by default for all added tracks in the write layout editor. Because you can still disable the copy protection flag in the write layout editor when needed (''Layout'' -> ''Edit selected indices...'' -> untick the ''Copy protected'' checkbox), it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use CDRDAO for writing in the EAC layout editor'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When writing CDs with EAC, there are two possibilities: On the one hand, EAC can start an external application called CDRDAO to write the CD. The general advantage of CDRDAO is the compatibility with many (and even older) CD-R drives. On the other hand, EAC can use its internal writing routines. These are said wo be a bit more stable (as they are internal), but also do not support that many drives.

Note that older versions of EAC came with two different installer packages: one with CDRDAO, the other one without. If you installed the version without CDRDAO, this option was greyed out. But since version 0.99 prebeta 3, there is only one installer available, which contains CDRDAO.

For more information on CDRDAO, see the [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage].

=Interface=
[[Image:EAC_options_Interface.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Interface tab]]
In this tab, the interface used for the communication between EAC and the CD drive can be confuigured.

: '''Use of SCSI interface'''
:: ''(Default: Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP, '''Recommended: Installed external ASPI interface''')''

An [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi ASPI] (Advanced SCSI Programming Interface) is used for communication between EAC and the used drive. Despite of the name, this interface is also used for communication with ATAPI (IDE) drives. EAC can use the native Win32 interface of Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista. But in general it is not recommended to use this native interface because bugs and errors could not be excluded.

When no other ASPI interfaces are installed on the system, all other options are greyed out by default. To choose another option, another ASPI interface has to be installed. The one always recommended in conjunction with EAC is the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI Ahead Nero ASPI Driver]. Download the DLL (winaspi32.dll) and copy it into the EAC directory. Then start EAC and a choose the new option (''Installed external ASPI interface'') from this option tab.

The third (but not recommended) option is an external ASPI interface from VOB software. For this option to be available, you have to install the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI ASPI interface from VOB software] first.

Note that all changes made in this option tab require a restart of EAC to take effect.

=External links=
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/ Exact Audio Copy: Extraction Technology]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code Wikipedia: Universal Product Code]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc Wikipedia: International Standard Recording Code]
* [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi Wikipedia: ASPI]

EAC Options (Legacy)

2008-01-15T14:21:39Z

Exec:

The '''EAC options dialog''' (shortcut: F9) offers several options for configuring EAC in general without focussing on drive or compression settings.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''

=Extraction=
[[Image:EAC_options_Extraction.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Extraction tab]]
This tab includes settings for the extraction of audio CDs.

: '''Fill up missing offset samples with silence'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''
In the case the drive is not capable of overreading into the leadin/leadout or overreading is disabled in the [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]], it is possible that some samples will be missing in the resulting WAV files. Note that only the first or last track of a CD is affected, depending on the drive having a negative or positive read offset. With this option enabled, these missing (offset) samples are filled with silence. This way, the correct length of the affected WAV files is maintained to get as close to the according original CD tracks as possible. If this option is disabled, some samples will possibly be missing in the resulting WAV files and it is likely that [[Accurate_Rip|Accurate Rip]] will report tracks as not accurately ripped (wrong checksums may be calculated because of these missing samples).

For this setting to work properly, the offset correction has to be configured correctly, so that EAC knows how many silent samples have to be added to which track (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]).

: '''No use of null samples for CRC calculations'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, null samples (silence) at the beginning and the end of a track will not be counted for CRC checksums. When this option is enabled and a track has silence at the beginning/end, this could lead to the same CRC checksums, even with different (or even wrong) drive offset values (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]). So when the drive offset is configured correctly, this option should be disabled to get comparable CRC checksums.

: '''Syncronize between tracks'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When ripping adjacent tracks of a CD and this option is enabled, EAC synchronizes between these tracks. This is important to avoid pops or gaps between tracks, so this option should be enabled.

: '''Delete leading and trailing silent blocks'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

If a track contains silence at the beginning and/or the end, EAC delets these silent blocks when this option is enabled. As this would possibly result in WAV files which are not identical to the original tracks, you should leave this option disabled.

: '''Skip track extraction on read or sync errors'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will skip the extraction of the current track if a read or synchronisation error occurs. If there is a read/sync error during extraction, the rip can not be guaranteed to be accurate anymore. This way, you have to decide what is more important for you: If you think that a not accurate rip is better than no rip at all, then you can leave this option disabled. Due to EAC's advanced reading features, it is possible that there are no audible artifacts. In such a case, you should check the log file where all suspicious positions are listed. Listen for yourself if you can hear any artifacts. If not, this may be ok for you.
On the other hand, if an accurate rip is most important, then this option may be enabled so that EAC skips the track when the first read/sync error occurs. When this happens, the first thing to try is to clean the CD and give it another try. When this does not work either, the only solution would be to get another (scratch free) copy of the CD and try the extraction with this one.

: '''Skip track extraction after duration longer than X times realtime'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Due to EAC's advanced reading features, the reading procedure can last very long, especially on scatched CDs (in extreme cases this can last several hours). When this option is enabled and the ripping process takes longer than X times realtime, the affected track is skipped. It is recommended to leave this option disabled because it is likely that EAC can rip such a track even if this takes a long time.

