FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
On this page, you will find answers to some of our most frequently asked questions. If you cannot find the answer to your question here, please feel free to contact us. When our chat is open, you can click the icon in the bottom right-hand corner. You can also call or email us. See all our contact details here »
I would like to place an order with you – how does the whole process work?
- Go to the product page.
- Make any optional selections and choose the quantity (the price will be adjusted according to the choices you make).
- Click the “Add to basket” button.
Proceed to checkout – enter your details, select your payment method and complete your order. - You will receive an order confirmation by email.
- Upload your print files and master via the file upload section in the menu.
- You will receive proofs of your print files for approval, as well as confirmation by email that your master is working correctly.
- Once you have approved the print +proofs, we will start production.
PLEASE NOTE!
For CD and DVD productions of up to 150 copies, we copy the submitted material onto recordable discs. Some CD/DVD players, particularly older models, may not be able to play these discs. However, this is considered a relatively limited issue, as more than 95% of our customers are able to play copied CDs/DVDs. If you want to be 100% certain that the discs will play on all players, we recommend choosing “pressed” CDs/DVDs instead (minimum 200 copies).
What applies to purchases/delivery to EU countries?
For private consumers, VAT is always added and paid directly when ordering in the webshop. This applies to all private consumers within the EU. Companies that are registered and operating within the EU can, however, make tax-free purchases directly in the webshop by providing a valid VAT/EORI number when placing an order.
You can check if your company has a valid VAT/EORI number here: europa.eu/taxation
What applies to purchases/delivery to non-EU countries)?
All private consumers and companies registered in non-EU countries (e.g., the USA or Switzerland), purchase tax-free (VAT) in the webshop.
All customers outside the EU will pay VAT and customs declaration fees when the ordered goods/products are delivered. This (VAT and customs fees) is paid on a separate invoice from UPS, the shipping company we use. CDs, DVDs, and vinyl records are all duty-free goods, but a small fee (approximately 15–20 Euros) applies for the customs declaration process itself.
The TARIC code (the static commodity code) used for clearing digital media (CDs and DVDs) is 85234939.
The TARIC code (the static commodity code) used for clearing analog media (vinyl records) is 85234920.
What is a catalog number?
A catalog number in the music industry is a unique code assigned by record labels or artists to each release. It is usually printed on the spine of the album case along with the artist's name, the album title, and the record label (if applicable).
The catalog number, which you create yourself, should consist of 2–7 letters followed by up to 7 digits. Typically, the catalog number includes an abbreviation of the record label's name, followed by the release’s sequential number.
Example: The artist EagleEye’s first release was assigned the catalog number EE001
Do you store the master and print files? – in case we need to produce more discs?
Absolutely! We store and archive all submitted and produced material for at least five (5) years. This way, you can easily place a repeat order (print on demand) by login to “My Account” and selecting “Buy Again”.
What is the delivery time?
As standard, we produce and deliver your production within approximately 14 business days – counted from the day you approve the print proof from our graphic designer.
If you select the VIP option at checkout, the delivery time is shortened to around 10–11 business days.
For vinyl productions, the delivery time is approximately 8–10 weeks from approved proof (test presses around 4–5 weeks).
However, please note that longer delivery times may occur in cases of A) large quantities, B) unusually high demand, or C) when the ordered production includes any type of special add-ons.
How is the order – the finished products – delivered to me?
Orders to private consumers and companies are usually shipped with UPS. Delivery time within Europe is approximately 2–5 business days**.
Orders for private consumers and companies that have chosen express delivery are shipped with UPS Express door to door services. Delivery time within Europe is then 1–2 business days**.
As soon as your order is dispatched from us, you will receive an email with a tracking link where you can follow your package(s) on their way to you!
** = For more remote addresses, which are outside UPS’s daily delivery routes, delivery will occur as soon as possible.
How do I submit my layout/artwork to you?
After placing your order and receiving an order confirmation with your order number via email, you can easily upload your layout/artwork directly to our file management server. Just click on "FILE UPLOAD" in the menu bar.
Do you have templates that I can use to set up my layout?
Yes, of course! Under each individual product in the webshop, you will find editable templates in PDF and InDesign formats. Download the template you prefer, open it in your layout software, and then place your artwork on separate layers.
How do I know that my layout/artwork has reached you and is suitable for production?
If you upload your layout/artwork via the digital file upload, you will see a confirmation message on the screen once the upload is complete. All incoming artwork/layout files are checked – and you will receive a digital PDF proof for approval via email once your files have been reviewed and approved.
If your artwork/layout files appear incorrect or require adjustments, we will contact you as soon as possible!
