Embedding ISRC Codes

[kyleknapp]

I'm trying to burn a duplication master, with embedded CD-Text, including Track Names, ISRC and UPC codes.

CD Architect is supposed to do all this, but as far as I can tell only the Track Names/ Artist names are actually being encoded on the disc - ISRC codes and UPC codes are not there.

So just for comparison, I put in a copy of my own last CD, which was mastered at a "professional" mastering studio - it contains no CD-Text at all, no track names, no ISRCs. Same with my previous 2 CDs.

I'm getting really frustrated - is there a CD burning program that ACTUALLY does this? Is it really that important? Does anybody really do it?

And why did that mastering studio insist on having my ISRC and UPC codes, and typing them into the PQ Log (they're in the printout I gave to the replicator along with the Master Disc), if nobody was going to use them? Or was it the replicator shop that dropped the ball?

Thanks,
~kyle

[Bigduggieface]

As far as I know, the ISRC and UPC codes as well as the CD text are embedded into each audio track once the finished tracks are assembled and the CD Production Master is burned to CD. This should include the PQ codes as well.

I have no experience using CD Architect, but I use Wavelab 5 and it works great. I'm sure CD Architect must do everything that Wavelab does.

Using Wavelab, you need to assemble the CD using what's called an Audio Montage. This basically creates a template which assembles each of your songs in the proper order. You can then individually add CD text, ISRC, and UPC codes to each song. Once the songs are in the proper order, and all of the said text information has been entered correctly, you can burn the finished Red Book CD.

I haven't used any UPC codes before, but I do know that you will need to apply for your ISRC registration codes and pay a one-time $75 fee. For more information about the ISRC codes and where to apply can be found at the International Standard Recording Code website (click HERE).

In my opinion, unless you are selling scads of individual songs on iTunes or over the internet, the ISRC codes are not of major importance. The codes are used for inventory and multi-sales purposes similar to what the Billboard charts did in their heyday. Unless you are selling big at home and internationally, you might do just fine without the ISRC registration for the time being.

At least it sounds like you're able to add the artist/track name to each song. That's the most important.

If the codes and CD text show up on your master CD, they should also appear on every copy as well. If the copies are different than the master, they are not true copies.