Every week Duplium, based in Dallas, Texas, duplicates thousands and replicate hundreds of thousands of discs at Duplium. Duplium offers duplication for short runs, typically less than 500, and replication for order sizes greater than 1000 units.
DVD Duplication is a process where Duplium actually burns the die pigment in a molded disc. We simply insert a disc into the drive and make a copy of your content. DVD Replication is a process where a glass master is created, metal stampers are made, and plastic is molded with your data. The manufacturing difference between duplication and replication is very different. Duplication can be done a regular disc drive with burning capabilities; however, replication takes place on a large disc molding line. The capital costs alone on the two processes varies from a few hundred dollars for a disc drive for duplication to a couple of million dollars for replication requirement . Replicating requires a glass mastering, replication line, and testing equipment.
Why Replicate instead of duplicate?
A replicated dvd disc is more reliable in the field when compared to a disc duplicated. There are still playability issues with “burn” or duplicated dvd discs. Here’s a great internet resource for information regarding the playability of dvd duplication http://dvddemystified.com/
How Do I Chose Replication over Duplication?
Generally speaking, duplication should be use for projects that don’t require a level of field playability integrity, low order quantities coupled with a fast turnaround requirement. Replication is recommended for orders over 1,000 units, high level of field playability integrity, and superb retail presentation.
Recently we had a customer place an order for a low quantity of DVDs (under 500 units). They insisted on replicated discs because their product cost several hundreds of dollars to consumer and they didn’t want any playability issues. They were willing to pay a little more for the replicated product as a quality control measure.
Is Duplication faster than Replication?
The manufacturing process for duplication is very fast. We can duplicate small quantities within a few hours. Typically a replicator needs seven to ten working days to turnaround replicated DVDs. However, Duplium offers several quick turn DVD replication packages. Duplium can turn around replicated DVDs in as quick as one day to two days for an additional fees.
Keith Eckhardt is the Regional Sales Manager for Duplium Corporation. He is based in our Regional Sales Office in Denver, Texas. He can be reach at 303-488-3321.
