We highly recommend that you clean your LPs before sending them to us. Obviously the cleaner the vinyl the better the final result. For CDs please perform a visual inspection and clean them if you are worried about the appearance and the risk of introducing errors in the ripping process. Our software IS error tolerant but cannot 'repair' particularly dirty or damaged CDs. We will try ripping a second time after an in-house clean but will be forced to reject from the pile after a 2nd attempt.

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What checks do you do before you start ripping?

Before ripping we check the condition of the CDs & LPs before placing them into the equipment. In addition we clean off any excess dust / debris using anti-static cloths. This process will remove the majority of the dust, the remainder will be well within the capability of the software to correct. For LPs we go an extra stage to sample the recording level across the album before finally setting it for the rip.

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Can the software remove more serious damage?

The software used for CD & LP ripping is quite different and the response to damage quite different also. Both are quite tolerant to errors but for best results it is always best to start with a clean CD/LP.
   For CDs the hardware and software will detect the errors and re-read the section of the CD track until it can perfectly reproduce the original. If after several minutes of trying, and it cannot repair the Digital audio stream it will reject the track / CD.
   For LPs the analogue signal will be faithfully recorded 'as is'. After the initial inspection, we will know the likelihood of issues and hear them during ripping. Then at post processing, the software will eliminate common pops and clicks associated with vinyl LPs. This is a manual process and must be fine tuned for EVERY LP. The goal being to filter out the undesirable effects whilst leaving the original sound as intact as possible.
  Both sets of software can eliminate most small particulates and scratches, however they do have their limits. Severe damage cannot be restored, therefore let us know your concerns or send us a sample and we'll see what can be done.

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Is there anything that cannot be ripped?

Occasionally some CDs contain embedded CD copying protection schemes and as such we cannot rip these CDs. We also do not rip home made CDs as the Quality (Audio & Metadata) cannot be guaranteed. Severely scratched CDs will be attempted twice and if the error correction cannot perfectly reproduce the track(s), the CD will be rejected.

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How long will the ripping take?

This depends on 3 factors, 1) Number of CD/LPs to be ripped; 2) the options required; and 3) the characteristics of the collection. For CDs, we can turnaround most orders within 1 week. LPs are more time consuming, as each has to be individually played back and the filtering tuned accordingly. If you decide to go ahead, we will provide you with a formal quotation and estimated delivery date.

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How do I choose which ripping options?

Firstly, please review the option explanations in the adjacent pages. Then you must ask yourself 3 questions: How do I wish to store and play my music? Is my music player capable of playing the preferred options? and what is my future media player roadmap? 

For compatibility, it is hard to better MP3. Our default rip is 224kbps MP3 for this reason and it offers 'nearly' CD quality with a reasonable file size. However its successors, WMA & AAC, are also worth considering, particularly for the latter if using Apple hardware. If storage space is unlimited consider using a lossless format and then using the PC media player to recode on-the-fly when syncing with your portable device. If in doubt call us to discuss or to arrange sending some samples to demonstrate what is possible.

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Can I try before I buy?

Absolutely, please do! Send us 1~2 albums and we'll perform a test run and send you the results. At the end of the day we want you to be happy, and hopefully you will then recommend us to your family and friends. Please call 0191 6402095 / 01228 808195 or email sales@multimediaconvert.co.uk to make arrangements.

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If I decide to go ahead, what happens next?

It is highly recommended the originals are cleaned prior to dispatch. We will then clean them again using an anti-static cloth if necessary before ripping; If requested, we test run several tracks to provide you with samples to help determine your preferred options for the order. Samples of these Test runs will be emailed to you, and after your review, we will go ahead with the order. Once the order is complete, we will contact you to make payment arrangements and for return delivery.

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