CD replication is a term used to describe large quantity copying of CDs. CD replication is the industry standard for making mass quantities of a CD. Replication is done from scratch, and CD's are injection molded from plastic pellets and then are covered in reflective material and stamped with the audio information. This is in contrast to CD duplication where CD-R technology is used to create smaller quantity runs. CD replication is done for quantities above 500 CDs. Any quantity below this range would fall under the short-run classification.
Benefits
- CD replication offers a lower per disc cost on quantities above 1000.
- CD replication offers 100% compatibility for audio and data CDs.
- Allows for low priced full color coverage of the disc surface via silk screening or offset printing.
Drawbacks
- Replication is a slow process generally requiring 2 weeks to complete.
- Replication is cost prohibitive for quantities under 500.