Help - Search - Members - Calendar
Full Version: XLD Requested Features List
Hydrogenaudio Forums > CD-R and Audio Hardware > CD Hardware/Software
Pages: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
macman4hire
It has been astonishing to witness the rapid development of this incredible piece of software. The responsiveness and quickness of the developer tmkk to incorporate new features into XLD has made this a true user driven application. tmkk's obvious passion and dedication to his project is evident in the extraordinary gift he has given the Mac community in XLD. To help better organize the vast amount of information being posted I will try to maintain and update a list of new feature suggestions. If a HA member decides to suggest and post a new a feature it would make sense to post it in one location. Once again thank you tmkk for this monumental achievement in Mac software development.

After reading this thread please check the XLD Master Thread List for other important XLD threads.

Click here to view the Mac CD Ripper Comparison Chart to familiarize yourself with XLD's feature base.

Feature Suggestions

Allow album art to be automatically saved to output folder as a jpg instead of being embedded in output file(s).
I will implement this, but priority is low.
Quote from tmkk XLD developer

I would love to be able to convert whole folders and nested subfolders of audio files. Currently, you have to drop the audio files themselves on the application.
I will implement this feature.
Quote from tmkk XLD developer


Ability save 10 ripping presets based on the selections of the four preference tabs, this feature would include different drive models used on a system. Example Preset 1 SONY DVD RW DW-D150A would recall the four preference tabs assigned to it. Preset 2 HP 7500 Plus would recall the four preference tabs assigned to it. Preset 3 HP 7500 Plus would recall the four preference tabs assigned to it. In this feature a drive should have the ability for several preset settings base what is selected in th four preference tabs for instance in our example Preset 2 may have FLAC with CDParanoia with log report. ect. while Preset 3 has selected Lame MP3 without CDParanoia with no log report ect.

Automatic detection of the "Read sample offset correction values"... Unlike Windows, Macs are built with very controled hardware and it would not be difficult to build a database of CD/DVD drive offsets for different models of Mac drives...

Add ability to READ noncompliant cue sheets... Currently they can be generated during ripping (and that's GREAT!), but it would be nice if we could read them too...
These features are added (or already in) my working list. The upper one has higher priority (or easy to implement).
Quote from tmkk XLD developer

An option to choose to rip by sector number and/or duration, ΰ la cdparanoia III 9.8. Say you want to rip only the first 1:02 seconds of a track... That sort of thing.

Option for it to automagically query its databases for metadata, rather than having to be told to go look.
These features will be implemented (priority is low).
Quote from tmkk XLD developer


Add option to automatically save a M3U file, for the folks who need them.

Add option to "Always ask" in the Output Directory preferences...
MacMelo contacted tmkk about these features and tmkk told him these will be implemented as soon as other more important ones are done.

Completed Addition of Suggestions and Development Explanations

XLD now always saves a logfile in the same directory as ripped files
Features added to XLD Version 20080925:
Previous versions of XLD didn't, but would it be possible to copy over ALL tags when transcoding from one format to another? Even non-standard ones?...Or at least the tags that iTunes can/will append to files it recognises (e.g. ALBUMSORTORDER, ITUNESCOMPILATION, etc.)
ALL is impossible, because the way to store the entry of metadata item in MP4 metadata and ID3 tag (4 bytes binary) differs from the way in ape tag and vorbiscomment (unlimited(?) length text). If you want me to do this, please list the all tags that should be supported by XLD.
Quote from tmkk XLD developer


Also, since the option exists to have XLD add the file to the itunes library, there's no need to have a 2nd copy of the file. This occurs when itunes copies the file when adding to its library and then the file created by XLD is left over. It would be nice to have an option to automatically delete the second copy of the file that XLD creates if you have itunes set to copy files into the library.
I think this option is a little dangerous, because adding to the library sometimes fails due to simultaneous access during multi-threaded conversion (and iTunes does not support the all formats from XLD).
Quote from tmkk XLD developer


Give us an option to automatically not use CD Paranoia when there is an AccurateRip DB entry present. In other words it shoudl function how DBPA CD Ripper does... Rip in burst mode first, then if there is a mismatch switch over to secure ripping. Right now with my current drive I am seeing a rip speed of less than 2.0x
To add that option is easy, but it's complicated to implement a feature to switch automatically to another mode. I may implement, but it will take a long time. Until then, please do manually.
Quote from tmkk XLD developer


Eliminiate the multiple windows. Having 3 windows open just to start ripping, edit metadata and monitor progress is rather annoying.
Currently I have no plan to change the interface.
Quote from tmkk XLD developer


Add the ability when using simultaneous codec conversion to choose the type of output for each format selected such as how the CD is to be ripped( Include pregap, Exclude pregap or Save as a single file +cue) while having independent control of the Format of filename. An example would be to rip a CD with the 1st format as FLAC file, selecting a single file +cue, with Format of filename output as %A/%T/%f/%T. The 2nd format as an AAC file, selecting to Include pregap, with the Format of filename output as %A/%T/%f/%n %t. Both formats should have the ability to share common folders in Format of filename.
The current architecture of XLD doesn't allow to do this. If this is to be implemented, it will be the distant future.
Quote from tmkk XLD developer


Place all of the AccurateRip results at the bottom of the log report instead of underneath each track listing similar to EAC. This would allow quick review of AccurateRip results!
I'll consider if there are many requests about this.
Quote from tmkk XLD developer


Indicate the setting of the "Strength of cache defeating ability" feature in the log report

Indicate which version of CD Paranoia was used during ripping in the log report

In the application window place reminder after “Exclude pregap from the output” button that you loose the ability to compare your selected tracks to the AccurateRip data base.