: '''After each X mins of extraction, cool down the drive for Y mins'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

As already mentioned, the extraction of scatched CDs/tracks can last very long. This could possibly stress the drive used for extraction because of a lot of movement of the laser unit. So the whole procedure could also heat up the drive. This may decrease the reading abilities of this drive temporarily. So when you notice that your ripping drive gets unusually hot during difficult and long extraction processes, then it may be a good idea to enable this option. Otherwise you should leave this option disabled, because this will possibly lead to longer extraction times.

: '''Lock drive tray during extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC makes sure that the CD tray is not opened accidentally while ripping. Otherwise this will always result in an aborted extraction process, so leave this option enabled.

: '''Extractions and compression priority'''
:: ''(Default: Normal, '''Recommended: High''')''

With this setting the process priority of EAC and any external compressor during the extraction/compression is set. Setting this option to ''high'' could result in a little shorter ripping times. On the other hand, this could make other applications work "choppy". So if you plan to use other programs during ripping, leave this option as it is (''normal''), otherwise you can set it to ''high''.

: '''Error recovery priority'''
:: ''(Default: Medium, '''Recommended: High/Medium''')''

This setting specifies how many rereads will be done in a case of reading errors. Generally, if reading errors occur, EAC rereads these frames until eight out of 16 retries are identical ([http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/]). The ''error recovery priority'' now specifies, how many of these 16 retires are done (''low''/''medium''/''high'': 1/3/5). A visual representation can be found in the extraction status window: the number of red bars shown for error correction.

So changing this option to ''high'' lets EAC read bad frames more often. This could lead to a better error correction, but also increases the chance that errors slip through undetcted. This is beacuse EAC will assume that a frame was read correctly if there were eight matching reads (of 16) on that frame. If there is a consistent error, EAC is not able to recognize this. So to increase the chance that no errors going unreported, this setting could be left at ''medium''.

Because of the way EAC behaves, there can not be given a clear recommendation. You have to choose between better chance of detecting errors (''medium''), or chance of better error correction (''high'').

=General=
[[Image:EAC_options_General.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, General tab]]
In this tab, general EAC options are included. These do not affect the quality or the accuracy of the results produced by EAC. So on most options there is no clear recommendation possible. Just adjust these options as you need them.

: '''Use alternate CD play routines'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is only important for playing an audio CD using EAC. If it is enabled, EAC sends the audio data to the soundcard digitally, so no cable between the drive and the soundcard is needed. Otherwise, when this option is disabled, only the cable between drive and soundcard is used. Therefore, if such a cable is not installed and this option gets disabled, you will not be able to play a CD using EAC at all.

: '''Disable 'CD Autostart' for audio and data CDs while EAC running'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, the autostart for all drives is disabled while EAC is running. That means that no popups or media players are started automatically which could disturb EAC while ripping.

: '''On unknown CDs'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When a CD unknown to EAC is inserted in the drive and this setting is enabled, EAC can take the following actions:
* '''automatically access online freedb database''': EAC tries to find CD information in the freedb online database automatically. For this option to work, an e-mail adress has to be specified in the [[EAC freedb/Database Options|freedb/Database Options]].
* '''open CD information dialog''': With this option enabled, a pop up is presented to the user where the CD information can be inserted manually.

: '''Display times using frames'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option decides about how times are displayed in the main window. When this option is disabled, 1/100 seconds are used. Enable this setting so that all times are displayed in frames (1 frame equals 1/75 seconds). Time information in frames is generally more native to CDs, whereas the display of 1/100 seconds is likely to be rounded and not really exact. So it is recommended to leave this option enabled.

: '''Ask before overwriting files'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

EAC will always ask if existing files should be overwritten. To be sure that no important files are overwritten, this option should be left enabled.

: '''Correct bug of wrong filename order in Windows multiple file dialog'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

The Windows file selection box sometimes has a strange behavior to exchange the first an last track when multiple files are selected. Leave this option enabled to make sure EAC automatically corrects the file order.

: '''Show status dialog after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Enabling this setting lets EAC show a status dialog after extraction. Because this dialog can give you some important information, you should leave this option enabled.

: '''Beep after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If enabled, EAC will beep (PC speaker) when extraction finished. When you do not want to sit in front of your PC while ripping, this option may come in handy.

: '''Eject CD after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will eject the CD automatically when the extraction finished. When you move away from your PC while ripping, it may be a good idea to leave this option disabled.

: '''When using the power down feature'''

This setting controls what should happen if you tick the power down feature in the extraction dialog. Two options are avaiable:
* '''power down computer''' ''(Default: enabled)'': The computer is shut down after extraction has finished.
* '''restart computer''': The computer gets restarted after extraction.

: '''wait for external compressors'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option specifies if the shutdown or restart process should wait for any active external compressors when the power down feature in the extraction dialog is ticked. You should always leave this option enabled, because otherwise any external compressor can not finish its work before the shutdown/restart process.

