So you think iTunes is great huh, well maybe you do and maybe you do not, but if you want the best sounding MP3s possible, then read on.

First you will need the best program to extract the music (or rip as it is called) from the CD. This program is called “Exact Audio Copy” and it is the ONLY thing you should use. EAC is not the fastest program, and it is not supposed to be, but it is the most accurate. Use only the 0.9 beta 4 version

EAC 0.9 beta 4

Once you have ripped the disc, then you need to encode it to an MP3. For this you will use the LAME encoder (again the ONLY thing to use) This is the version you want to use (even if it's not the newest - newer ones are either worse or not as consistent, so version really matters here).

LAME 3.90.3 by Dibrom MP3 Encoder

You will need the Nero ASPI Layer DLL (Place this in the directory you installed EAC. Usually C:\Program Files\Exact Audio Copy\)

Nero ASPI Layer DLL

Follow the instructions here completely and you will be able to enjoy the best sounding MP3s you never thought possible.

Über MP3 Guide