Logical output folder creation based on searched metadata. Example main folder=Artist, sub folder 1=Album, sub folder 2=codec type

Simultaneous Multiple Codec Conversions Example FLAC and AAC being converted at the same time to be saved in different folders labeled by the type of codec outputted

Add the cache analysis option to run on XLD
Feature added to XLD Version 20080916

Added ability to switch between using both CD Paranoia II and III.
Feature added to XLD Version 20080914 (90.0)

Update the CD Paranoia mode to the latest stable released version of III 10.2

Added "Check all items" and "Uncheck all items" in the context menu of the trac
Feature added to XLD Version 20080913 (89.0)

A "compare WAV" feature like EAC.
I can't find a clear reason to implement this feature in XLD. XLD is an audio converter software.
Quote from tmkk XLD developer

Automatic album art downloading feature now can be disabled from CDDB menu

Ability to load album art work when Gracenote tags are used without changing the Gracenote tags. Just disable all Query Items under CDDB menu except Cover Art

Added option to modify a size of padding section in FLAC encoder

Added save button in Log window
Features added to XLD Version 20080912 (88.0)

Fixing the "detect pregap" hangup on CD Extra discs on G5 (and maybe G4) machines.
Problem fixed in XLD Version 20080910

CD Writer with write offset possibly using cdr tools

Edit FLAC Metadata without reconverting the whole FLAC file
XLD is not a CD writer or tag editor, but a audio converter. The priority to implement this feature is quite low.
Quote from tmkk XLD develper


Incorporate AccurateRip submissions, so that XLD users can help the AccurateRip database to grow...
It would not be possible to submit to AR without the use of AccurateRip.dll, there are many 'attacks' on the database where rouge data is submitted (sometimes even doc files mangled into AR results), deliberate attempts to pollute the database, so we will not be opening up the submission details.
Quote from Spoon accurate developer

Regarding some of the latest features (checking existing rips against AccurateRip; offset correction of existing rips), I may be missing something, but it seems to me that a cue file is needed to use both functions. If that's so, it would be nice if we could do it even without a cue, just by dragging the FLACs to a queue window, or something like that... If I misunderstood, I apologiza... I haven't fully explored these features yet...
AccurateRip querying can't be performed without the whole length of the disc, so it is not possible with a separated track file itself.
Quote from tmkk XLD developer

Newly Suggested Features

Add to log the peak level for each track (EAC log does).
Apparently CDs from different pressings, even though from the same master, can have different CRCs. They would have the same peak levels so that info in the log could aid verification.

Add the ability to search albumartexchange.com for album art. This site has higher resolution album art images that have been cleaned up. The Album Art Exchange database of album art seems to growing at a rapid pace. I think this would a great asset to add to XLD allowing the user to get retrieve more consistent quality album art.

Ability to switch to Gracenote info if you already used freedb.
Although the Gracenote feature is fairly idiot proof once you know to have iTunes open, I'm stuck with a lot of freedb tags in XLD that I can't seem to replace with the much better Gracenote offerings.

It would be nice if XLD would save downloaded/modified metadata to its OWN database for retrieval later. As it stands, if XLD hangs during a rip, and has to be shut down, any modifications made to downloaded metadata have too be re-entered... which is time-consuming.

The ability to cancel or skip the pregap detection when mounting a disc would be nice. Maybe having the option to detect the pre-gap AFTER editing metadata, etc.

When transcoding individual files have XLD respect the Format of filename structure.

Make user definable offsets part of the auto offset function. I just got a drive that isn't included, and I really miss the nice brainless quality of the auto setting.

I'd like to suggest a "total track" field among the tags, so that when importing to audio players it will detail, for example, "Track 5 of 17." i've also found that although there is a "disc total" field, the setting does not save correctly (at least in lame mp3.) if you have the time, would you please solve this?

Ability to use customized switches under a selected format(FLAC, WavPack, Lame, Ect.)

Place the format section drop down menu in XLD's main application window(the window with decode button) to help avoid the chance of having selected the wrong format from the previous encoding session.

That is confusing many people into believing that AR is "suggesting" that changes are required. Several people have written to me asking me why the log is "suggesting" they change the offsets.
I think it would be much less confusing (and much more accurate) if the log were reworded to read as 'List of alternate offset correction values'.

A good one button "cancel" option that will get out of the endless hang situation, Also just to easily cancel a rip you just started with some wrong settings.
My external drive also disappears in the hang situations, and needs to be disconnected or restarted to show up again - if that can be fixed.
Above feature suggestions are awaiting answers on status.


