The Difference Between CD Duplication and Replication

CD duplication and replication are two processes that are easy to confuse, CD replication is the manufacturing process that creates a CD by molding the disc from a stamper to create an exact replica of the master copy. Data cannot be added or changed once this process has been completed. CD duplication however refers to burning data to a disc and is usually carried out using consumer technology.


CD duplication at home is an easy process that is both inexpensive and convenient. If you need to make a single copy of a disc then the software that is available on the market is great for duplicating audio tracks or data files onto recordable CDs.


However, if you have a need to create many copies of a CD then replication may be a more appropriate choice than CD duplication. An example of this would be if you had mastered a CD of original music and need to create 500 copies to sell CDs to fans at live performances. You may then need these copies to send to talent scouts, record labels and to sell in local record shops. Replication by a professional company is the best option; they will provide durable copies of your CD at the highest standard. Replication can also involve art and packaging that will give your CDs the professional look you'll need.


In CD replication the original master disc is used to make a glass master which in turn allows for a set of stampers to be made. High tech injection molding creates cloned copies of the master with the stampers. A coat of aluminum is then applied onto the disc, followed by lacquer that is hardened with ultraviolet light. Every CD is made this way is called a first generation replica and after this process the disc is then put through a printer for the CD label artwork.


There are many benefits to finding a professional company to deal with your CD duplication and replication needs. All discs will be of a very high quality and packaging will look professional, which is vital in the music industry. The larger the order the less you will have to pay for the service, so if you have a large project then the more the better. Artwork and other added features will also affect the overall price but you can discuss with the company your needs and price range. Media companies that provide these services often offer many other processes that can be of benefit to media projects that involve CD duplication and replication.