This post is part question, part information.
As part of my setup, I've been aiming to digitize my entire CD collection. Some are getting a bit scratched, and I have enough CDs that it can be hard to find the one you want.

My goal is to have 2(!) versions of each track, in two separate file hierarchies.
FLAC -- lossless full backup of CD; also used for listening on HTPC  (less processing than mp3 so cooler me hopes)
MP3 -- for portable devices. 224kb VBR
There is also a third folder for mp3s which did not originate from CD.
This means that GBPVR plays from FLAC and non-CD mp3 folder, and iTunes sees both MP3 folders for loading ipod.

I'd always used CDEX for converting CDs in the past, but stumbled over Rip Station Micro (http://ripfactory.com/rsmicro.html). This has proven to be great, as it will rip multiple formats (to different folders) at the same time. Its one touch batch ripping is also great. Simply start the process with a click, and feed CDs in with no further need to do anything (and it's really quick, doing most CDs in 2-3min).

The final thing, which I guess is my question, is that I'm quite shocked at how good the music sounds. An entirely unintentional consequence. I can only assume the DAC on the mobo is a lot better than the older pioneer DVD player I was using. All the rest of the stuff is carried over, so it seems that the DAC is better. I'm just surprised its so noticeable. Am I on the right track with this, or any other eplanations?