How do you record a CDA file?

[Caveman]

Whgen I try to burn a CDA file, nothing shows up... The files are "hidden"... Even if I make them myself... How do I unhide them?

 

[imported_Ned Flanders]

You need to 'rip' the music from the source CD - You can't just copy the 'short-cut' type .cda files.
Or you could select copy CD from your favorite CD burning app if you're wanting a 1:1 copy.

 

[Caveman]

I'm getting into recording audio (voice, not music) and am a noob...

What is the exact definition of "rip"? Or better asked... How is it different than "burn" or "copy"...?

Also, why are CDA files "different"? WMA and other file types can be copied directly (at least oen can see that they are there, like one would expect), but CDAs are different... any reason?

 

[imported_Ned Flanders]

Rip: To copy music from an audio CD to your harddrive.
Burn: To 'burn' (write to) a blank CD
Copy: To copy :S

The .CDA files are not the actual music - They're kind of like 'shortcuts'. If you wanted a file, you wouldn't copy the shortcut, you'd copy the file itself. The trouble with audio CD's is that those files are hidden (probably to thwart piracy?).
Regardless, to get the music off the CD onto your PC you need to Rip the CD using your software of choice.

Windows Media Player has the option to 'rip' the music.