How to use backing-tracks on your CD/DVD presentation

As a CD/DVD Replicator our customers often ask us about issues surrounding video production and mastering. This month, wewow has partnered up with one of the leading authorities on the subject of using backing tracks, Ameritz, to provide you with some helpful tips and guidance. Here are their top tips for first time users;

• The first thing that many people can be confused by is the difference between Backing Tracks and Karaoke Tracks.
  Backing Tracks are professional recreations that can be used by amateur and professional singers alike for gigs and performances, Backing Tracks also come in either .mp3 (MPEG Layer 3) or MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) formats.
  Karaoke often comes in CD+G (Compact Disc + Graphics) format which has on screen lyrics that can be used on Karaoke machines.
  
  
• When selecting your backing tracks, if previews of the tracks are available always listen to them so that you have a rough idea of how the track will sound when you receive it.
  
  
• Backing tracks are often made with either MIDI Instruments, Live Instruments or a mixture of both. While MIDI instruments are improving all the time older MIDI tracks can sound dated, tracks with as many live instruments in often give the best sound through the gigging PA’s used by singers.

Further information, as well as thousands of professional backing tracks, can be found at www.ameritz.co.uk

And of course, once you have selected the perfect backing track to complete your CD or DVD, wewow will be on hand to replicate or duplicate your master disc and to complete the project with bespoke, eco-friendly packaging.

How to use custom printing to make your discs stand out from the crowd

So you’ve made the decision to use pressed and printed CDs or DVDs for your next marketing promotion or CD release. Did you know that there is much more available than standard full colour printing?

Many suppliers offer bespoke CD/DVD printing options and often there is only a minimal difference in cost. So why not create something unique…

• Pantone Colours
  You may already be aware of the benefits of using pantone colours with silk-screen print. However, there are many unusual spot colours which are not often utilized. Have you considered using metallic pantones to add that extra sparkle to your printed media? Or perhaps you want to make sure your printed discs can be spotted from a far, in which case fluorescent pantones are the perfect option. The possibilities really are endless and the wewow team are always on hand to offer guidance and inspiration!
  
  
• Selective White Base
  Although replicated CDs and DVDs are often printed with a standard white base, your design can be printed onto a selective white base for no extra cost. This allows the silver base of the disc to shine through and create a real contrast between your bold artwork and the base of the disc. wewow have prepared artwork guidelines to help you to set your artwork up in this way, so it really couldn’t be easier.
  
  
• Coloured Discs
  So it’s not just unique print options we’re talking about, the disc itself can be supplied in a multitude of colours. There’s no better way to make your discs stand out from the crowd than by printing your design onto an orange, pink or even gold disc!
  

Don’t forget to make the most of bespoke packaging - to compliment your unique printed discs wewow offer a range of bespoke, eco-friendly packaging, the perfect way to add the finishing touches to your project.

If you’d like further guidance on the printing and replication of optical media discs please contact wewow on 01274 301410 or sales@wewow.co.uk