Newbie with questions re music software options

[rowlandville]

I have been using iTunes (for years now). But the sheer lack of musicality of my lower bit rate scans has led me to reburn my CDs using AIFF.

 

I began scanning music in AIFF using iTunes 10.2. I then noticed that there are reproduction issues with certain CDs. Terrible sound! (Bohemian Rhapsody sounded like a 3rd grader engineered it.) Even playing CDs directly through iTunes results in this issue.

 

I have scanned about 10,000 songs so far, but will rescan if necessary. But first, I need advice on the best course of action from here on in.

 

What are your suggestions for format? AIFF or FLAC or something else? What software is best suited to what I'm seeking: accurate reproduction and portability and the ability to build playlists.

 

I appreciate any and all input that will guide me where I need to go.