Does anyone have any recommendations for mp3 converting software? I want to be able to mix my own cd's and make duplicates (for my own use, to have a cd in my car without fear of ruining the original ...I am weird that way)

I use Nero softward to burn the cds, but when copying the originals it makes them WMA files, (I think)

Try using CDEX to rip your CDs into MP3 or Wave format.