Duplication vs. Replication
Posted on | February 13, 2009 | No Comments
I got an e-mail today from someone asking the difference between disc duplication and replication. While it may sound confusing, the difference is pretty simple.
Duplication is the act of copying a disc’s contents on to a hard drive (as a disc image, usually) and then burning CD-Rs from that image. This is normally done for low quantity runs and is considered a more amateur method of making discs, for things like demos.
Replication is the act of creating a glass master, from which a stamper is made. This stamper is then used to replicate the discs in high volume. This is the method used by record labels for large quantities of discs and is considered the professional method.
While duplication can be done by anyone with a computer, a CD burner, and the proper software, replication is performed in a clean room with very expensive equipment and a very high degree of quality control.
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From Ohm to Om reflects the opinions of mastering engineer Paul Abbott, owner of San Diego's ZenMastering.
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