: '''EAC language selection'''

This option controls the language settings of EAC. If there is a language setting available which equals the language of the operating system, this language is automatically selected at the first start of EAC.

=Tools=
[[Image:EAC_options_Tools.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Tools tab]]
Here the generation of CUE sheets, playlists and log files is configured. There are also settings available affecting the behaviour of an external compressor.

: '''Retrieve UPC/ISRC codes in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When generating CUE sheets for a CD and this option is enabled, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code UPC] (Universal Product Code = barcode) and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc ISRC] (International Standard Recording Code) codes are extracted from the CD and added to the CUE file. It can be quite time comsuming extracting these information from a CD and some CDs do not contain such information at all. But to collect as much information as possible from the CD, this option should be enabled (archiving purposes).

Note that this feature of EAC is reported not to work correctly with some drives. If you plan to let EAC create CUE sheets with UPC/ISRC, you should test this feature with your drive. Just open a generated CUE sheet with a text reader (e.g. Notepad) and check the information stated.

: '''Use CD-Text information in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If your drive supports CD-text, you should leave this option enabled. This will add TITLE and PERFORMER tags to the generated CUE sheet.

: '''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC will automatically create an .m3u playlist file which contains all selected tracks for this extraction. This comes in handy if you use your PC as primary source where most media players can use these playlist files.

: '''Write m3u playlist with extended information'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is greyed out until you enable the option ''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'' (see above). If enabled, EAC adds extended information (length, title and more) to the playlist file. All additional information are added as comments. If your media player can not handle these comments correctly, you should disable this option, otherwise leave it enabled.

: '''Automatically write status report after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC automatically writes a log file after extraction in the same directory as the extracted files. To be able to comprehend the extraction process of a certain CD, it may be a good idea to save these log files. However, even if this option is disabled, it is still possible to save a log file from the status dialog after extraction. Of course, then the corresponding option also has to be enabled in the ''General'' tab (''Show status dialog after extraction'').

: '''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this setting enabled, EAC starts an external compressor as soon as the first track was extracted and therefore the extraction and compressing processes are running simultaneously. Of course, this could lead to a time saving, but also can lead to some problems: it is more likely that errors during extraction/compressing occur on older PCs. So in general, you should leave this option disabled unless you have a dual/multi core CPU.

: '''Use X simultaneous external compressor thread(s)'''
:: ''(Default: 1)''

This option is greyed out until the option above (''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'') is enabled. It controls the number of simultaneous external compressors used by EAC. The more compressors are used simultaneously, the more likely are the problems mentioned above with parallel extraction and compressing. Again, if you have a dual/multi core CPU, it is fine to use this option.

: '''Do not open external compressor window'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC does not open an external compressor window. Because this way you are not able to see the status of the external compressor (and maybe error messages), this option should be left disbaled.

: '''Submit drive features after detection (but ask for permission)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Leving this option enabled, EAC will ask if it should submit the drive features (mostly offset values) after these were detected, e.g. by the wizard. In order to help other people who are not able to determine their drive's features, it is recommended to enable this setting. You can cancel the transfer of any data anyway, because EAC will always ask you before sending any data.

: '''Activate beginner mode, disable all advanced features'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When in beginner mode, EAC hides many options important for achieving the best possible results, so make sure that this option is disabled.

=Normalize=
[[Image:EAC_options_Normalize.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Normalize tab]]
This tab contains all settings regarding normalization of extracted music files.

: '''Normalize'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Normalizing is the process to change the volume of a track to a given maximum loudness and is mostly used to get all tracks of a CD or compilation to the same loundess level. Of course, this would change the original track. Because of this, make sure that this option stays disabled.

: '''Normalize to X%'''
:: ''(Default: 98%)''

This option is greyed out until the above option (''Normalize'') is enabled and represents the level of normalization. 100% would be maximum loudness, but to avoid clipping, you should set it a few percents lower (e.g. 98%).

: '''But only if peak level is smaller than X% or greater than Y%'''
:: ''(Default: 85%/99%)''

With this option you can select which tracks will be normalized. All tracks which are out of the range (smaller than X, or greater than Y) are normalized, all others will not be changed.

=Filename=
[[Image:EAC_options_Filename.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Filename tab]]
The resulting file names and directory structures can be configured in this tab.

: '''Naming scheme'''

A naming scheme for the resulting files can be specified here. There are many placeholders stated by the option dialog which can be used to build up a naming/directory scheme (for a directory structure, just use "\", as known from the windows explorer). The only limitation is that no absolute file paths (e.g. "C:\Music\%T") can be constructed. The reason is that when starting the extraction of a disc, EAC will either ask by a dialog box where the resulting files will be stored, or will use the predefined directory (depends on what option is enabled as ''Standard directory for extraction'' in the ''Directories'' tab). The directory stated in this dialog defines the absolute path. By putting together this path and the naming scheme stated in this tab, the concrete filenames will be generated.

