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We use a generic tower we bought from these guys years ago: http://www.cdrom2go.com/ At first, we used it to dupe data-only PDF transcripts from conferences. But in recent years, I produce a full audio transcript with MP3 of each presentation. Hundreds of dupes made (about 250 per conference since the transcript disc is now included in the registration fee) and not one returned as defective. There was one batch of 10 or so a long time ago where I put labels on them but then neglected to dupe them, so that was no fault of the machine. For loaner/student/distribution copies, I can't see why you'd need anything more expensive or complex. To make certified backups of a master for off-site storage, or to make multiple masters to send to multiple manufacturing plants, that's a whole different matter and I wouldn't use any duper tower. I'd run one disc at a time and data-check everything against the master file. For manufacturing, I'd rather FTP a disc image than send a CDR. -- Tom Fine ----- Original Message ----- From: "Andy Lanset" <[log in to unmask]> To: <[log in to unmask]> Sent: Tuesday, October 13, 2009 6:56 PM Subject: Re: [ARSCLIST] DVD/CD duplicators > We've been using PlexTools Professional XL V3.08 software in an HP stand > alone computer buring to a Plextor CD only drive -with reasonable success. > The software also includes diagnostic functions for checking CDs. > > Andy Lanset > WNYC Archives > > On Tue, Oct 13, 2009 at 2:44 PM, Grant, Tyra <[log in to unmask]> wrote: > >> I could use some help figuring out how to select a new CD/DVD duplicator >> to burn reference or access copies of audio, video and text files >> (legitimately, from digital content we have created). I thought this >> would be simple---go out and order a new duplicator (and maybe that's >> all there is to it---if so, feel free to say so) but I'm seeing there's >> a lot I don't know. >> >> >> >> So, here's what I think we want: >> >> >> >> -the ability to duplicate CD and DVD reference and access copies (of >> audio, video, text--i.e., bits). Duplicate one at-a-time rather than >> multiples---a fairly simple duplicator I'm guessing; >> >> >> >> -reliably accurate bit-for-bit duplication. Are there differences in >> duplicators' abilities to do this? Over time? >> >> >> >> -the ability to handle most disc formats---i.e., be as universal as >> possible to handle source DVDs, CDs, CDR, CDRW. Does this request make >> sense and, if yes, is it a reasonable request---any compromises involved >> here? >> >> >> >> -We mainly use PCs but would like MAC platform compatibility also. Is >> this possible or are we talking compromises and possibly should plan for >> MAC or PC dedicated burners? >> >> >> >> Questions: >> >> -Is there anything in particular to recommend purchasing a standalone >> vs. computer-linked duplicator? Are there standalone burners that can >> also link-up with a computer? >> >> >> >> -Do all duplicators write to disc the same way? If not, are there >> differences that make a difference? Is bit rot a factor with DVDs or >> CDs? If yes, is there a useful and affordable way to measure the rate >> of bit rot or is this foolishness? >> >> >> >> -Should we be writing to one format---i.e., DVDs?---regardless of the >> source format? (Revealing my lack of background but I need to learn so >> better to ask.) >> >> >> >> -What about lightscribe? This could be useful but could affect disc >> longevity. What does this do to the disc? Is it considered harmless or >> not or don't we know? >> >> >> >> -Are there better duplicators or manufacturers? best DVD drives for >> duplicators? Not sure how to ask this. >> >> >> >> -Anything additional I should be asking? >> >> >> >> I'll appreciate whatever information, advice or recommendations are >> offered. >> >> >> >> Tyra Grant >> >> >> >> Head, Preservation Department >> >> University of Kansas Libraries >> >> Phone: 785-864-8951 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >