CD Mastering and Audio Mastering

Is there a big difference between cd duplication and cd replication? The answer is No. The discs will function the same, but the overall production process will be slightly different. Let's look at the differences of duplication and replication a little more closely.

CD duplication is simply a method of copying CD's (also known as 'burning') onto pre-made discs such as CD-R media. The term burning comes from the laser that is used to write the data to the disk. CD duplication is usually used for small run projects for quantities under 500. It is cost effective, has excellent quality, and has a very quick turn around time if you plan on duplicating only a small quantity.

CD replication is a process of taking your cd master and through injection molding, it is pressed and then encoded to a glass master. This glass master then can be used to make exact clones with the use of a stamper mold. The final steps includes adding a coat of reflective aluminum to the cd and then it is sealed with a protective lacquer that is hardened and cured by ultraviolet light. Replication is normally requested and recommended when a project will excede a quantity greater than 500. However keep in mind that most companies will be able to give a customer the best price point when they order a thousand or more. Replication also offers 100% compatibility with all types of playback media.

If you have further questions about the difference between duplication or replication and what is right for your project contact Discmasters or even call them at 1-888-430-DISC (3472).