Latest XLD Version 20080926 (93.3)
XLD release notes
tim.lance
Add multiple output processes a la Max. I often have occasion to go to FLAC, ALAC, and AAC and love doing it in one fell swoop with Max. More, to be able to choose different output locations for these formats.
macman4hire
QUOTE (tim.lance @ Sep 8 2008, 20:50) *
Add multiple output processes a la Max. I often have occasion to go to FLAC, ALAC, and AAC and love doing it in one fell swoop with Max. More, to be able to choose different output locations for these formats.

tim.lance
I think that is what is meant by Simultaneous Codec Conversions. I inserted the word multiple and gave an example to hopefully clear up any ambiguity. Thanks
MacMelo
@macman4hire: I think it would be better to remove the "codebox" tag, so that the entire list can remain visible at all times...


Feature Suggestions:

1. Automatic detection of the "Read sample offset correction values"... Unlike Windows, Macs are built with very controled hardware and it would not be difficult to build a database of CD/DVD drive offsets for different models of Mac drives...

2. I would like to be able to save different rip presets... something like you suggested regarding different drives, but I would like to be able to save, say, 10 presets even if I have only 1 drive (1 for FLACs, 1 for ALACs, one for MP3, etc etc)

3. The simultaneous codec conversions are a must have feature... Seriously... And with the option to save to different locations, etc etc...

4. Incorporate AccurateRip submissions, so that XLD users can help the AccurateRip database to grow...

5. Add ability to READ noncompliant cue sheets... Currently they can be generated during ripping (and that's GREAT!), but it would be nice if we could read them too...

6. Regarding some of the latest features (checking existing rips against AccurateRip; offset correction of existing rips), I may be missing something, but it seems to me that a cue file is needed to use both functions. If that's so, it would be nice if we could do it even without a cue, just by dragging the FLACs to a queue window, or something like that... If I misunderstood, I apologiza... I haven't fully explored these features yet...
macman4hire
QUOTE (MacMelo @ Sep 8 2008, 22:12) *
@macman4hire: I think it would be better to remove the "codebox" tag, so that the entire list can remain visible at all times...


Feature Suggestions:

1. Automatic detection of the "Read sample offset correction values"... Unlike Windows, Macs are built with very controled hardware and it would not be difficult to build a database of CD/DVD drive offsets for different models of Mac drives...

2. I would like to be able to save different rip presets... something like you suggested regarding different drives, but I would like to be able to save, say, 10 presets even if I have only 1 drive (1 for FLACs, 1 for ALACs, one for MP3, etc etc)

3. The simultaneous codec conversions are a must have feature... Seriously... And with the option to save to different locations, etc etc...

4. Incorporate AccurateRip submissions, so that XLD users can help the AccurateRip database to grow...

5. Add ability to READ noncompliant cue sheets... Currently they can be generated during ripping (and that's GREAT!), but it would be nice if we could read them too...

6. Regarding some of the latest features (checking existing rips against AccurateRip; offset correction of existing rips), I may be missing something, but it seems to me that a cue file is needed to use both functions. If that's so, it would be nice if we could do it even without a cue, just by dragging the FLACs to a queue window, or something like that... If I misunderstood, I apologiza... I haven't fully explored these features yet...

MacMelo I took your suggestion removing the codebox much better presentation. I added your ideas to the suggestion list. I took the liberty of combining your idea number 6. to my idea and hopefully merged them into a coherent explanation.
Pepzhez
Well, tmkk has given us so much lately, I'd feel a bit guilty demanding more. Still, if we're going to play that game, I'd start with a few relatively minor requests:

1. Fixing the "detect pregap" hangup on CD Extra discs on G5 (and maybe G4) machines.

2. A "select all " and "deselect" all option on the track list display.

3. An option to choose to rip by sector number and/or duration, ΰ la cdparanoia III 9.8. Say you want to rip only the first 1:02 seconds of a track... That sort of thing.

4. A "compare WAV" feature like EAC.

All of this would be quite nice to have. At the pace tmkk has been going, I'm sure we'll have all this and more very soon.
macman4hire
QUOTE (Pepzhez @ Sep 9 2008, 02:02) *
Well, tmkk has given us so much lately, I'd feel a bit guilty demanding more. Still, if we're going to play that game, I'd start with a few relatively minor requests:

1. Fixing the "detect pregap" hangup on CD Extra discs on G5 (and maybe G4) machines.

2. A "select all " and "deselect" all option on the track list display.

3. An option to choose to rip by sector number and/or duration, ΰ la cdparanoia III 9.8. Say you want to rip only the first 1:02 seconds of a track... That sort of thing.

4. A "compare WAV" feature like EAC.

All of this would be quite nice to have. At the pace tmkk has been going, I'm sure we'll have all this and more very soon.

Pepzhez no one is demanding more! This thread is just an attempt to unite the minds of all the XLD users and to give tmkk the opportunity to further improve on the best software application on the Mac. This list is not an attempt to pressure the tmkk or the development pace. I do not code and organizing this list is something I can contribute. It is the least I can do after all the work tmkk has put into XLD. If tmkk never added another feature or line of code I am truly grateful for what he has given us. I hope you and everyone now understands my motivation for creating this list.

I placed your feature suggestions on the list. Thanks
macman4hire
Suggested features update tmkk emailed this information.

In the application window place reminder after “Exclude pregap from the output” button that you loose the ability to compare your selected tracks to the AccurateRip data base.

Ability to turn off the automatic art work feature.

