CD duplicators are instrumental in expediting the copying, storing and distribution of files. Whether producing an album, copying an important presentation or just backing up important files for your business meeting, CD duplicators and CD duplication services can come in handy.

Consider the amount of files and the rate at which you want your files duplicated when searching for the correct CD duplicator. CDR duplication hardware is a device which attaches to a computer and usually copies one disc at a time, whereas CD duplicator towers are heavy-duty CD copying machines, some of which can create up to 15 duplicate CDs at once. Ease your CD duplication process by considering the following options:

1. Duplicate discs from your computer with CDR duplicator hardware

2. Copy multiple discs quickly with a CD-R duplicator tower

3. Have a CD duplicator service copy, label and pack your discs for a professional look

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Install CDR duplication hardware on your computer for small-scale production

CD-R duplicator hardware is a simple, computer-friendly version of the CD duplicator. These come as either external or internal devices - the latter of which is less expensive, but also requires installation, whereas the former hooks up via USB cable. With internal devices, also be sure to check with compatibility with your computer model. CD duplication hardware isn't the quickest way to copy CDs, but it's the most economical way to copy a few CDs at one time.

I recommend: Buy CD duplicator hardware from the manufacturer Plextor, or compare prices of devices at PriceGrabber.com.

Copy disks for mass production with a CD-R duplicator tower

The CDR duplicator tower is a device which mass copies duplicate discs from a source disc. They range in capability from three CDs at once to 15 to more. Record companies and independent musicians will find the compact disc duplicator tower particularly advantageous, as it allows speedy production of large numbers of CDs.

I recommend: Purchase CD-ROM duplicator towers from Disc Makers and SuperMediaStore.com.

Work with a CD replicator service to avoid purchasing expensive equipment

Independent musicians or any business needing a one-time CD duplicator job should consider hiring a service. Besides saving money on equipment, you get to work with professionals who can guide you through the process. Most services even allow you to design CD cases, labels and other aesthetics to make your product shine. If you're worried that you may not understand how to work CD-R duplication hardware properly, this may be a good choice for you.

I recommend: DiskFaktory and Oasis Disc Manufacturing both have CD-ROM duplicator services which will walk you through the entire production process.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Businesses wanting to burn larger files, particularly audio and video, should consider working with DVDs rather than conventional compact disc duplicators. At 4.7 GB, a DVD has almost seven times a CD's 700 MB of available space.