Worst woes for a first time producer (part 2): Preparing the master
by webmaster
Other posts by webmaster
It might be trivial to write about this. However a master that is poorly prepared and kept is indeed a waste of time and effort! So, we have to at least talk about it once.
How to burn the master?
Use a high quality media. A reputable brand DVD goes a long way. Maxell, TDK, Ritek, Taiyo Yuden and Mitsui, to name a few, are trusted brands that we recommend.
Handle your media carefully, even blank ones. The disc has to be lint, fingerprint free before recorded on.
When burning the master it is best to keep it at low speeds. Even if you are capable of burning 8x, keeping it slow on the master will ensure data accuracy.
Forms of master
There are 2 forms of acceptable master, DVD-R and DLT (Digital Linear Tape). Back in the days DLT was the only acceptable format of master. Nowadays most replicators will take DVD-R as well. There are pros and cons to both formats. DLT tapes are more durable, reliable and therefore considered a low-risk format.
DVD-R in general is more fragile, easy to scratch and not capable of storing CSS, region code, Macrovision and other copy protection data. A common problem with DVD-R is the existence of unreadable sectors. They can be caused by bad media, burner problems and mishandling. DVD-R is increasingly popular because it is widely available, cheaper and can be tested on DVD players.
Testing? What testing?
The DVD has been testing in simulation mode, and a master has been carefully burned. The replicator will do the rest right? Well, before you send it off, it is crucial that you do final testing on the master. Play it on your home/office DVD player, from start to finish. Try all menus and buttons. Make sure navigation, video and sound are what you expect. Play it on your computer DVD player as well if you have one. Replicators do not assume any responsibility if the master sent has defects that are unrelated to mastering and replication process.
If you are unsure how your master will turn out as replicated, ask for a check disc from the replicator. Check discs are usually free. The extra couple of days it takes to create the check disc will give you peace of mind and reduce the risk of spending thousands of dollars on a faulty master.
Sending the master
Finally you are near the end of the tunnel, the master has been carefully created and tested. Make sure when it is sent out, it is securely protected. Use a paper sleeve, jewel case or amaray box to hold the DVD. A physically damaged or scratched DVD can cause unreadable sectors and you will end up sending in duplicate masters.
If there is more than one master, store them in separate boxes. NEVER send your only copy of the master! Always save a copy for yourself. If the master disc does get damaged during transit, you will not be left with re-creating the master all over again!