Ability to load album art work when Gracenote tags are used without changing the Gracenote tags. iTunes will not allow you to download album artwork. The download feature in iTunes will work only after an import to iTunes.

Option to save log when using the Check file with AccurateRip feature

Option to pad FLAC files for the ability to later add album art or extra metadata

Logical output folder creation based on searched metadata. Example main folder=Artist, sub folder 1=Album, sub folder 2=codec type

Simultaneous Multiple Codec Conversions Example FLAC and AAC being converted at the same time to be saved in different folders labeled by the type of codec outputted

ability save 10 ripping presets based on the selections of the four preference tabs, this feature would include different drive models used on a system. Example Preset 1 SONY DVD RW DW-D150A would recall the four preference tabs assigned to it. Preset 2 HP 7500 Plus would recall the four preference tabs assigned to it. Preset 3 HP 7500 Plus would recall the four preference tabs assigned to it. In this feature a drive should have the ability for several preset settings base what is selected in th four preference tabs for instance in our example Preset 2 may have FLAC with CDParanoia with log report. ect. while Preset 3 has selected Lame MP3 without CDParanoia with no log report ect.

Automatic detection of the "Read sample offset correction values"... Unlike Windows, Macs are built with very controled hardware and it would not be difficult to build a database of CD/DVD drive offsets for different models of Mac drives...

Add ability to READ noncompliant cue sheets... Currently they can be generated during ripping (and that's GREAT!), but it would be nice if we could read them too...

These features are added (or already in) my working list. The upper one has higher priority (or easy to implement).


CD Writer with write offset possibly using cdr tools
Edit FLAC Metadata without reconverting the whole FLAC file

XLD is not a CD writer or tag editor, but a audio converter. The priority to implement this feature is quite low.

Regarding some of the latest features (checking existing rips against AccurateRip; offset correction of existing rips), I may be missing something, but it seems to me that a cue file is needed to use both functions. If that's so, it would be nice if we could do it even without a cue, just by dragging the FLACs to a queue window, or something like that... If I misunderstood, I apologiza... I haven't fully explored these features yet...
AccurateRip querying can't be performed without the whole length of the disc, so it is not possible with a separated track file itself.

Incorporate AccurateRip submissions, so that XLD users can help the AccurateRip database to grow...
Is this possible for 3rd party application? I'm not sure.
tim.lance
QUOTE (macman4hire @ Sep 8 2008, 22:00) *
QUOTE (tim.lance @ Sep 8 2008, 20:50) *

Add multiple output processes a la Max. I often have occasion to go to FLAC, ALAC, and AAC and love doing it in one fell swoop with Max. More, to be able to choose different output locations for these formats.

tim.lance
I think that is what is meant by Simultaneous Codec Conversions. I inserted the word multiple and gave an example to hopefully clear up any ambiguity. Thanks

Yeah, didn't sufficiently read your most excellent listing. crying.gif

Heck, all I can really add is a bit of support for the noncompliant cue. I just read another thread where a poll of HA folk showed 75% archiving to individual files.
Pepzhez
QUOTE (macman4hire @ Sep 9 2008, 00:58) *
Pepzhez no one is demanding more! This thread is just an attempt to unite the minds of all the XLD users and to give tmkk the opportunity to further improve on the best software application on the Mac. This list is not an attempt to pressure the tmkk or the development pace. I do not code and organizing this list is something I can contribute. It is the least I can do after all the work tmkk has put into XLD. If tmkk never added another feature or line of code I am truly grateful for what he has given us. I hope you and everyone now understands my motivation for creating this list.

I placed your feature suggestions on the list. Thanks


Please don't get me wrong. I didn't think you were demanding anything! I had just spent some hours online with tmkk, during which he patiently and brilliantly figured out the PowerPC XLD problems I posted about in the other thread, so I just didn't want him to think that *I* was asking for more. That's all I meant.

I think tmkk is right to not make XLD bloated by including a burning program, etc. (You might want to ask the developer of Simply Burns -- great free OS X burning GUI, by the way; I tossed out the ludicrously bloated and Toast after discovering this app -- if he'd incorporate burning offsets. I still use a command line app to burn CD-Rs with a write offset, although I really can't be bothered to get picky over CD-R write offsets much these days .)
zorba
I'm sorry but I can't find XLD : each time I get a japanese html page

http://tmkk.hp.infoseek.co.jp/xld/xld-gui-20080822.tbz

can somebody help me getting this software somewhere?
thanks
ffooky
Try:

http://tmkk.hp.infoseek.co.jp/xld/index_e.html

Make sure to update immediately.
zorba
QUOTE (ffooky @ Sep 9 2008, 17:21) *
Try:

http://tmkk.hp.infoseek.co.jp/xld/index_e.html

Make sure to update immediately.


thanks but where is the download link? I've already visited this page several times...
I might be an idiot ...


I mean the command line seems to work (but I don't understant how to rip with command line) while the first link doesn't work at all (and I guess it's the file I need) :r
tim.lance
QUOTE (zorba @ Sep 9 2008, 10:25) *
thanks but where is the download link? I've already visited this page several times...
I might be an idiot ...

Being an idiot myself I can't begin to compare ...

