Guide to CD and DVD Labels and Duplication

Burn your master CD or DVD

CD/DVD burning software is readily available and easy to use. Computers with integrated DVD burners come bundled with DVD/CD burning software.

I recommend: Apple's Macs include iDVD with their iLife software. Among the CD/DVD burning software choices for PCs are Roxio's Easy Media Creator and Cheetah DVD Burner.

Make copies of your master

Your next decision depends on how many copies you need. Choices range from single DVD burner drives to completely automated duplicators that will copy and print up to 1,000 discs automatically. For less than 300 DVDs, a manual tower is best. For larger quantities, you're better off with an automated duplicator with an autoloader.

I recommend: Online retailer ProActionMedia offers a comprehensive comparison chart listing various CD/DVD duplicating equipment options and prices. Disc Makers offers all-in-one burners/printers. Primera and Rimage sell higher-end DVD duplication systems, such as the Bravo XR Disc Publisher and the Rimage Desktop1500.

Outsource to duplicate or replicate

If you are sending your copying job out, you need to choose: duplication or replication? There's no difference in quality; it's a quantity issue. Duplication is quicker, cheaper and better for quantities under 500. Replication is a physical production process that uses a glass master; discs are "pressed" on machines. Replication is more economical for larger quantities.

I recommend: Disc Makers will duplicate 100 DVDs with color inserts and cases in five days or can replicate 1,000 DVDs, including cases and color printing, in 10 days.It's an online service, so you can simply email or upload your content. SuperMediaStore also duplicates and replicates and has some handy information for helping you choose.

Review labeling options and print your labels

Options for labeling your CDs or DVDs also run the gamut, from ultra low-tech Sharpie markers to label-creation software and direct-to-disc printers.Some consumer inkjet printers now include a dedicated CD/DVD tray for printing right on a disc's surface. Higher end duplicators provide thermal printing direct to disc for a more polished and professional look.

I recommend: Verbatim's "Touch-Less" labeling system packages labels and software. Print on the disk using a keyboard with Casio's Thermal Transfer printer. Design a label and print it on the disk with Epson's Stylus Photo 900. Primera's Bravo DVD Publisher is an all-in-one duplicator/printer. LightScribe is a DVD burner and monochrome printer all in one.