I'm very new to downloaded music, but my understanding is that an mp3 can be converted to a wav file and be played on a regular cd player. I have a converter program (I forget the name) and use Ahead ...

I've used EAC to do this. Instead of ripping individual tracks, tell it you want to "Copy Image & CUE Sheet." That will make a single WAV file of the entire CD, then you can convert to MP3 from that.

Here’s a little tip to help you keep track of all those backup CDs and DVDs you’re burning. (You are making regular backups, right?). If you’ve got a full-bore backup strategy going, you’re probably ...