Play audio CDs without excessive noise

Nov 30, '06 07:30:00AM

Contributed by: ryancu

I often want to use my iBook G4 to play audio CDs using iTunes, but the noise from the CD drive makes it a horrible experience, especially with my wooden desk amplifying the iBook's vibrations. I don't know why the drive thinks it must spin so fast just for a plain audio CD.

Solution: Before you insert the disc, stick a small square of Scotch Magic Tape (or other quality well-sticking but easy-to-remove sticky tape) on the non-playing surface of the CD, closer to the perimeter than the centre. Make sure the tape is well stuck (no part of the tape sticking up or off the edge) otherwise it might come off while inside the drive and then we'll have real trouble. Best to cut the tape with scissors so all the edges are flat rather than tearing it using the dispenser because that will leave a zig-zag edge which may not stick down completely flat.

How it works: When the drive starts playing the CD, it will try to speed up like normal, but because it feels the CD is off-balanced (because of the tape) it will automatically slow down again and play perfectly, without excessive drive noise.

[robg adds: If you're going to try this (I haven't, and don't plan to), please be extraordinarily careful -- if that piece of tape comes off inside your drive, it will not be a fun repair project. An alternative might be to simply copy the AIFF files from the CD to the Mac and then play them using QuickTime Player or other audio player (this is all assuming you don't want to import the songs to iTunes for some reason).]

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