| Processes | Print Types | Miscellaneous |
|---|---|---|
Duplication
Duplication is the process of making digital copies of your master onto recordable media. We start by checking your master for errors, and then we proceed to make exactly as many copies as you need. The copies are identical to your master in terms of data and content.
Once the discs are recorded and tested, we then apply your artwork to the disc. There are several printing methods used including inkjet, thermal and photo thermal.
Once the discs are printed, we can then package them in a variety of options, or deliver them back to you on a spindle (also known as bulk packaging).
Duplication is best when you only need a few discs (less than 1000) or when you need the discs quickly.
Our duplicated CDs and DVDs have excellent compatibility with players and drives in use.
Replication
Replication is the process by which CDs and DVDs are manufactured with the data on them. The discs have all of your information “pressed” into them during the molding process, and are just like the discs used for Hollywood studio movies and major record label albums.
After the discs are “stamped,” they are then printed using either Silk Screening or Offset printing.
Silk screening is best for solid colors and graphics, and is the preferred method to use if you need to match a Pantone Matching System color value.
Offset is more like photo printing, and is excellent for images with fine detail and complex pictures.
Replication is less expensive than duplication for quantities larger than 1000, but takes more time to complete (5-7 business days).
Inkjet Printing
Inkjet printing is the most common type of printing for duplication services. Using a disc that has a coated surface, the ink is applied much like a desktop inkjet printer would. This print is affordable and fast, while also having brilliant color and the capability of edge-to-edge printing.
Black Thermal Printing
Black thermal printing is for text and graphical logos only. It cannot reproduce edge to edge art with intense detail or realism. The thermal method transfers directly to the surface of a disc.
This is our most affordable printing option, and is best suited for demonstration discs or free handouts where only text and your logo are required.
Photo Thermal Printing
Photo thermal printing for duplicated CDs and DVDs have a brilliant, glossy finish with bold colors and rich detail.
The print is water proof, smudge and smear proof, scratch resistant, and will not fade in sunlight. It will stand up to years of use and handling, and looks better than almost any other CD/DVD printing method available.
Water-resistant Inkjet Print
Our Water-resistant Inkjet CDs combine a professional-grade CD-R with a photo-realistic label. The print is outstanding, with a glossy appearance. You can request samples with your own artwork for your evaluation.
About Artwork Specs
- Artwork must be in a layered Adobe format, laid into one of the templates downloaded from our site.
- Minimum resolution for all printing methods is 300 dpi.
- Color format should be CMYK.
- The smallest font size for both positive and negative printing is 8pt.
- If your artwork was created in a Mac operating system, all fonts must be converted to outlines.
- We will proof your art work prior to beginning your project.
If you would like, one of the Your Dream Discs talented graphic artists can produce your art for you. Contact us for more information on our graphic design services.
Master Submission Guidelines
CDs can be submitted via a CD-R. CD-RWs are not acceptable and can result in poor compatibility. Masters need to be a finalized disc. Multi-session formats can degrade performance and reliability.
DVDs can be submitted via a DVD-R. DVD+R and DVD-RW are not acceptable and can result in poor compatibility. DVD video should be encoded with Mpeg-2 for the best playback reliability.
Please test your master to be sure it works the way you want it. Duplication and replication makes an exact copy of your master to the recorded discs. Everything on your master will be on the duplicate exactly.
Maximum size for CD is 700 MB, maximum size for DVD is 4.7 GB.
Please, submit two copies of your master. This will help to safeguard against accidental damage, such as that which can occur in shipping your master to us. Hold onto a copy of your master.