This tutorial will take you step-by-step through the process to burn an audio CD from FLAC files, using completely free software for Windows.
Note: although this guide was initially created in 2006, it has been updated to be current in 2020. Also, it’s SO much easier to record an audio CD from .flac files now than it was back then! In addition, if you’re trying to make an audio CD from .SHN files, the process is exactly the same as the one outlined below.
Note 2: the macOS version of this guide can be found here.
How to Burn an Audio CD from FLAC Files in Windows
- Head over to the CDBurnerXP download page then download and install CDBurnerXP – a small and free (but powerful) CD and DVD burning app. The installation is very straight forward – mostly you’ll just click ‘Next’ a few times.
- Once the installation has completed, launch the app from your Start menu. When it opens select Audio disc from the main menu and then click the OK button.
- Using the panel in the upper-left corner of the window, navigate to the .flac files you want to record as an audio CD. Using the panel in the upper-right corner of the window, select those files then “drag and drop” them into the panel on the bottom of the window.
- When you’re ready, click the Burn button.
- Now you’ll need to decide if you want a break between the audio tracks or if you want the disc to play as though it’s gapless (for example, a live concert). All of the other settings are good as they are, although you can certainly make any changes you see fit. Once you’ve made your choices, click the Burn disc button.
- CDBurnerXP will take a few moments to process the files.
- Then the recording process will commence.
- Once completed, a confirmation dialog box will appear. Click OK.
- That’s it – you’re done!
If you need any additional help by all means please feel free to leave a comment below, or check out the CDBurnerXP Help Page.
