So I've been trying to figure out how to convert these files to Illustrator 10 in an editable format, so I can still optimize and edit objects etc. in OS X, and never have to run Classic again. Well I've found a way, and I'm not sure it's been published here so here it goes. First, the downside, you'll need Adobe Acrobat 5 (not Acrobat Reader), your original OS 9 graphic software of choice, and an OS X graphic application as well. I used ClarisDraw with Illustrator and Freehand in this test.
- Start Classic, make sure all your printer extensions are enable such as Laserwriter8 and desktop printer spooler etc. Restart Classic if they're not.
- Go to the Applications -> Adobe Acrobat 5.0 -> AdobePS folder. Start up the Desktop Printer Utility and assign a new desktop printer using Laserwriter 8 and Translator (Postscript). You'll then see a dialogue box indicating the PPD file (printer description) and destination. I left them as is, and simply clicked on "create" and assign a name to the printer, in my case "convert".
- Now start up your Classic graphic app. and load up your file, simply print and choose the new "convert" printer, your file will be saved at your set location.
- Go to Illustrator in X, now open your file with its .ps extension. Voila! You now have a graphic file which you can manipulate and edit in Illustrator.

