CD and DVD Replication versus Duplication

The choice to use duplication instead of replication can have a major impact on your project. While sonically it is extremely difficult to tell the difference between duplication and replication, the similarities pretty much end there.

What is the difference between replication & duplication of a CD/DVD?

Replication Process

There are two processes used to make a copy of a CD and DVD. The industry standard process used by C&C Music & Video and all other CD/DVD manufacturing plants is called replication. In this process, before the client's master is replicated, it is checked for data corruption. After completion of this process a glass master containing all of the important data is created. The glass master is then used to create a stamper which in turn, is used in an injection molding machine to "stamp" or mold each CD or DVD. A layer of aluminum is then applied to the disc along with a lacquering process.

At each step of the process quality and accuracy is continually checked to make sure that each CD or DVD is an exact clone of the supplied master while also making sure they meet all of the Philips/Sony standards of CD and DVD manufacturing.

Duplication Process

The second process is called duplication. This is the process that most consumers are familiar with today. If you have a computer with a burner and have a blank disc, then in essence you have the ability to duplicate. This process uses "writable" CD-Rs or DVD-Rs and "burns" the information on to them. Blanks are usually loaded into duplication machines and the data is transferred from the client's master to the blank CD-Rs or DVD-Rs. Duplication machines have the ability to burn anywhere from one to multiple CDs and DVDs at a time depending on the model.

The choice to use duplication instead of replication can have a major impact on your project. While sonically it is extremely difficult to tell the difference between duplication and replication, the similarities pretty much end there.

Some advantages to duplication:

Small Quantities

Duplication runs can typically be from 1 to 500 pieces.
Runs over 500 are usually more cost effective using the replication process.

Turn Times

Small duplication runs can usually be turned around relatively quickly due to less steps in the process. While replication does have the ability to do quick turns, the required steps in the process may deem certain turn times either undoable or non-cost-effective.

Some disadvantages to duplication:

Compatability Problems

Older CD and DVD players on the market can become extremely unstable when playing duplicated discs. Some may not read or play, or may continuously skip.

This is usually not an issue with replicated CDs and DVDs unless there is an issue with the player itself, or if the CD or DVD has been unusually abused. Replicated CDs and DVDs offer the greatest compatibility amongst of variety of players.

Lack of Standardization

There are numerous different brands of blank media on the market today. A duplicator can be using anywhere from grade A to grade Z media. At times, the same project may include all types of grades in between. For most consumers it is difficult to know what media is being used.

The replication process is standardized to strict Philips/Sony specifications and have to meet stringent requirements.

Durability

The surface of blank media has different characteristics as opposed to replicated CDs. Slight scratches & finger prints may make a duplicated CD or DVD unreadable, unplayable or lead to playability issues.

Replicated CD and DVDs have the ability to handle much more abuse and still play because of the manufacturing process.

Quality

Most duplicators use inkjet printers or labels to print on duplicated CDs and DVDs. This can often lead to poor quality printing, smudging, peeling and other issues that are inherent to these processes.

Most replicators along with C&C Music & Video print directly onto the face of the CDs and DVDs with sophisticated screen printers.

Lifespan

With proper care, duplicated CD and DVDs are expected to have a shelf life of approximately 3-5 years. Longevity factors include the brand, how they are handled, how many times they are played and surface and dye degradation.

Replicated discs are expected to last up to 30 years with proper care.

Major-Label Professionalism

When preparing for retail distribution and public use, major labels and movie studios do not duplicate CDs or DVDs.

When you choose replication over duplication, your CDs or DVDs are manufactured using the same quality and standardization practices utilized by the major labels and movie studios.

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