RazorLame help, Trying to convert FLAC to MP3 Options

[CGC]

Hi,

I am new to this forum and to the use of these software programs. I need some guidance.

My intent is to convert my CD collection, first to FLAC then to MP3. I have read a lot on the subject, maybe too much as it is starting to confuse me, but my goal is to create the best possible MP3 files I can. I am not concerned about file size.

I believe I have successfully setup EAC andhave converted a couple of test CDs to FLAC. I then installed RazorLame and the latest version of LAME within the same folder.

Not real confident at the RazorLame settings but I believe I have it set to the best VBR (320) settings. However, When I attempt to add the FLAC files to RazorLame, nothing appears within the program. I used the program's 'Add File' procedure and also tried to drag and drop the FLAC files into RazorLame to no avail. Nothing appears in the program.

Probably something obvious but the reason is escaping me. Thanks in advance for any help which can be provided to this novice.

Chris

[greynol]

Different programs might present different interfaces. The best programs are the ones either give you full control or will present you with the simplest options that correspond exactly to the guidelines set forth in our wiki without adding extra things without your knowledge.

I don't know where you read that EAC isn't great for creating mp3s. It can be a bit complicated if you want to encode flac and mp3 at the same time and do other things like grab artwork and do replaygain but many people seem to manage ok with applications like REACT. When it comes to just doing mp3s, EAC works very well all by itself.

This post has been edited by greynol: Feb 2 2010, 20:40

[CGC]

Different programs might present different interfaces. The best programs are the ones either give you full control or will present you with the simplest options that correspond exactly to the guidelines set forth in our wiki without adding extra things without your knowledge.

I don't know where you read that EAC isn't great for creating mp3s. It can be a bit complicated if you want to encode flac and mp3 at the same time and do other things like grab artwork and do replaygain but many people seem to manage ok with applications like REACT. When it comes to just doing mp3s, EAC works very well all by itself.

I believe I got that info from the Radified Guide to Ripping... Maybe it is dated but I got the impression that it is most beneficial to first rip to a lossless format such as FLAC. Then convert to MP3 using LAME and an accompanying program such as Foobar200 or RazorLame. I would then burn the result to either a CD to play in the car or to a DVD for extended play in the house. I had not heard of these other programs but will certainly look into them. I need to learn and I have not grasped it all yet.

Can you suggest a good start-to-finish process?