mp3 file ripping

[kender]

ok I just ordered a head unit that can play mp3 format cd-r/rw. Don't laugh, my last head unit did almost everything but mp3 and when I got it I didn't know any better.

the new unit is the kenwood kdc-x979, and it looks like one awsome unit.

my question is, since it reads mp3 tags for labeling the mp3 file how you want it, do I need a specific cd-mp3 converter program. I have a few that were free downloads and they work well for ripping and converting, but I don't know if they can add the tag so that the head unit can read it. also the summary on the kenwood talks about folders and directories, I would assume that this is like any folder/directory that is normally used on a computer. If I am correct then I would create for example a folder "hip-hop/rap", then within that I could create "white", then within that "eminem" and " vanilla ice". then just copy the main folder "hip-hop/rap" to a cd-r as a data file. when I put it in the head unit I would then use it's key to navigate to the folders I want and the song, or play the whole folder, or the whole cd.

lmk if I am on the right track here ( no pun ) and which software would be best and most user friendly for ripping, converting, burning, tags.

thanks for the help

[Subsonic]

your are on the right track

[240racer]

not sure where to find it, but cd-ex is what i use... do a search at techtv.com.

edit: http://www.g4techtv.com/callforhelp/features/45919/Free_File_CDex.html


there ya go.

[93ex]

I usually burned with nero, it works well.. I dont know about id3 tags, my HU I dont think supports them.

But as far as the fulders/driecties thing, youve got it

[240racer]

yeah, I wouldn't use too many "levels" of folders, tho... makes jumping from folder to folder a pain. I have a kenwoodd HU that has the sam capabiliies... i use just 2 layers at the most... just separate by artist name/album...

[kender]

I can't ever remember what songs which artists sing so I may go with like 80's, 90's, rock, hip hop, then within those put the artist and I could care less about which album since I usually only get 3 or 4 songs off each album. I am wondering if the tag thing is just like renaming a file. thanks for the link to the ripper I will try it to see how it is.