About one third down the page is a Download section. The first item is what you want. As soon as you have XLD up and running update it.
ffooky
The first link's working fine here. Which browser are you using and are you opting to save the file or open it with a helper application (The Unarchiver, S****it etc) ?
MacMelo
QUOTE (macman4hire @ Sep 9 2008, 06:12) *
Suggested features update tmkk emailed this information.

Regarding some of the latest features (checking existing rips against AccurateRip; offset correction of existing rips), I may be missing something, but it seems to me that a cue file is needed to use both functions. If that's so, it would be nice if we could do it even without a cue, just by dragging the FLACs to a queue window, or something like that... If I misunderstood, I apologiza... I haven't fully explored these features yet...
AccurateRip querying can't be performed without the whole length of the disc, so it is not possible with a separated track file itself.


I'm not really sure if that's true, or maybe I wasn't clear... As far as I know, what I described is precisely what TripleFLAC does...

What I'm talking about is not trying to compare 1 individual FLAC file with the AccurateRip database... I'm talking about comparing 1 entire album, consisting of several individual FLAC files... Isn't that exactly what TripleFLAC does?

From what I understood so far, XLD can only do its comparisons if the album was ripped to 1 big file + cue sheet...
Saxo
QUOTE (MacMelo @ Sep 9 2008, 20:15) *
What I'm talking about is not trying to compare 1 individual FLAC file with the AccurateRip database... I'm talking about comparing 1 entire album, consisting of several individual FLAC files... Isn't that exactly what TripleFLAC does?

From what I understood so far, XLD can only do its comparisons if the album was ripped to 1 big file + cue sheet...


This is exactly why I hated TriplFlac. I needed to split my file into useless multiflac. I don't get why poeple who are caring about offset, want a splitted album...
greynol
QUOTE (Saxo @ Sep 9 2008, 11:28) *
I don't get why poeple who are caring about offset, want a splitted album...
This doesn't make any sense.

Why would offsets be more important for single-file images than for individual tracks?
macman4hire
Spoon you may be able to answer a couple of questions about AccurateRip that some members have posted in this thread.
  1. Incorporate AccurateRip submissions, so that XLD users can help the AccurateRip database to grow... Is this possible for 3rd party application? I'm not sure.
  2. Regarding some of the latest features (checking existing rips against AccurateRip; offset correction of existing rips), I may be missing something, but it seems to me that a cue file is needed to use both functions. If that's so, it would be nice if we could do it even without a cue, just by dragging the FLACs to a queue window, or something like that... If I misunderstood, I apologiza... I haven't fully explored these features yet...
    AccurateRip querying can't be performed without the whole length of the disc, so it is not possible with a separated track file itself.
Thanks for you help.
greynol
I'm not Spoon, but I can answer your questions.

1) Yes. EAC is able to submit to the AR database, for example.

2) Cue sheets are only necessary if the correct disc ID cannot be generated using the tracks themselves (in the event that the pregap before the first track is greater than 2 seconds) or in the case that the disc is written to a single-file image (for the same reason: the audio data all by itself cannot generate a disc ID). In the case of enhanced CDs, more information is necessary as the cue sheets and audio data are not adequate. As for offset correction, it is absolutely necessary and has nothing to do with cue sheets. I've thrown some ideas out to tmkk about checking tracks ripped after the fact with AR without needing a cue sheet and it should work for enhanced discs as well.

For the record, I think submission to the database by XLD users is a good thing, but not for tracks that were previously ripped. I would be surprised if Spoon didn't agree with me on this.
zorba
QUOTE (ffooky @ Sep 9 2008, 18:55) *
The first link's working fine here. Which browser are you using and are you opting to save the file or open it with a helper application (The Unarchiver, S****it etc) ?


ok, thanks

Safari is THE IDIOT. Firefox is clever.
ffooky
QUOTE (zorba @ Sep 9 2008, 20:21) *
ok, thanks

Safari is THE IDIOT. Firefox is clever.

Nice. Welcome to the XLD party.
tim.lance
QUOTE (zorba @ Sep 9 2008, 14:21) *
QUOTE (ffooky @ Sep 9 2008, 18:55) *

The first link's working fine here. Which browser are you using and are you opting to save the file or open it with a helper application (The Unarchiver, S****it etc) ?


ok, thanks

Safari is THE IDIOT. Firefox is clever.

I now know what you're talking about. It happened to me, too. And, yes, Safari can be rather stoopid. Next time this happens, and it will as it happens too often, right-click on the link and choose "Download linked file."
bhoar
QUOTE (greynol @ Sep 9 2008, 15:01) *
1) Yes. EAC is able to submit to the AR database, for example.


Note that EAC does so using spoon's accuraterip DLL. XLD can't do that (at the moment).

-brendan
Pepzhez
QUOTE (greynol @ Sep 9 2008, 11:01) *
For the record, I think submission to the database by XLD users is a good thing, but not for tracks that were previously ripped. I would be surprised if Spoon didn't agree with me on this.


Well, the vast majority of my collection runs toward the obscure, so in most cases either the disc is not in the database at all, or only has one or (at best) two submissions. Adding a second or third submission to the AR database for such cases would be beneficial, I would think.