: '''Use various artist naming scheme'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled and the ''Various Artists'' option box is ticked (in the EAC main window), the naming scheme stated below is used. If you want different naming schemes for one/various artist CDs, then you should enable this setting. The placeholders are the same as stated above (''Naming scheme'').

: '''Replace spaces by underscores'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Enabling this option will EAC let replace spaces in filenames by underscores.

=Catalog=
[[Image:EAC_options_Catalog.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Catalog tab]]
Catalog options which are applied when creating catalog samples (''Action'' -> ''Catalog Selected Tracks'') can be configured here. With this function, EAC can produce short samples of each track of a disc.

: '''Catalog file length (in seconds)'''

Defines the length of each catalog sample track in seconds.

: '''Catalog start position in a track (in seconds)'''

Specifies the start position of the catalog sample in a track in seconds. As many music titles are not very significant from the beginning of a track, it may be a good idea to let the catalog samples start somewhere in the middle of a track.

: '''Fade in length (in seconds)'''

If you want that the catalog sample tracks are faded in, enter a value greater than 0.

: '''Fade out length (in seconds)'''

The same as stated above (''Fade in length (in seconds)''), but concerning fade out.

=Directories=
[[Image:EAC_options_Directories.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Directories tab]]
The directory where the extracted music files will be placed can be configured here.

: '''Standard directory for extraction'''

This option decides whether the user is asked where to save the resulting files every time an extraction is started, or if a standard directory should be used.

* '''Ask every time (default showing last used directory)''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Any time an extraction starts, a dialog box appears asking for the directory to be used. This directory will be saved and used as default the next time this dialog box appears.
* '''Use this directory''': When always extracting in the same directory anyway, there is no need of the dialog box stated above. In this case, a predefined directory can be specified here.

=Write=
[[Image:EAC_options_Write.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Write tab]]
Contains all settings for writing audio CDs with EAC.

: '''Upper all characters (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

If this option is enabled, all characters contained in the CD-text are transformed to upper case. On some CD players, this may look a little better than text in upper-/lower case.

: '''Include artist in the CD-Text track entry (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some CD players will only show the track information of the CD-text. In such a case, the artist information will not be shown. If your CD player acts this way, you should enable this option so that the artist is swapped over into the track information. As an example "Bohemian Rhapsody" will become "Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody".

: '''Disable copy protection flag on adding audio files to the layout editor by default'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When enabled, the copy protection flag will be disabled by default for all added tracks in the write layout editor. Because you can still disable the copy protection flag in the write layout editor when needed (''Layout'' -> ''Edit selected indices...'' -> untick the ''Copy protected'' checkbox), it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use CDRDAO for writing in the EAC layout editor'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When writing CDs with EAC, there are two possibilities: On the one hand, EAC can start an external application called CDRDAO to write the CD. The general advantage of CDRDAO is the compatibility with many (and even older) CD-R drives. On the other hand, EAC can use its internal writing routines. These are said wo be a bit more stable (as they are internal), but also do not support that many drives.

Note that older versions of EAC came with two different installer packages: one with CDRDAO, the other one without. If you installed the version without CDRDAO, this option was greyed out. But since version 0.99 prebeta 3, there is only one installer available, which contains CDRDAO.

For more information on CDRDAO, see the [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage].

=Interface=
[[Image:EAC_options_Interface.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Interface tab]]
In this tab, the interface used for the communication between EAC and the CD drive can be confuigured.

: '''Use of SCSI interface'''
:: ''(Default: Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP, '''Recommended: Installed external ASPI interface''')''

An [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi ASPI] (Advanced SCSI Programming Interface) is used for communication between EAC and the used drive. Despite of the name, this interface is also used for communication with ATAPI (IDE) drives. EAC comes with a native Win32 interface for use with Windows NT/2000/XP. But in general it is not recommended to use this native interface because bugs and errors could not be excluded.

When no other ASPI interfaces are installed on the system, all other options are greyed out by default. To choose another option, another ASPI interface has to be installed. The one always recommended in conjunction with EAC is the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI Ahead Nero ASPI Driver]. Download the DLL (winaspi32.dll) and copy it into the EAC directory. Then start EAC and a choose the new option (''Installed external ASPI interface'') from this option tab.

The third (but not recommended) option is an external ASPI interface from VOB software. For this option to be available, you have to install the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI ASPI interface from VOB software] first.

Note that all changes made in this option tab require a restart of EAC to take effect.

=External links=
* [http://www.exactaudiocopy.de/en/index.php/overview/basic-technology/extraction-technology/ Exact Audio Copy: Extraction Technology]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code Wikipedia: Universal Product Code]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc Wikipedia: International Standard Recording Code]
* [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi Wikipedia: ASPI]

EAC Options (Legacy)

2008-01-13T22:45:32Z

Exec: New page: The '''EAC options dialog''' (shortcut: F9) offers several options for configuring EAC in general without focussing on drive or compression settings. ''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''...

The '''EAC options dialog''' (shortcut: F9) offers several options for configuring EAC in general without focussing on drive or compression settings.

''Used EAC version: V0.99 prebeta 3''

=Extraction=
[[Image:EAC_options_Extraction.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Extraction tab]]
This tab includes settings for the extraction of audio CDs.

