I think the best ripping software is still DVD Decrypter. For newer DVD's with ARccOS protection etc, I use DVDFab Decrypter.
If you're having problems with backups freezing then it's probably not your ripping software. It's more likely poor media or your burning speed is too high.
Try using Verbatim discs and burn at a slower speed.
ripping software should not be the problem with freezing backup disc's.
Problems it could be...
Get better media (Or media that is best compatible with your DVD burning drive)
Burning to slow/fast. (Burn no slower then 4x or half the rated speed of the media)
custom size your output size of DVD with whatever program you use to Trabscode/Encode with to 4360
update your DVD burner firmware
make sure all other programs are up to date with stable releases.
If using DVD+R media booktype to DVD-ROM if possible.
Do not multitask
For ripping software I use DVD Decrypter. If there is a problem with newer copy protection I will run AnyDVD in the background while using DVD Decrypter still to rip.
I have also heard good things about ripIt4Me and DVDFAB Decrypter but I have not used those programs..
For DVD ripping, I use nothing but DVDFAB Decrypter or RipIt4Me (both has never let me down). These 2 free tools are pretty simple and easy to use. A must have, not to mention both are highly impressive.
Why pay when you can get it for FREE? Just load up either RipIt4Me or DVDFAB Decrypter and rip it to the HD and you'll be done within 15 - 20 minutes, then the rest is history.
WARNING: Do not "update/upgrade" your SAMSUNG BD-D5XXX series (Bluray Player), or else you cant enjoy any of your movie files. How 2 downgrade Samsung BD-D5XXX Series Bluray playerhttp://forum.samygo.tv/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=4244
I would just go with DVD Shrink combined with Menu Shrink to get the best quality and still have a functioning menu. Use Nero Burning ROM to burn and that's all you need.
The absolute easiest to use "RIP SOFTWARE" as you put is....drum roll please...is...ANYDVD!!!!! It is also the most time efficient. AnyDVD alone or running in the backround to be specific along with a none decrypting software like Nero 6 or 7 will handle the toughest back ups in most cases. When I encounter complicated decryptions like Arccos PuppetLock or Macrovision's RipGuard which can vary complicity from film to film, I used CloneDVD2 in combination with AnyDVD which are both produced by SlySoft (www.slysoft.com). FreeWare is good but in most cases involves multiple steps and because of this can be time consuming and for many hit or miss which can result in unwanted coasters and frustration. SlySoft does there homework on the most complicated encryptions mostly produced by Macrovision & Arccos and a few sleepers that show up here and there with independent authoring companies. Vob Blanker I say is a keeper along with SHRINK & the new RIPIT4ME if you absolutely have to use freeware the other stuff DVDdecrypter is good but outdated and will take some tinkering when used to decrypt newer encrypted films. Money spent on AnyDVD & CloneDVD2 is well spent and worth every penny. In my humble opinion again the absolute best decrypting software money can buy.:P
Use the DVD Fab Decryter, not only is it free but it is very easy to use. After you download to your HDD with Fab, use DVD Shrink and Nero to write to your disc, couldn't be easier. You can find DVD Fab and DVD Shrink in my signature. Happy Burning...
