Ripping Flac: Single-File versus Track-by-Track, Any thoughts on the benefits/detractions from both ... Options

[thornomad]

Hi,

I am trying to decide if I would rather rip my CDs to a single FLAC file w/embedded cuesheet or to individual FLAC files (track-by-track). Ripping to a single file seems to make the most sense for archiving/backup purposes -- I can easily recreate the CD and encode to other formats as needed later. But ripping to individual track-by-track files seems to provide more options in terms of playback and tagging.

Originally I had thought I would just archive my CD collection to single FLAC files and rip MP3s from them for every day listening -- but the more I think about it (and in preperation for getting a SqueezeBox) I wonder if I shouldn't be using my FLAC files for home listening and rip smaller MP3 files for my iPod (headphone and car usage). This would give me more space on my iPod and better quality at home -- instead of trying to get them both out of the same format.

My concern with individual FLAC files is the seperating of tracks ... espeicaly tracks that require gapless playback. Am I going to risk/lose anything by doing this in the long run (problems with gapless playback or burning to a CD )? Is it safer to do a single-FLAC file and sacrifice placyback options ? Thoughts?

Thanks,
Damon

PS: I am a Mac/Linux user.