For more specific questions regarding layout, print file handling, and related topics, please contact print@discrepublic.com.
Which file formats do you recommend for layout/artwork?
We prefer editable PDFs (separate PDFs for CD, cover, and booklet) excluding the template. It is important that all fonts (text) are converted to outlines/paths. All images and links must also be embedded in the documents.
We can also accept print material as images (e.g., TIFF files), but they must be high-resolution and at least 300 dpi. The images must also be in CMYK (we recommend using the Coated FOGRA39 profile available in Photoshop).
I don’t have Illustrator, Photoshop, or InDesign – can I use another layout program?
No, that is the short answer. Programs like MS Word, Pages, PowerPoint, Keynote, and Publisher (just to name a few of the most common software on PC and Mac) are not suitable for creating or preparing print-ready files. Color management in these programs is poor, and there can be a significant difference between what you see on screen and what comes out of the printer.
There are also numerous Photoshop alternatives (often free to download and install), but they generally do not meet the quality standards of the original software.
I need help with my layout – can you assist me?
Of course! Graphic layout assistance can easily be selected as an add-on when you place an order. After placing your order, please email your idea of how you want your production to look to: print@discrepublic.com. And don’t forget to include your order number in the email!
How do I upload my master to you?
After placing your order and receiving an order confirmation with your order number via email, you can easily upload your master directly to our file management server. Simply click on the upload icon in the top menu bar, and you will be taken directly to the file upload page!
Is it okay if I mail a physical CD or DVD for you to use in my production?
Of course! If you want to send a physical master by mail, that works perfectly. Please send it in a padded and securely sealed envelope to the following address:
DiscRepublic.com
Attn: Master
Renvägen 10
SE-352 45 VÄXJÖ
Sweden
How do I know that my master has arrived and is suitable for the intended production?
If you upload your master via the digital file upload, you will see a confirmation message on the screen once the upload is complete. All received masters undergo a technical check – and you will receive a confirmation email once your master has been reviewed, tested, and approved.
If your master appears unusual or is clearly incorrect, we will contact you as soon as possible!
For more specific questions regarding master handling and related topics, please contact us at master@discrepublic.com.
Which file formats do you recommend for the master?
For music productions on CD, we strongly recommend DDP files, or alternatively uncompressed audio files in WAV or AIFF formats. Other supported formats include NRG, BIN & CUE, IMG, DMG, FLAC, and MP4. NOTE! If your CD master consists of multiple separate audio files, we recommend naming each file with the track number and title, e.g., "01-My First Song.wav". We also recommend placing all separate audio files in a single folder and compressing (zipping) the entire folder before uploading it to our file server.
For audiobook productions on CD, we recommend MP3 files, organized and sorted by chapter and reading order.
For DVD and Blu-ray productions, we recommend complete disc images in ISO format. AUDIO_TS/VIDEO_TS and BDMV folders are also acceptable, or alternatively uncompressed video files with embedded audio tracks in MP4 or MKV formats.
For music productions on vinyl and cassette, we recommend uncompressed audio files in WAV or AIFF formats. One file per A/B side including pauses between tracks. Please include a complete "tracklist" with timings. NOTE! Side A must be longer than Side B for cassette production.
What audio file quality is optimal for CD & cassette production?
How much music can I fit on a CD?
We use CDs with a maximum capacity of 80 minutes of audio. However, for compatibility reasons, we recommend that the total playtime of your material does not exceed 74 minutes (including pregap and pauses). This is because older CD players may have difficulty handling discs without a pregap or with playtimes exceeding 74 minutes.
Can you adjust the audio on my master?
The short answer is no. At DisRepublic, we do not perform mastering or studio work. We always assume that the material submitted to us is fully mastered and ready for production.
I have my master in a different file format than the ones you recommend – will it still work?
Yes, most likely we can convert your files into a fully compatible format. However, this may incur an additional handling fee for the conversion work, so please contact us in advance!
Specific questions regarding file formats, compatibility, and possible conversion can be directed to master@discrepublic.com.
I only have MP3 files – can I use them for an Audio CD production?
Yes, that is possible. However, you should be aware that MP3 is a compressed audio format, and the audio quality of your CD production may be slightly affected.
Should there be pauses between tracks on the master?
It is entirely up to you as the customer. Sometimes you may want two songs to “blend” seamlessly into each other, in which case there should be no pause between them. At Skivtryck, however, we recommend always including a pregap – also called an index or pre-gap – before the first track on the disc. Without a pregap, there is a risk that the CD may be difficult to play, or even unplayable, on older CD players.