: '''Fill up missing offset samples with silence'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''
In the case the drive is not capable of overreading into the leadin/leadout or overreading is disabled in the [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]], it is possible that some samples will be missing in the resulting WAV files. Note that only the first or last track of a CD is affected, depending on the drive having a negative or positive read offset. With this option enabled, these missing (offset) samples are filled with silence. This way, the correct length of the affected WAV files is maintained to get as close to the according original CD tracks as possible. If this option is disabled, some samples will possibly be missing in the resulting WAV files and it is likely that [[Accurate_Rip|Accurate Rip]] will report tracks as not accurately ripped (wrong checksums may be calculated because of these missing samples).

For this setting to work properly, the offset correction has to be configured correctly, so that EAC knows how many silent samples have to be added to which track (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]).

: '''No use of null samples for CRC calculations'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, null samples (silence) at the beginning and the end of a track will not be counted for CRC checksums. When this option is enabled and a track has silence at the beginning/end, this could lead to the same CRC checksums, even with different (or even wrong) drive offset values (see [[EAC_Drive_Options|EAC drive options]]). So when the drive offset is configured correctly, this option should be disabled to get comparable CRC checksums.

: '''Syncronize between tracks'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When ripping adjacent tracks of a CD and this option is enabled, EAC synchronizes between these tracks. This is important to avoid pops or gaps between tracks, so this option should be enabled.

: '''Delete leading and trailing silent blocks'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

If a track contains silence at the beginning and/or the end, EAC delets these silent blocks when this option is enabled. As this would possibly result in WAV files which are not identical to the original tracks, you should leave this option disabled.

: '''Skip track extraction on read or sync errors'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will skip the extraction of the current track if a read or synchronisation error occurs. If there is a read/sync error during extraction, the rip can not be guaranteed to be accurate anymore. This way, you have to decide what is more important for you: If you think that a not accurate rip is better than no rip at all, then you can leave this option disabled. Due to EAC's advanced reading features, it is possible that there are no audible artifacts. In such a case, you should check the log file where all suspicious positions are listed. Listen for yourself if you can hear any artifacts. If not, this may be ok for you.
On the other hand, if an accurate rip is most important, then this option may be enabled so that EAC skips the track when the first read/sync error occurs. When this happens, the first thing to try is to clean the CD and give it another try. When this does not work either, the only solution would be to get another (scratch free) copy of the CD and try the extraction with this one.

: '''Skip track extraction after duration longer than X times realtime'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Due to EAC's advanced reading features, the reading procedure can last very long, especially on scatched CDs (in extreme cases this can last several hours). When this option is enabled and the ripping process takes longer than X times realtime, the affected track is skipped. It is recommended to leave this option disabled because it is likely that EAC can rip such a track even if this takes a long time.

: '''After each X mins of extraction, cool down the drive for Y mins'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

As already mentioned, the extraction of scatched CDs/tracks can last very long. This could possibly stress the drive used for extraction because of a lot of movement of the laser unit. So the whole procedure could also heat up the drive. This may decrease the reading abilities of this drive temporarily. So when you notice that your ripping drive gets unusually hot during difficult and long extraction processes, then it may be a good idea to enable this option. Otherwise you should leave this option disabled, because this will possibly lead to longer extraction times.

: '''Lock drive tray during extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC makes sure that the CD tray is not opened accidentally while ripping. Otherwise this will always result in an aborted extraction process, so leave this option enabled.

: '''Extractions and compression priority'''
:: ''(Default: Normal, '''Recommended: High''')''

With this setting the process priority of EAC and any external compressor during the extraction/compression is set. Setting this option to ''high'' could result in a little shorter ripping times. On the other hand, this could make other applications work "choppy". So if you plan to use other programs during ripping, leace this option as it is (''normal''), otherwise you can set it to ''high''.

: '''Error recovery priority'''
:: ''(Default: Medium, '''Recommended: High''')''

This setting specifies how many rereads will be done in a case of reading errors. Changing this option to ''high'' leads to a better error correction. On the other side, the ripping process will last longer for scratched CDs. But nevertheless, it is recommended to set this option to ''high'' so that it is more likely that EAC can correct these errors.

=General=
[[Image:EAC_options_General.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, General tab]]
In this tab, general EAC options are included. These do not affect the quality or the accuracy of the results produced by EAC. So on most options there is no clear recommendation possible. Just adjust these options as you need them.

: '''Use alternate CD play routines'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is only important for playing an audio CD using EAC. If it is enabled, EAC sends the audio data to the soundcard digitally, so no cable between the drive and the soundcard is needed. Otherwise, when this option is disabled, only the cable between drive and soundcard is used. Therefore, if such a cable is not installed and this option gets disabled, you will not be able to play a CD using EAC at all.

: '''Disable 'CD Autostart' for audio and data CDs while EAC running'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled, the autostart for all drives is disabled while EAC is running. That means that no popups or media players are started automatically which could disturb EAC while ripping.

