General Audio question

[ShaneMcBr]

I was comparing some of my own files to files that I ripped from a CD.

The levels on the ripped CD are crazy! Thay are always clipping, but it sounds like it is supposed to. I am seeing this on most/all new music (rock) and am wondering is this a common pratice.

When comparing them side by side (mine vs. ripped CD) mine sound so low in volume, not too mention flat as hell. I need to do some serious EQ'ing I suppose.

anyway I am new to this and an looking to learn....

Shane

[Erik Nygaard]

This is the newest fad, over-compressing to get the loudest CD known to man.
It has been discussed here a lot.
For many of us this use of compression destroys dynamics and is just plain tiresome to listen to, especially for longer periods.