When it comes to CD duplication, image is everything. I am not saying that your CD has to look like Universal Records distributed it, but there should be some level of professionalism used when designing the graphics. Most artists plan to duplicate their demos and give them away to the public free of charge. Artists that give free Cd's away experience a loss of income in exchange for advertising their music, and therefore will try to spend as little as possible when manufacturing the discs.
When you are giving away music for free it would be wise to find a cheap audio cd duplication service when manufacturing the discs, but one must not compromise the quality of the appearance of the disc in the process. When people first pick up your CD, the first thing that will make an impression on them is the way your CD looks. Money should not be the only factor that concerns you when it comes to your music.
I understand that the most important factor to consider is the way your music sounds. It is true that the greatest weight of judgment by listeners will lie on the way your music sounds, but if you are an experienced unsigned artist like me, you will know that most people who receive a CD from an unsigned artist will already expect him or her not to sound professional. You already have one strike against you just for being an unsigned artist. Appearance is a strike that you can do something about so don't receive this premature strike against yourself. Do a good audio cd duplication job.
How do I achieve good graphics?
First of all, don't write on your CDs. The days of writing on your Cd's with a sharpie marker are over. Secondly, you should find a company that provides a cheap cd duplication service, and will duplicate and print graphics directly on the surface of your CD at an affordable price ($0.80 per disc). Finally, you should make sure that the company uses high quality discs. You shouldn't search for the cheapest price because those with the cheapest prices will likely use the cheapest discs that may scratch easily. One day someone will ask you if they can purchase one of your demos, and you will not want to sell them a cheap disc that will scratch easily.
What are good graphics?
Good graphics could be anything that your heart desires, however I do recommend that your graphics be eye catching. Do not be afraid to use color with your graphics. It has been proven that color attracts people. Good Luck!