: '''On unknown CDs'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When a CD unknown to EAC is inserted in the drive and this setting is enabled, EAC can take the following actions:
* '''automatically access online freedb database''': EAC tries to find CD information in the freedb online database automatically. For this option to work, an e-mail adress has to be specified in the [[EAC freedb/Database Options|freedb/Database Options]].
* '''open CD information dialog''': With this option enabled, a pop up is presented to the user where the CD information can be inserted manually.

: '''Display times using frames'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option decides about how times are displayed in the main window. When this option is disabled, 1/100 seconds are used. Enable this setting so that all times are displayed in frames (1 frame equals 1/75 seconds). Time information in frames is generally more native to CDs, whereas the display of 1/100 seconds is likely to be rounded and not really exact. So it is recommended to leave this option enabled.

: '''Ask before overwriting files'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

EAC will always ask if existing files should be overwritten. To be sure that no important files are overwritten, this option should be left enabled.

: '''Correct bug of wrong filename order in Windows multiple file dialog'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

The Windows file selection box sometimes has a strange behavior to exchange the first an last track when multiple files are selected. Leave this option enabled to make sure EAC automatically corrects the file order.

: '''Show status dialog after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Enabling this setting lets EAC show a status dialog after extraction. Because this dialog can give you some important information, you should leave this option enabled.

: '''Beep after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If enabled, EAC will beep (PC speaker) when extraction finished. When you do not want to sit in front of your PC while ripping, this option may come in handy.

: '''Eject CD after extraction finished'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC will eject the CD automatically when the extraction finished. When you move away from your PC while ripping, it may be a good idea to leave this option disabled.

: '''When using the power down feature'''

This setting controls what should happen if you tick the power down feature in the extraction dialog. Two options are avaiable:
* '''power down computer''' ''(Default: enabled)'': The computer is shut down after extraction has finished.
* '''restart computer''': The computer gets restarted after extraction.

: '''wait for external compressors'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option specifies if the shutdown or restart process should wait for any active external compressors when the power down feature in the extraction dialog is ticked. You should always leave this option enabled, because otherwise any external compressor can not finish its work before the shutdown/restart process.

: '''EAC language selection'''

This option controls the language settings of EAC. If there is a language setting available which equals the language of the operating system, this language is automatically selected at the first start of EAC.

=Tools=
[[Image:EAC_options_Tools.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Tools tab]]
Here the generation of CUE sheets, playlists and log files is configured. There are also settings available affecting the behaviour of an external compressor.

: '''Retrieve UPC/ISRC codes in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When generating CUE sheets for a CD and this option is enabled, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code UPC] (Universal Product Code = barcode) and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc ISRC] (International Standard Recording Code) codes are extracted from the CD and added to the CUE file. It can be quite time comsuming extracting these information from a CD and some CDs do not contain such information at all. But to collect as much information as possible from the CD, this option should be enabled (archiving purposes).

: '''Use CD-Text information in CUE sheet generation'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

If your drive supports CD-text, you should leave this option enabled. This will add TITLE and PERFORMER tags to the generated CUE sheet.

: '''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC will automatically create an .m3u playlist file which contains all selected tracks for this extraction. This comes in handy if you use your PC as primary source where most media players can use these playlist files.

: '''Write m3u playlist with extended information'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

This option is greyed out until you enable the option ''Create '.m3u' playlist on extraction'' (see above). If enabled, EAC adds extended information (length, title and more) to the playlist file. All additional information are added as comments. If your media player can not handle these comments correctly, you should disable this option, otherwise leave it enabled.

: '''Automatically write status report after extraction'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When enabled, EAC automatically writes a log file after extraction in the same directory as the extracted files. To be able to comprehend the extraction process of a certain CD, it may be a good idea to save these log files. However, even if this option is disabled, it is still possible to save a log file from the status dialog after extraction. Of course, then the corresponding option also has to be enabled in the ''General'' tab (''Show status dialog after extraction'').

: '''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this setting enabled, EAC starts an external compressor as soon as the first track was extracted and therefore the extraction and compressing processes are running simultaneously. Of course, this could lead to a time saving, but also can lead to some problems: it is more likely that errors during extraction/compressing occur on older PCs. So in general, you should leave this option disabled unless you have a dual core CPU.

: '''Use X simultaneous external compressor thread(s)'''
:: ''(Default: 1)''

This option is greyed out until the option above (''On extraction, start external compressors queued in the background'') is enabled. It controls the number of simultaneous external compressors used by EAC. The more compressors are used simultaneously, the more likely are the problems mentioned above with parallel extraction and compressing.

: '''Do not open external compressor window'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

With this option enabled, EAC does not open an external compressor window. Because this way you are not able to see the status of the external compressor (and maybe error messages), this option should be left disbaled.

: '''Submit drive features after detection (but ask for permission)'''
:: ''(Default: enabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

Leving this option enabled, EAC will ask if it should submit the drive features (mostly offset values) after these were detected, e.g. by the wizard. In order to help other people who are not able to determine their drive's features, it is recommended to enable this setting. You can cancel the transfer of any data anyway, because EAC will always ask you before sending any data.

