Ripping HDCD Question (6 db Amplification)

[Wickedfox]

There's an option to that says +6 db amplification. Should I keep this off or on for best audio quality / rip? What does it do? Will be ripping to wav

[ForSerious]

I keep it off because I always apply replay gain in the final version of the file I make for listening. I think the main reason for this option is to make the volume more likely to be level with most normal CD rips. Since they are 16bit, HDCD can be 20 bit, but gets stuffed into 24bit meaning they will always be quieter than the now standard maxed out 16bit CDs. I don't remember if it will clip HDCDs that actually have the peak extension enhancement or if it accounts for that.

[Wickedfox]

I keep it off because I always apply replay gain in the final version of the file I make for listening. I think the main reason for this option is to make the volume more likely to be level with most normal CD rips. Since they are 16bit, HDCD can be 20 bit, but gets stuffed into 24bit meaning they will always be quieter than the now standard maxed out 16bit CDs. I don't remember if it will clip HDCDs that actually have the peak extension enhancement or if it accounts for that.

I dont have replay gain on. Am I still good or will the audio sound bad?

[Wickedfox]

Did some research and learned it should stay off as it can cause distortion and clipping with the volume boost