I have no idea if the AR code would allow submissions from discs that are below a certain threshold. Say, if the disc has less than 5 submissions, AR adds the data; if that particular disc already has more than 5, AR ignores the submission. That sounds reasonable, yes?



BTW, if anyone has trouble downloading from the XLD page, it's also available for download at MacUpdate: www.macupdate.com/info.php/id/23430.
greynol
QUOTE (bhoar @ Sep 9 2008, 15:21) *
Note that EAC does so using spoon's accuraterip DLL. XLD can't do that (at the moment).

EAC also uses the DLL to check rips which XLD can do, so I don't see the dilemma.

@Pepzhez:
I'm talking about not being able to submit data from files on your hard drive, but being able to submit from rips from your optical drive and want to also note that these rips should only be allowed using drives with the correct offset correction. Whether the titles are obscure is irrelevant. The point is to prevent information from downloads and previous rips where there is absolutely no mechanism in place to verify that the data was extracted correctly by way of offsets and gap handling as well as other issues. These are the "rules" which are already in place and have been for quite some time. As an example, if you try to upload information using a virtual drive, your results are rejected and a ban is placed on your ID.
fracai
QUOTE (greynol @ Sep 9 2008, 20:38) *
QUOTE (bhoar @ Sep 9 2008, 15:21) *
Note that EAC does so using spoon's accuraterip DLL. XLD can't do that (at the moment).

EAC also uses the DLL to check rips which XLD can do, so I don't see the dilemma.


I think bhoar is getting at the point that XLD can't submit data. Calculating the AccurateRip hash and retrieving the relevant hash file is trivial to implement. Getting access to the submission process hasn't been publicized. I believe Spoon has listed his reasons for this as maintaining the accuracy of the database, etc.
macman4hire
QUOTE (spoon @ Sep 7 2008, 14:13) *
I have always held back on this kind of sub offset detection as it greatly increases the chances of collisions, hence the design for AR2. (for example if 2000 offsets are tested then the 1:4 billion collision is 1:4 billion / 2000). If the offset is kept constant across all tracks (ie only done once all tracks are ripped then there is less chances of collision).

The "Detect Offset" feature uses the Accurate DB as the reference. I do not see the benefit of adding these corrected files if this could possible taint the accuracy of AccurateRip DB when files are already contained in the DB. It seems like a lot of risk just to increase the confidence levels. Newly ripped CD added to AccurateRips DB make sense if the CD has never been added before or if the CD is already in the DB to increase the confidence levels. I think to have the ability to add a newly ripped CD is fine to increase DB if there is no risk of tainting the DB. The key is not to taint AccurateRips DB or it will become useless as resource. Above is quote from Spoon who is the developer of AccurateRip.
greynol
Yeah this brings up an excellent point. Even though it's a great thing to be able to check your disc against an alternate pressing when yours doesn't exist in the database, I think it would be better to submit your pressing with the correct offset so that it will be available for the next person with your pressing.

Anyway if I'm just restating the previous point, my apologies. I'm a bit slow today. Pretend I'm just thinking out loud.

Oh and when I said "rules" earlier, I'm only speaking from the impression I've gotten after discussing AR over the past couple of years. I don't pretend to speak for Spoon.
spoon
It would not be possible to submit to AR without the use of AccurateRip.dll, there are many 'attacks' on the database where rouge data is submitted (sometimes even doc files mangled into AR results), deliberate attempts to pollute the database, so we will not be opening up the submission details.
macman4hire
Apples global market share is 1.8% in the third quarter of this year. I seriously doubt if Mac users not being able to submit their XLD AccurateRip results to the database will negatively impact on the AccurateRip concept when 98.2% of the world will be able to submit their results. The only way I see a negative impact is if Mac users listen to some weird and obscure tunes, which is possible. Such as Steve's Silicon Sonata, Cupertino California Concerto or the Apples Adagio for Strings!
MichaelW
For use as a ripper, I'd like an option for it to automagically query its databases for metadata, rather than having to be told to go look.

Also as a ripper feature, creating a directory for the tracks would be a great help.

I realise in making these suggestions that XLD was first intended as a file converter, and it's only grown into being a ripper.
macman4hire
QUOTE (MichaelW @ Sep 10 2008, 05:42) *
For use as a ripper, I'd like an option for it to automagically query its databases for metadata, rather than having to be told to go look.

Also as a ripper feature, creating a directory for the tracks would be a great help.

I realise in making these suggestions that XLD was first intended as a file converter, and it's only grown into being a ripper.

Added your first suggestion to the list. Please explain the creating a directory for tracks. Not sure what you mean.
Fandango
QUOTE (spoon @ Sep 10 2008, 09:55) *
It would not be possible to submit to AR without the use of AccurateRip.dll, there are many 'attacks' on the database where rouge data is submitted (sometimes even doc files mangled into AR results), deliberate attempts to pollute the database, so we will not be opening up the submission details.

Off-topic: Have you logged the IPs? So can you elaborate what persons or organizations might be behind those attacks? Just random idiots or actually some bigger players?
spoon
Never looked at IP addresses, luckily the database importer seems to have automatically highlighed and purged all attacks so far.
MichaelW
QUOTE (macman4hire @ Sep 11 2008, 00:47) *
QUOTE (MichaelW @ Sep 10 2008, 05:42) *

SNIP
Also as a ripper feature, creating a directory for the tracks would be a great help.

