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Editors’ Review
Exact Audio Copy is a utility tool designed for audiophiles and archivists who need precise, error-free CD rips. It sets itself apart with its ability to recover audio from even damaged or scratched discs. Whether you're preserving a rare album or digitizing a collection, it focuses on getting bit-perfect results that typical CD rippers can easily miss.
Although not intended for casual users, Exact Audio Copy is praised for its customizability, which allows users to manage metadata, compression formats, and drive settings. It may look dated, but for those valuing accuracy and control, it’s a solid choice among multimedia tools. It’s free for non-commercial use.
Best for audio purists and archivists
The program’s biggest strength lies in its error correction features, which allow for near-perfect extraction even from scratched or aging discs. Unlike basic CD rippers, this one slows down to verify audio data and notify users of any inconsistencies. While this improves quality, it also makes the ripping process slower than most tools. That trade-off won’t appeal to everyone, but those seeking accuracy over speed will appreciate it.
Although powerful, the program is not especially beginner-friendly. The interface is dated, and setting up external encoders or choosing ripping options can be overwhelming for first-time users. However, for those willing to learn its features, the tool is extremely configurable. There are presets available to help speed things up, but it’s built more for those who prefer technical control over ease of use.
The program runs reliably and has stayed actively maintained, with recent updates improving both stability and compatibility. It doesn’t demand much from your system, and once configured, it works consistently. Compared to flashier alternatives, it won’t win UI awards, but its performance and precision have earned long-term trust from serious users. Exact Audio Copy continues to meet expectations for those with detailed CD archiving needs.
Pros
- Accurate error correction
- Reliable long-term performance
- Highly customizable
Cons
- Dated user interface
- Steep learning curve
Bottom Line
For serious CD ripping only
Exact Audio Copy remains one of the most dependable tools for high-quality audio extraction, especially when handling scratched or damaged CDs that other programs may fail to rip cleanly. While its steep learning curve and outdated interface may discourage beginners, it consistently delivers on accuracy, reliability, and customization. For users focused on music preservation or building precise digital archives, it continues to be a top-tier choice.
What’s new in version 1.8
- Added metadata plugin support for MusicBrainz and Discogs
- Improved compatibility with modern CD drives and hardware
- Fixed encoding issues with certain FLAC setups
- Enhanced log file formatting for better readability
Used Exact Audio Copy for Windows? Share your experience and help other users.
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