The latest trend in cd replication is custom - shaped CDRs. These CDRs are marketed under all kinds of special names (bizcard cd, Business Card CD, shape cd, shaped cd), and are all custom cut CDRs. The initial replication process is the same as ever, then the CDRs are cut to the desired shape (shape cd examples). A variation to cut CDRs is clear layer substrate CDRs. Instead of the silver substrate in part of the design- in this case, the CDRs are not cut at all but manufactured with silver-free (clear) areas.
The key to success with these CDRs is choosing a design that is balanced, leaves adequate data capacity for your content, and will reliably load into a user's drive (see design guidelines). With cd players spinning faster and faster, an unbalanced cd could be a real problem! Send us your design needs, and we'll do the math for you! One big benefit clear layer substrate CDRs has over special shape CDRs is that balance is not an issue, so you have more freedom choosing a design. By the way, all this cutting is possible because CDRs are read from the inside hub to the outside. There's a hitch, though -- a special shape cd (or special substrate/clear cd) will hold less data than a regular cd. We can help you with any "how much less?" questions you may have.
Special shape CDRs are available in standard patterns or can be created to your specifications.
Custom patterns can be made in any design, provided that we can balance the cd.
Your packaging needs may be as special as your cd, let us know what they are and we'll research them for you! Standard packaging options such as vinyl sleeves are available too of course. See our regular cd replication price sheets for many, many options. And we can create custom packaging for your special needs.
