CDs and DVDs are objects that can store data up to 700 MB and several GB respectively. Thus CDs and DVDs are used for sharing information and data in several sectors. Creating originals, however, is very costly and is not always an option. CD/DVD replication and duplication services are thus used for obtaining high quality discs.
Often thought to be the same thing, CD/DVD replication and CD/DVD duplication are two completely different things. Replication and duplication differ in process, costing and the quality of the product.
Replication is the process of manufacturing unique CDs or DVDs. It is a complicated process where the data is embedded onto glass masters and they are used to make new CDs or DVDs. Duplication on the other hand is the process of copying data from a master to an already manufactured blank CD or DVD.
Duplication is thus a less complicated method and usually used for semi professional purposes. The quality of CDs/DVDs obtained through replication is thus better in quality compared to duplicated discs.
Both replication and duplication are low cost methods but CD/DVD replication is cost effective when the order is for obtaining more than 500 copies. Duplication, on the other hand, is useful when the order is for fewer than 500 copies.