CD Duplication & Replication

Many businesses require duplication and replication of CD media in large quantities. Take a moment to learn more about the factors that determine which option is best for your project.

Ask yourself these three questions as you begin your planning:

1. What is the final quantity you need?
2. How many project masters do you have?
3. How often will the product code change on the project?

Your answers to these questions will determine the best solution. For instance, as a general rule, projects with the same master and with quantities over 1000 are better suited for replication as a typical run is at minimum 1000 pieces. It is a more cost-effective solution and can be silk-screened to add a professional look to the final project.

Projects that have different masters, or have quantities under 1000, are better suited for duplication. You can duplicate just the number that you need. And depending on the type of printer, recent advances in blank CD media have made it possible to print high quality graphics directly on the surface of the media. Either that or have your project silk-screened before you duplicate the final discs.

Duplication is also a good option if you have a project that requires a code change. For instance, if you have a code change that happens after every 100 copies. Duplication allows you to duplicate just the amount you need before shifting to a new code.

Either way, keep in mind that every project has special considerations. Understanding your equipment, media, and the scope of your project will help you make a cost-effective and sound decision when the time comes.