NOTE! If you submit your master as separate audio files (e.g., WAV files), we will by default add a two (2) second pregap before each track on the master. So, if you do not want any pauses between tracks – or if you want pauses of varying lengths – please let us know when placing your order or in the message box when uploading your files to us.
What is the optimal quality for video/audio files for DVD production?
The highest possible resolution a DVD can display is 720 x 480 pixels in PAL format (720 x 576 pixels in NTSC format). Any video files or DVD masters with a higher resolution than this will automatically be re-encoded to the correct resolution.
How much video content can fit on a DVD?
A DVD5 disc (with a storage capacity of approximately 4.7 GB) can hold 136 minutes – 2 hours and 16 minutes – of video at the highest possible DVD quality.
A DVD9 disc (with a storage capacity of approximately 8.5 GB) can hold 247 minutes – 3 hours and 7 minutes – of video at the highest possible DVD quality.
What is the optimal quality for video/audio files for Blu-ray production?
The highest possible resolution a Blu-ray disc can display is 4K Ultra HD, which is 3840 x 2160 pixels. However, for a standard Blu-ray, the resolution is usually 1920 x 1080 pixels, which is HD quality in a 16:9 aspect ratio.
What audio file quality is optimal for vinyl production?
Uncompressed audio at 48 kHz and 24-bit depth.
NOTE! Important information before your vinyl production:
Important information for vinyl pressing
How much music can I fit on a vinyl record?
A 12” LP, cut at 33.3 RPM, holds approximately 23 minutes of music per side, depending slightly on the dynamics and overall volume of the audio content.
A 12” maxi single, cut at 45 RPM, holds approximately 12 minutes of music per side, depending slightly on the dynamics and overall volume of the audio content.
A 7” EP, cut at 33.3 RPM, holds approximately 6 minutes 40 seconds of music per side, depending slightly on the dynamics and overall volume of the audio content.
A 7” single, cut at 45 RPM, holds approximately 5 minutes of music per side, depending slightly on the dynamics and overall volume of the audio content.
What is the delivery time for vinyl productions?
Vinyl productions are delivered in approximately 8–10 weeks – calculated from the day you approve the print proof from our graphic designer. Allow at least 4 extra weeks on top of this time for any potential record release.
Can you press colored vinyl records?
Yes, no problem! For a small additional fee, we offer vinyl productions in a wide range of both solid and transparent colors. Feel free to contact us at order@discrepublic.com and we’ll tell you more!
I would like to place an order with you – how does the whole process work?
- Go to the product page.
- Make any optional selections and choose the quantity (the price will be adjusted according to the choices you make).
- Click the “Add to basket” button.
Proceed to checkout – enter your details, select your payment method and complete your order. - You will receive an order confirmation by email.
- Upload your print files and master via the file upload section in the menu.
- You will receive proofs of your print files for approval, as well as confirmation by email that your master is working correctly.
- Once you have approved the print +proofs, we will start production.
PLEASE NOTE!
For CD and DVD productions of up to 150 copies, we copy the submitted material onto recordable discs. Some CD/DVD players, particularly older models, may not be able to play these discs. However, this is considered a relatively limited issue, as more than 95% of our customers are able to play copied CDs/DVDs. If you want to be 100% certain that the discs will play on all players, we recommend choosing “pressed” CDs/DVDs instead (minimum 200 copies).
What applies to purchases/delivery to EU countries?
For private consumers, VAT is always added and paid directly when ordering in the webshop. This applies to all private consumers within the EU. Companies that are registered and operating within the EU can, however, make tax-free purchases directly in the webshop by providing a valid VAT/EORI number when placing an order.
You can check if your company has a valid VAT/EORI number here: europa.eu/taxation
What applies to purchases/delivery to non-EU countries)?
All private consumers and companies registered in non-EU countries (e.g., the USA or Switzerland), purchase tax-free (VAT) in the webshop.
All customers outside the EU will pay VAT and customs declaration fees when the ordered goods/products are delivered. This (VAT and customs fees) is paid on a separate invoice from UPS, the shipping company we use. CDs, DVDs, and vinyl records are all duty-free goods, but a small fee (approximately 15–20 Euros) applies for the customs declaration process itself.
The TARIC code (the static commodity code) used for clearing digital media (CDs and DVDs) is 85234939.
The TARIC code (the static commodity code) used for clearing analog media (vinyl records) is 85234920.
What is a catalog number?
A catalog number in the music industry is a unique code assigned by record labels or artists to each release. It is usually printed on the spine of the album case along with the artist's name, the album title, and the record label (if applicable).