SNIP Please explain the creating a directory for tracks. Not sure what you mean.


Sorry for lack of clarity. I meant what I think is a point on your original list, I now see:

"Logical output folder creation based on searched metadata. Example main folder=Artist, sub folder 1=Album, sub folder 2=codec type"

So I'm sorry for redundancy, too.
macman4hire
QUOTE (MichaelW @ Sep 10 2008, 16:44) *
QUOTE (macman4hire @ Sep 11 2008, 00:47) *

QUOTE (MichaelW @ Sep 10 2008, 05:42) *

SNIP
Also as a ripper feature, creating a directory for the tracks would be a great help.

SNIP Please explain the creating a directory for tracks. Not sure what you mean.


Sorry for lack of clarity. I meant what I think is a point on your original list, I now see:

"Logical output folder creation based on searched metadata. Example main folder=Artist, sub folder 1=Album, sub folder 2=codec type"

So I'm sorry for redundancy, too.

No problem thank you for your input.
macman4hire
Here are some new features for XLD included in version Version 20080912 just released today. I don't know what else to say! I will try to updated the suggested features list today. Thanks tmkk!
CODE

Version 20080912:
• Automatic album art downloading feature now can be disabled from CDDB menu
• Added option to modify a size of padding section in FLAC encoder
• Added save button in Log window
• Modified log format to show not only relative values but also absolute values for a real-time offset checking result
• Absolute values can be used for the drive offset, and relative values can be used for fixing offset of existing files.
• A real-time offset checking feature now can be used for the first and the last track
• Note that detection will fail if the first or last 5 sectors contain non-zero samples.Version
20080911:
• Fixed a problem of ALAC decoding with QuickTime 7.5.5
Version 20080910:

• Fixed a problem for reading an enhanced CD (CD-extra)
Version 20080909:
• Fixed an endian-swapping issue on some environments and CDs
Version 20080908:
• Implemented a feature to check offset in the ripping stage
• Now XLD performs a real-time offset checking while ripping, when the CD is available in AccurateRip DB. The result is written in the log if found. Note that this feature is not available for the first and the last track.
Version 20080907a:
• Improved performance of offset detection
• Supported displaying all candidates for the offset correction value
Version 20080907:
• Added feature to fix a wrong offset of the existing files using AccurateRip database
• You can detect and fix an offset from "Detect Offset" and "Save with Offset Correction..." in File menu, after opening a file (with cuesheet) that you want to fix.
• Separated drift errors from skip errors in cdparanoia statistics
• Added option to treat AccurateRip mismatch as an inconsistency in log
• Modified loading method of Sparkle.framework to support OSX 10.3
Version 20080906:
• Sorted character encoding pop-up menu by alphabetical order
Version 20080905:
• XLD now shows "[AR]" string in the titlebar of the window when a disc is available in AccurateRip DB
Version 20080904:
• Added option to avoid testing when the track exists in AccurrateRip DB
• Supported creating a cue sheet for separated track files
• You can choose type in the save dialog. Note that currently XLD can't read this type of cue sheet.
Version 20080902:
• Fixed a problem in ALAC decoder
Version 20080830:
• Added option to test before copy
Version 20080829:
• Added option to veryfy suspicious sectors
Version 20080828:
• Added option to save a log file automatically
• Improved progress view to show a speed and remaining time
Version 20080827:
• XLD now automatically recognizes inserted/ejected CD
• Supported embedding album art in WavPack encoder
• Fixed to ask output directory if the default directory is not writable
Version 20080826:
• Fixed to report correctly in case AccurateRip doesn't have informations for all tracks
Version 20080825:
• Fixed several bugs in cdparanoia routine according to the latest release
• Fixed UTF-8 NFD issue when looking up Gracenote database
• Fixed MusicBrainz query failure on PPC Mac
Version 20080824:
• Fixed a problem that XLD sometimes failed to find a CD in AccurateRip database
Version 20080823:
• Added feature to calculate an AccurateRip hash for the existing files
• Choose "Check file with AccurateRip" from the File menu.
• Fixed again an AccurateRip hash calculation for the first track
• Sorry for confusion... I hope this will be the solution...
Version 20080822a:
• Fixed an AccurateRip hash calculation for the first track with pregap
Version 20080822:
• Fixed an AccurateRip hash calculation for the first and last track
• Improved tag editor
• Supported automatic update using Sparkle
greynol
Now you need real-time offset adjustment for AccurateRip verification (EDIT: but not for the files written to your drive, which should be offset according to the correction currently entered into XLD) so that you don't have to re-rip with a different correction, or apply a correction to previously ripped files.
Pepzhez
QUOTE (XLD)
• Added option to modify a size of padding section in FLAC encoder


So what is all that about? I notice that the default in this new XLD FLAC padding feature is 4kb. Is there a reason to keep it at 4kb when I encode to FLAC?
macman4hire
Notice that the feature suggestions are disappearing form beneath the Feature Suggestions heading at the top of the list (located 1st post 1st page of this thread). Several suggested features are now placed in the middle of the list under the Addition of Suggestions and Development Explanations heading as newly incorporated features or explanations about a suggested feature and its status of being added to the XLD project. The feature suggestions list is getting smaller. tmkk is hammering away at this list!


