how to copy an audio cd exactly onto a blank cd-r?
 

is there a way to copy an audio cd 1:1 onto a cd-r?

Not sure if this is a trick question ?? What software have you been using ?
If you want an exact copy of a CD (be it audio or otherwise) try CloneCD (Clone-CD.com). Although beware that some of the newer (copy protected) audio CDs are a little more difficult to copy (for now at least)

get clonecd just tick subchannel data from audio tracks when reading and then use the default for writing. This is for a cd protected by audio cd. Use clonyXl to check what it is. Post the cd and i can tell you what it might be?