The following is a list of resources for common technical questions.
CD-TEXT:
CD-TEXT is an extension of the Red Book Compact Disc specifications standard for the audio CD that allows for the addition and storage of information such as artist name, album title, and song titles and so on in the sub code of the CD. The support of CD-TEXT has been slowly accepted by manufacturers, but is rapidly increasing year by year. Today, most car players and multidisc players such as your home DVD player now will read this CD-TEXT that has been encoded into the master. However, many popular computer applications such as iTunes and Windows Media Player use a different method of obtaining this information known as online databases. In addition to CD-TEXT information, online databases can also store information such as album artwork and lyrics. Every database has a different method for uploading this information. The following are a few links that can assist you in this process.
ISRC:
An ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) is a unique digital identifying code that is embedded into the sub code area of your Final Mastered Files. These codes are widely used by digital download sites and collecting organizations which assist them in royalty payments. These digital fingerprints that are assigned to each song are becoming standard and required by download vendors such as iTunes. You can obtain more information on how to acquire these codes by visiting RIAA or IFPI web sites.
BARCODES:
Bar Codes or UPCs (Uniform Product Codes) are unique identifiers utilized globally by both distributors and retailers to assist in the tracking, inventory, and sales of all types of products. You can obtain your own UPC by contacting the UC Council.
LICENSING:
If you are mastering music that you did not compose and do not have a mechanical licensing agreement in place, you must secure a licensing agreement prior to the duplication of you CD. All reputable manufacturing plants adhere to the RIAA strict standards with regard to licensing documentation. For information on licensing, visit NMPA (National Music Publisher’ Association) website.