: '''Activate beginner mode, disable all advanced features'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When in beginner mode, EAC hides many options important for achieving the best possible results, so make sure that this option is disabled.

=Normalize=
[[Image:EAC_options_Normalize.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Normalize tab]]
This tab contains all settings regarding normalization of extracted music files.

: '''Normalize'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Normalizing is the process to change the volume of a track to a given maximum loudness and is mostly used to get all tracks of a CD or compilation to the same loundess level. Of course, this would change the original track. Because of this, make sure that this option stays disabled.

: '''Normalize to X%'''
:: ''(Default: 98%)''

This option is greyed out until the above option (''Normalize'') is enabled and represents the level of normalization. 100% would be maximum loudness, but to avoid clipping, you should set it a few percents lower (e.g. 98%).

: '''But only if peak level is smaller than X% or greater than Y%'''
:: ''(Default: 85%/99%)''

With this option you can select which tracks will be normalized. All tracks which are out of the range (smaller than X, or greater than Y) are normalized, all others will not be changed.

=Filename=
[[Image:EAC_options_Filename.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Filename tab]]
The resulting file names and directory structures can be configured in this tab.

: '''Naming scheme'''

A naming scheme for the resulting files can be specified here. There are many placeholders stated by the option dialog which can be used to build up a naming/directory scheme (for a directory structure, just use "\", as known from the windows explorer). The only limitation is that no absolute file paths (e.g. "C:\Music\%T") can be constructed. The reason is that when starting the extraction of a disc, EAC will either ask by a dialog box where the resulting files will be stored, or will use the predefined directory (depends on what option is enabled as ''Standard directory for extraction'' in the ''Directories'' tab). The directory stated in this dialog defines the absolute path. By putting together this path and the naming scheme stated in this tab, the concrete filenames will be generated.

: '''Use various artist naming scheme'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When this option is enabled and the ''Various Artists'' option box is ticked (in the EAC main window), the naming scheme stated below is used. If you want different naming schemes for one/various artist CDs, then you should enable this setting. The placeholders are the same as stated above (''Naming scheme'').

: '''Replace spaces by underscores'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Enabling this option will EAC let replace spaces in filenames by underscores.

=Catalog=
[[Image:EAC_options_Catalog.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Catalog tab]]
Catalog options which are applied when creating catalog samples (''Action'' -> ''Catalog Selected Tracks'') can be configured here. With this function, EAC can produce short samples of each track of a disc.

: '''Catalog file length (in seconds)'''

Defines the length of each catalog sample track in seconds.

: '''Catalog start position in a track (in seconds)'''

Specifies the start position of the catalog sample in a track in seconds. As many music titles are not very significant from the beginning of a track, it may be a good idea to let the catalog samples start somewhere in the middle of a track.

: '''Fade in length (in seconds)'''

If you want that the catalog sample tracks are faded in, enter a value greater than 0.

: '''Fade out length (in seconds)'''

The same as stated above (''Fade in length (in seconds)''), but concerning fade out.

=Directories=
[[Image:EAC_options_Directories.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Directories tab]]
The directory where the extracted music files will be placed can be configured here.

: '''Standard directory for extraction'''

This option decides whether the user is asked where to save the resulting files every time an extraction is started, or if a standard directory should be used.

* '''Ask every time (default showing last used directory)''' ''(Default: enabled)'': Any time an extraction starts, a dialog box appears asking for the directory to be used. This directory will be saved and used as default the next time this dialog box appears.
* '''Use this directory''': When always extracting in the same directory anyway, there is no need of the dialog box stated above. In this case, a predefined directory can be specified here.

=Write=
[[Image:EAC_options_Write.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Write tab]]
Contains all settings for writing audio CDs with EAC.

: '''Upper all characters (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled)''

If this option is enabled, all characters contained in the CD-text are transformed to upper case. On some CD players, this may look a little better than text in upper-/lower case.

: '''Include artist in the CD-Text track entry (on writing)'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

Some CD players will only show the track information of the CD-text. In such a case, the artist information will not be shown. If your CD player acts this way, you should enable this option so that the artist is swapped over into the track information. As an example "Bohemian Rhapsody" will become "Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody".

: '''Disable copy protection flag on adding audio files to the layout editor by default'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: disabled''')''

When enabled, the copy protection flag will be disabled by default for all added tracks in the write layout editor. Because you can still disable the copy protection flag in the write layout editor when needed (''Layout'' -> ''Edit selected indices...'' -> untick the ''Copy protected'' checkbox), it is recommended to leave this option disabled.

: '''Use CDRDAO for writing in the EAC layout editor'''
:: ''(Default: disabled, '''Recommended: enabled''')''

When writing CDs with EAC, there are two possibilities: On the one hand, EAC can start an external application called CDRDAO to write the CD. The general advantage of CDRDAO is the compatibility with many (and even older) CD-R drives. On the other hand, EAC can use its internal writing routines. These are said wo be a bit more stable (as they are internal), but also do not support that many drives.

