CD Replication vs Duplication

Let's iron it out simply.

Duplication is copying information onto media, either media to media or computer to media. In the case of CDs, it's the same process as home CD burning. We copy data onto existing CDs using CD drives utilising fast drive technology and a little bit of automated robotics, so we don't get arm ache!

CD Replication is completely different and uses raw materials to press the data into polycarbonate using a stamper, produced from a glass master in high pressure press. After the disc is made, it goes through sputtering to apply a reflective layer, followed by a gloss lacquer seal over the top. 

Have a look at various videos on our website and Social Avenues if you want to see our machinery in action.

Here is how we break down basic decision making between our two processes:

CD Replication vs CD Duplication

	CD Replication	CD Duplication
Disc type	Factory-pressed CD	CD-R
Manufacturing	Glass master + stamper	Data burned to blank media
Suitable for	Commercial releases	Very small/urgent runs
Player Compatibility	Excellent	Very Good
Minimum standard Alpha run	300+	100+
Smaller replication runs	Available by quotation	Available by quotation
Manufactured at Alpha	Yes	Yes
UK factory	High Wycombe	High Wycombe

 

If you are specifically looking for factory-pressed CDs rather than burned CD-Rs, you need CD replication.

Here in High Wycombe, we have the only operating CD replication lines in the United Kingdom, which means that other UK companies offering replicated CDs either process their orders through us, or through factories located in other countries & import the product.

We think it is important for our customers of any size to understand what type of CD disc they are purchasing and it's impact on environmental and commercial decision making. When we talk about our CD manufacture, we truly mean our CD manufacture so we welcome queries and questions.

We also feel it pertinent to discuss quantities vs process and the scale of economy. As displayed in the table above, by default, we would process CD orders of 100-299 by duplication as the quantities, in our opinion, do not justify the cost of the tooling and set up charges. 300 units onwards are then, by default, replicated. Our web prices reflect these processes and, unless discussed will apply to all orders placed as stipulated in the product descriptions

If you are looking for factory-pressed CDs sub a 300 quantity, we can price the difference for a replication service, but we do warn it will probably work out to the equivalent value of the 300 quantity price regardless. Always happy to discuss your projects needs and talk more about the pros and cons of decisions you need to make for your CD production.