The catalog number, which you create yourself, should consist of 2–7 letters followed by up to 7 digits. Typically, the catalog number includes an abbreviation of the record label's name, followed by the release’s sequential number.
Example: The artist EagleEye’s first release was assigned the catalog number EE001
Do you store the master and print files? – in case we need to produce more discs?
Absolutely! We store and archive all submitted and produced material for at least five (5) years. This way, you can easily place a repeat order (print on demand) by login to “My Account” and selecting “Buy Again”.
What is the delivery time?
As standard, we produce and deliver your production within approximately 14 business days – counted from the day you approve the print proof from our graphic designer.
If you select the VIP option at checkout, the delivery time is shortened to around 10–11 business days.
For vinyl productions, the delivery time is approximately 8–10 weeks from approved proof (test presses around 4–5 weeks).
However, please note that longer delivery times may occur in cases of A) large quantities, B) unusually high demand, or C) when the ordered production includes any type of special add-ons.
How is the order – the finished products – delivered to me?
Orders to private consumers and companies are usually shipped with UPS. Delivery time within Europe is approximately 2–5 business days**.
Orders for private consumers and companies that have chosen express delivery are shipped with UPS Express door to door services. Delivery time within Europe is then 1–2 business days**.
As soon as your order is dispatched from us, you will receive an email with a tracking link where you can follow your package(s) on their way to you!
** = For more remote addresses, which are outside UPS’s daily delivery routes, delivery will occur as soon as possible.
How do I submit my layout/artwork to you?
After placing your order and receiving an order confirmation with your order number via email, you can easily upload your layout/artwork directly to our file management server. Just click on "FILE UPLOAD" in the menu bar.
Do you have templates that I can use to set up my layout?
Yes, of course! Under each individual product in the webshop, you will find editable templates in PDF and InDesign formats. Download the template you prefer, open it in your layout software, and then place your artwork on separate layers.
How do I know that my layout/artwork has reached you and is suitable for production?
If you upload your layout/artwork via the digital file upload, you will see a confirmation message on the screen once the upload is complete. All incoming artwork/layout files are checked – and you will receive a digital PDF proof for approval via email once your files have been reviewed and approved.
If your artwork/layout files appear incorrect or require adjustments, we will contact you as soon as possible!
For more specific questions regarding layout, print file handling, and related topics, please contact print@discrepublic.com.
Which file formats do you recommend for layout/artwork?
We prefer editable PDFs (separate PDFs for CD, cover, and booklet) excluding the template. It is important that all fonts (text) are converted to outlines/paths. All images and links must also be embedded in the documents.
We can also accept print material as images (e.g., TIFF files), but they must be high-resolution and at least 300 dpi. The images must also be in CMYK (we recommend using the Coated FOGRA39 profile available in Photoshop).
I don’t have Illustrator, Photoshop, or InDesign – can I use another layout program?
No, that is the short answer. Programs like MS Word, Pages, PowerPoint, Keynote, and Publisher (just to name a few of the most common software on PC and Mac) are not suitable for creating or preparing print-ready files. Color management in these programs is poor, and there can be a significant difference between what you see on screen and what comes out of the printer.
There are also numerous Photoshop alternatives (often free to download and install), but they generally do not meet the quality standards of the original software.
I need help with my layout – can you assist me?
Of course! Graphic layout assistance can easily be selected as an add-on when you place an order. After placing your order, please email your idea of how you want your production to look to: print@discrepublic.com. And don’t forget to include your order number in the email!
How do I upload my master to you?
After placing your order and receiving an order confirmation with your order number via email, you can easily upload your master directly to our file management server. Simply click on the upload icon in the top menu bar, and you will be taken directly to the file upload page!
Is it okay if I mail a physical CD or DVD for you to use in my production?
Of course! If you want to send a physical master by mail, that works perfectly. Please send it in a padded and securely sealed envelope to the following address:
DiscRepublic.com
Attn: Master
Renvägen 10
SE-352 45 VÄXJÖ
Sweden
How do I know that my master has arrived and is suitable for the intended production?
If you upload your master via the digital file upload, you will see a confirmation message on the screen once the upload is complete. All received masters undergo a technical check – and you will receive a confirmation email once your master has been reviewed, tested, and approved.
If your master appears unusual or is clearly incorrect, we will contact you as soon as possible!
For more specific questions regarding master handling and related topics, please contact us at master@discrepublic.com.
Which file formats do you recommend for the master?
