CD Replication

In most cases, the choice between duplication and replication is determined by the quantity of discs you require. Duplication is great for smaller runs. Over 500 units, replication becomes much more cost effective. However it’s useful to understand the differences.

The Processes

CD and DVD duplication is similar to burning a disc on your personal computer. Data is extracted from the master disc and stored on a hard drive. This is then burned to CD-Rs or DVD-Rs using multiple disc drives, which are automatically loaded. The data is verified, and any erroneous discs are discarded.

Replication requires a much more involved setup. The supplied master disc is carefully checked for errors before it is used to generate a glass master. This is used to create a stamper which is loaded into an injection molding machine which creates the “replicates”. A layer of micro-thin aluminum is applied to the polycarbonate disc. It is then lacquered for additional protection and printed before packaging.

Duplication vs Replication

Speed: Duplication turnaround is 2-5 days. Replication takes 7-10 business days

Cost: Duplication – high per unit cost, low setup cost, ideal for smaller runs. Replication – high setup costs (glass master) but unit costs are low – ideal for large runs.

Print: No difference! We offer high quality screen & litho printing even on duplication runs.

Appearance: The bottom “burn side” of duplicated discs may have a slight hue to it, whereas replicated discs are a purer silver.