Re: What Audio Equipment?
 

I don't think I could actually afford to replace all my cds with mp3 downloads from iTunes. The purchases I've made already were rather expensive -- about the same as buying the cd.

Re: What Audio Equipment?
 

Maybe I am misunderstanding DR's post, but I think he is copying his CD's to his PC via iTunes and not downloading from iTunes. If he is downloading 293 CD's from iTunes then I need to purchase some shares in Apple.:lol:

Re: What Audio Equipment?
 

Yes, I am using the iTunes software to upload my CDs, and will then sync them to my new iPod. So far it is working very smoothly.

Re: What Audio Equipment?
 

Have to say that I am not an Apple fan, and definitely not an Itunes fan. It's all too Apple controlled. I shall be copying all of my CDs to an external hard drive that I will take with me. I have used a Sansa Mp3 player daily for years (different models), can download any music that I want from MP3 Rocket and also use my Mp3 to listen to books and watch the occasional video. We can download audiobooks from our local library and imagine you can in the UK too. I had an IPOD (received as a gift)... nothing but problems and quickly defunct. If I need to translate file types, Sansa has a program (Sansa updater). I use a tape adapter in my little stereo here to plug in my Mp3 but newer stereos will have a plug-in.

I also have a component stereo system but it's so old hat that I will be lucky to sell the components and wouldn't take them to the UK. I am more interested in compact and the quality on small stereo systems has really improved over the years.

In short, when I go to the UK, I will buy a TV and mini-stereo system there, take my MP3 and the external hard drive with me, and the laptop handles the rest.

I am wondering though if all laptops are able to be used in the UK with just a change of cord. Anyone know?

Re: What Audio Equipment?
 

On the laptops -- you probably need to research your individual model, but you should be OK using it in the UK. My old Dell used to work with just a plug adaptor. Apple sell a travel pack for their devices.

The house we've bought in the UK is in an area with poor broadband speeds. For the last couple of years i've been backing up onto a cloud, either the icloud or Dropbox. That's not going to be so practical in Devon, so I'm intending to invest in an Apple Time Capsule which will do the same job on our home network.

Re: What Audio Equipment?
 

Yes, Apple does pull you in, but I do like their products. Although, I still use my trusty PC. It seems to be the way of the world with large corporations influencing our lives. On the laptop, yes, you just need an adapter plug. I was also able to bring my PC hardrive from Canada as their is a little switch at the back which changes the voltage.

Re: What Audio Equipment?
 

Have a look at the power pack on your cord and you should see a label listing specifications, CSA certification etc. There should be a voltage spec there 120-240 volts. This is true of most if not all (be sure to check first to be safe) small appliances with separate plug-in power supplies these days including camera chargers, compact printers etc. That being the case, all you need is a plug adapter available where electronics accessories are sold, I think mine was about five bucks if that.

Re: What Audio Equipment?
 

This has to be the funniest bump I have ever seen!:lol:

...............but the feedback is very handy to know.

Re: What Audio Equipment?
 

Sorry to pull the thread slightly OT, but can you tell me the following:

Importing CDs via iTunes - does it make a difference whether you import them as MP3 files or the iTunes default ACC file format? It seems MP3 would be best (because it is more widely readable - correct?) but I was wondering if there is some advantage to importing as ACC (e.g., does this work better on an iPod, make functions like creating playlists, etc., or using the new Genius feature more straightforward)?

Also, what bit rate is best/most practical? Seems from what I have read that you can select 32, 160 or 320 ...

I am about 50 CDs into ripping my CD collection and it struck me that if I find I am doing it wrong, it would be a pain in the 'arris to do it all over again.

Re: What Audio Equipment?
 

Dunroving, Sorry I don't know if I can answer your question. When I copied my CD's to my PC via iTunes, I don't remember selecting a bit rate or choosing between ACC or MP3, so I assume I just imported using the iTunes standard. The sound is fine to my ear, but I am no audiophile.

Unless the iPod has changed, you should create your playlists in iTunes on your PC before syncing with your iPod. I don't think you can create playlists on the iPod, but I believe you can sync them from your PC. I don't have an iPod. However, maybe the version you have is more like the iPad, in that you can create playlists and Genius mixes directly on the iPad. Clear as mud? Today, I broke down and got an iPhone. So, I am now well and truly on the slippery slope:)

Re: What Audio Equipment?
 

Thanks for the info folks. Yes, my laptop power pack shows 100-240v so that answers that.

My external drive is just a USB connection to my laptop so doesn't need separate power.

Re: What Audio Equipment?
 

I found some information online and by exploring my iTunes software. In particular, I found this page helpful. The comments (link at the bottom of the page) are all interesting to read, too.

The iTunes software defaults to downloading as an AAC file. This is a newer file format than MP3 and although it is not an "Apple" format, it can only be read currently by a limited number of devices (mainly Apple devices, Zune and Sony Playstation), not on most media players like the Windows Media Player.

The article seems to imply that AAC files will become the standard file but no indication when.

I have already ripped about 50 CDs and am swithering whether to start all over again. MP3 formats will work on iPod, etc., and as long as you select a high bit-rate, the quality is hardly different ... choices, choices.

Re: What Audio Equipment?
 

Thanks for the info. Have fun ripping those CD's. it's worth it in the end.

Re: What Audio Equipment?
 

Thank you all for your contributions, which have given me a few ideas.

I like the idea of converting all our cds to mp3s and then getting rid of the jewel cases and storing the cds in folders. I'll get a new optical drive that is compatible with my Mac Air and try to covert all our cds before we leave next year. It means that we won't need to replace our cd player once we get to the UK.

For our LPs I'm now planning to invest in a new turntable, amp and speakers when we get to the UK. It will be pricey, but I think it will give us more pleasure than converting all the LPs to mp3.

A couple of weeks ago I bought a bluetooth speaker. It's a "supertooth disco 2". We are very pleased with the sound quality, even though it only cost CAD 100, and we will be able to use it in the UK with a plug adaptor.