Note this post was edited. The Feature Suggestion List was removed so members will not be become confused where to locate it in this thread. The Feature Suggestion List will be the first 1st post 1st page in this thread always. Thanks.
macman4hire
Great news on September 11, 2008 a version of CD was released. This sounds like an upgrade to suggest for XLD.
Read the info below. Finally it seems like the drive cache problem may fixed!

cdparanoia 10.2 final released

10.2 is a substantial upgrade release over 10.1.

10.2 includes a raft of minor bugfixes in device scan, device autosense and the transport layer.

More importantly, 10.2 addresses serious CDROM drive cache modelling deficiencies that exist in earlier versions. In a nutshell, a sizable fraction of modern drives exhibit new and exciting readahead cache abuses/bugs of which older versions of cdparanoia were not fully aware. This means that skips and cracks could slip through the cache management strategy of older versions completely undetected. 10.2 fully addresses and models these new cache behaviors.

10.2 also includes a cache analysis option (-A) to do a slow and thorough offline check of the drive's cache behavior. The feature also dumps a detailed log to assist in debugging should either the test or cdparanoia's ripping go awry in any way. After all... better thoroughly safe than sorry.
macman4hire
QUOTE (Pepzhez @ Sep 12 2008, 15:37) *
QUOTE
10.2 also includes a cache analysis option (-A) to do a slow and thorough offline check of the drive's cache behavior. The feature also dumps a detailed log to assist in debugging should either the test or cdparanoia's ripping go awry in any way. After all... better thoroughly safe than sorry.


I wonder if the cache analysis option can be made to run on OS X? This would be a quite useful setup feature for XLD, to say the least.

I did just download the cdparanoia 10.2 src. I will see if the -A option will work from the command line.

I agree with Pepzhez and will add it to the suggested feature list.
MacMelo
These are two features I already talked with tmkk, and he already said will be implemented as soon as other more important ones are done. I'm only posting them here so that more people can keep track of them:

1. Add option to automatically save a M3U file, for the folks who need them.

2. Add option to "Always ask" in the Output Directory preferences...
macman4hire
QUOTE (MacMelo @ Sep 12 2008, 20:54) *
These are two features I already talked with tmkk, and he already said will be implemented as soon as other more important ones are done. I'm only posting them here so that more people can keep track of them:

1. Add option to automatically save a M3U file, for the folks who need them.

2. Add option to "Always ask" in the Output Directory preferences...

Thanks MacMelo thats why this thread exists! I will be happy to update the list.
flacflac
Just my general 2 cents: it was just a matter of time until an open source ripper came along that would most likely develop faster and more user-oriented than either one of the current two closed-source alternatives.

I still don't understand why Andre does not open his code - what's the point in keeping it locked and unchanged when he is not earning money with it anyways? XLD will surpass EAC eventually and hopefully gets ported to Windows soon.

Closed source in audio ripping won't last long. Transparency is key here, just like it is with audio codecs, which is why FLAC will always lead head-and-shoulders over closed-source attempts such as TAK... .

Let's hope Andre wakes up one of these days... .

ff
greynol
QUOTE (flacflac @ Sep 12 2008, 21:02) *
XLD will surpass EAC eventually and hopefully gets ported to Windows soon.

Not without pointer support, it won't. tongue.gif

EDIT: <Notices the following post has avoided this one>

QUOTE
It is *highly desirable* that XLD incorporate the (-A) option!
It would seem unnecessary.

QUOTE
Windows Ripping Brigade

Zealots wear blinders. It's particularly funny to see that they're not noticing the 800 pound gorilla in the room.
Pepzhez
From the cdparanoia news page:

QUOTE
10.2 also includes a cache analysis option (-A) to do a slow and thorough offline check of the drive's cache behavior. The feature also dumps a detailed log to assist in debugging should either the test or cdparanoia's ripping go awry in any way. After all... better thoroughly safe than sorry.


It is *highly desirable* that XLD incorporate the (-A) option!

QUOTE ('flacflac')
XLD will surpass EAC eventually and hopefully gets ported to Windows soon.


laugh.gif Correction: XLD will surpass EAC in about six more minutes and hopefully never gets ported to Windows, because if it *did* get ported to Windows, how would I then be able to childishly revel in the Windows Ripping Brigade's bad karma that they brought upon themselves by spending the past decade penning snarly "Why don't you buy a Wintel machine/use Wine/use Parallels/buy a copy of Windows; why should Andrι port his program to an inferior OS, anyway?!" responses every time some hapless, innocent individual asked "What is the Mac equivalent to EAC?"

Just kidding.

(Sort of. tongue.gif )
ffooky
Anyway Pepzhez, XLD is clearly a dead project as there hasn't been an update for at least 5 hours.
tim.lance
QUOTE (ffooky @ Sep 13 2008, 08:53) *
Anyway Pepzhez, XLD is clearly a dead project as there hasn't been an update for at least 5 hours.

5 hours!? Crap. Doom. Past few weeks for naught. Might as well mow the yard.
This is a "lo-fi" version of our main content. To view the full version with more information, formatting and images, please click here.
Invision Power Board © 2001-2009 Invision Power Services, Inc.