Note that older versions of EAC came with two different installer packages: one with CDRDAO, the other one without. If you installed the version without CDRDAO, this option was greyed out. But since version 0.99 prebeta 3, there is only one installer available, which contains CDRDAO.

For more information on CDRDAO, see the [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage].

=Interface=
[[Image:EAC_options_Interface.png|thumb|right|Recommended settings EAC options, Interface tab]]
In this tab, the interface used for the communication between EAC and the CD drive can be confuigured.

: '''Use of SCSI interface'''
:: ''(Default: Native Win32 interface for Win NT/2000/XP, '''Recommended: Installed external ASPI interface''')''

An [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi ASPI] (Advanced SCSI Programming Interface) is used for communication between EAC and the used drive. Despite of the name, this interface is also used for communication with ATAPI (IDE) drives. EAC comes with a native Win32 interface for use with Windows NT/2000/XP. But in general it is not recommended to use this native interface because bugs and errors could not be excluded.

When no other ASPI interfaces are installed on the system, all other options are greyed out by default. To choose another option, another ASPI interface has to be installed. The one always recommended in conjunction with EAC is the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI Ahead Nero ASPI Driver]. Download the DLL (winaspi32.dll) and copy it into the EAC directory. Then start EAC and a choose the new option (''Installed external ASPI interface'') from this option tab.

The third (but not recommended) option is an external ASPI interface from VOB software. For this option to be available, you have to install the [http://wiki.hydrogenaudio.org/index.php?title=Download_page#ASPI ASPI interface from VOB software] first.

Note that all changes made in this option tab require a restart of EAC to take effect.

=External links=
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Product_Code Wikipedia: Universal Product Code]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isrc Wikipedia: International Standard Recording Code]
* [http://cdrdao.sourceforge.net/ CDRDAO homepage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspi Wikipedia: ASPI]

File:EAC options Interface.png

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Exec: EAC options, Interface tab (recommended settings)

EAC options, Interface tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC options Write.png

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Exec: EAC options, Write tab (recommended settings)

EAC options, Write tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC options Directories.png

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Exec: EAC options, Directories tab (recommended settings)

EAC options, Directories tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC options Catalog.png

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Exec: EAC options, Catalog tab (recommended settings)

EAC options, Catalog tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC options Filename.png

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Exec: EAC options, Filename tab (recommended settings)

EAC options, Filename tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC options Normalize.png

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Exec: EAC options, Normalize tab (recommended settings)

EAC options, Normalize tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC options Tools.png

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Exec: EAC options, Tools tab (recommended settings)

EAC options, Tools tab (recommended settings)

EAC configuration

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Exec:

The '''configuration of Exact Audio Copy''' is the next step after installing [[EAC]]. Especially when you prefer high quality rips, a correct configuration is essential. But for the first-time user of EAC this might be a little difficult, because there are many options available with only few or no information about how to configure these. Bear in mind that there is not always the correct configuration which fits for all systems/purposes. An example would be the drive configuration, where the correct settings depend on the drive used.

So all these guides were created with the following in mind:
* Configure EAC so that high quality and accurate rips are possible.
* Provide the user also with background information about the technologies/functions behind the options so that he can decide on his own how to correctly set up EAC, rather than only running through these guides setting all the options as indicated.

The following guides are aligned with the EAC option menus which can be accessed through the EAC menu item:

*[[EAC Options]]
*[[EAC Drive Options|Drive Options]]
*[[EAC Compression Options|Compression Options]]
*[[EAC freedb/Database Options|freedb/Database Options]]
*[[EAC WAV Editor Options|WAV Editor Options]]
*[[EAC Configuration Wizard]]

==Addtional Reading==
* [[Exact_Audio_Copy|Exact Audio Copy]]

EAC configuration

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Exec: typo

The '''configuration of Exact Audio Copy''' is the next step after installing [[EAC]]. Especially when you prefer high quality rips, a correct configuration is essential. But for the first-time user of EAC this might be a little difficult, because there are many options available with only few or no information about how to configure these. Bear in mind that there is not always the correct configuration which fits for all systems/purposes. An example would be the drive configuration, where the correct settings depend on the drive used.

So all these guides were created with the following in mind:
* Configure EAC so that high quality and accurate rips are possible.
* Provide the user also with background information about the technologies/functions behind the options so that he can decide on his own how to correctly set up EAC, rather than only running through these guides setting all the options as indicated.

The following guides are aligned with the EAC option menus which can be accessed through the EAC menu item:

*[[EAC Options]]
*[[EAC Drive Options|Drive Options]]
*[[EAC Compression Options|Compression Options]]
*[[EAC freedb / Database Options|freedb / Database Options]]
*[[EAC WAV Editor Options|WAV Editor Options]]
*[[EAC Configuration Wizard]]

==Addtional Reading==
* [[Exact_Audio_Copy|Exact Audio Copy]]

File:EAC options General.png

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Exec: EAC options, General tab (recommended settings)

EAC options, General tab (recommended settings)

File:EAC options Extraction.png

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Exec: EAC options, Extraction tab (recommended settings)

EAC options, Extraction tab (recommended settings)