BTW, now that I went to check this DSP setting you told me about (which I was unaware of, so thank you), I see that is is now occupying the window. ...
So if I convert .flac or .wav files in 24bit format (e.g. 96/24), and convert to ALAC without applying the DSP effect, it will convert the ALAC file...
Thank you @oggy for your reply. I've been reading a lot of threads on other forums recently, and these appear to be the three main sorting principles...
You have something which is removing dBpoweramp from the system. CD Ripper would not remove its self from the computer, only security software might...