For music productions on CD, we strongly recommend DDP files, or alternatively uncompressed audio files in WAV or AIFF formats. Other supported formats include NRG, BIN & CUE, IMG, DMG, FLAC, and MP4. NOTE! If your CD master consists of multiple separate audio files, we recommend naming each file with the track number and title, e.g., "01-My First Song.wav". We also recommend placing all separate audio files in a single folder and compressing (zipping) the entire folder before uploading it to our file server.
For audiobook productions on CD, we recommend MP3 files, organized and sorted by chapter and reading order.
For DVD and Blu-ray productions, we recommend complete disc images in ISO format. AUDIO_TS/VIDEO_TS and BDMV folders are also acceptable, or alternatively uncompressed video files with embedded audio tracks in MP4 or MKV formats.
For music productions on vinyl and cassette, we recommend uncompressed audio files in WAV or AIFF formats. One file per A/B side including pauses between tracks. Please include a complete "tracklist" with timings. NOTE! Side A must be longer than Side B for cassette production.
What audio file quality is optimal for CD & cassette production?
How much music can I fit on a CD?
We use CDs with a maximum capacity of 80 minutes of audio. However, for compatibility reasons, we recommend that the total playtime of your material does not exceed 74 minutes (including pregap and pauses). This is because older CD players may have difficulty handling discs without a pregap or with playtimes exceeding 74 minutes.
Can you adjust the audio on my master?
The short answer is no. At DisRepublic, we do not perform mastering or studio work. We always assume that the material submitted to us is fully mastered and ready for production.
I have my master in a different file format than the ones you recommend – will it still work?
Yes, most likely we can convert your files into a fully compatible format. However, this may incur an additional handling fee for the conversion work, so please contact us in advance!
Specific questions regarding file formats, compatibility, and possible conversion can be directed to master@discrepublic.com.
I only have MP3 files – can I use them for an Audio CD production?
Yes, that is possible. However, you should be aware that MP3 is a compressed audio format, and the audio quality of your CD production may be slightly affected.
Should there be pauses between tracks on the master?
It is entirely up to you as the customer. Sometimes you may want two songs to “blend” seamlessly into each other, in which case there should be no pause between them. At Skivtryck, however, we recommend always including a pregap – also called an index or pre-gap – before the first track on the disc. Without a pregap, there is a risk that the CD may be difficult to play, or even unplayable, on older CD players.
NOTE! If you submit your master as separate audio files (e.g., WAV files), we will by default add a two (2) second pregap before each track on the master. So, if you do not want any pauses between tracks – or if you want pauses of varying lengths – please let us know when placing your order or in the message box when uploading your files to us.
What is the optimal quality for video/audio files for DVD production?
The highest possible resolution a DVD can display is 720 x 480 pixels in PAL format (720 x 576 pixels in NTSC format). Any video files or DVD masters with a higher resolution than this will automatically be re-encoded to the correct resolution.
How much video content can fit on a DVD?
A DVD5 disc (with a storage capacity of approximately 4.7 GB) can hold 136 minutes – 2 hours and 16 minutes – of video at the highest possible DVD quality.
A DVD9 disc (with a storage capacity of approximately 8.5 GB) can hold 247 minutes – 3 hours and 7 minutes – of video at the highest possible DVD quality.
What is the optimal quality for video/audio files for Blu-ray production?
The highest possible resolution a Blu-ray disc can display is 4K Ultra HD, which is 3840 x 2160 pixels. However, for a standard Blu-ray, the resolution is usually 1920 x 1080 pixels, which is HD quality in a 16:9 aspect ratio.
What audio file quality is optimal for vinyl production?
Uncompressed audio at 48 kHz and 24-bit depth.
NOTE! Important information before your vinyl production:
Important information for vinyl pressing
How much music can I fit on a vinyl record?
A 12” LP, cut at 33.3 RPM, holds approximately 23 minutes of music per side, depending slightly on the dynamics and overall volume of the audio content.
A 12” maxi single, cut at 45 RPM, holds approximately 12 minutes of music per side, depending slightly on the dynamics and overall volume of the audio content.
A 7” EP, cut at 33.3 RPM, holds approximately 6 minutes 40 seconds of music per side, depending slightly on the dynamics and overall volume of the audio content.
A 7” single, cut at 45 RPM, holds approximately 5 minutes of music per side, depending slightly on the dynamics and overall volume of the audio content.
What is the delivery time for vinyl productions?
Vinyl productions are delivered in approximately 8–10 weeks – calculated from the day you approve the print proof from our graphic designer. Allow at least 4 extra weeks on top of this time for any potential record release.
Can you press colored vinyl records?
Yes, no problem! For a small additional fee, we offer vinyl productions in a wide range of both solid and transparent colors. Feel free to contact us at order@discrepublic.com and we’ll tell you more!