I'm not a large scale CD ripper but over the last few years have been making CD copies every now and then. The combination of using EAC in secure mode for ripping the contents to a disc image and then low-speed burning the image using a Nero version has worked fine. Most discs have copied just fine regardless of a copy protection. Now over the last few months I've encountered several discs that the EAC just can't rip in secure mode. I guess the newer copy control mechanisms are better. I wouldn't wish to begin using burst mode and doing some crc checking, but is that currently the best way to copy those CC discs? Any new rippers developed as the control mechanisms evolve? How is it that you guys rip today?

In a related question I'd like to know if cdex really doesn't contain the option to rip to an image file or haven't I just found it?

most copy protected CDs can be ripped securely just by turning off C2 protection. I have 2 discs which won't work at all though... for those I'd recommend emailing the label. At least EMI will offer to send you replacements.

Do you mean just disabling the C2 in EAC's drive option? In that case it's already off on both of my burners without any help.

In your case, it could just be a drive issue. Older(cdrom) drives tend to do well with alot of copy protections.