CD/DVD replication is a term used to describe large quantity copying of CD/DVDs. CD/DVD replication is the industry standard for making mass quantities of a CD/DVD. Replication is done from scratch, and CD/DVD's are injection molded from plastic pellets and then are covered in reflective material and stamped with the audio information. This is in contrast to CD/DVD duplication where CD/DVD-R technology is used to create smaller quantity runs. CD/DVD replication is done for quantities above 500 CD/DVDs. Any quantity below this range would fall under the short-run classification.

Benefits

• CD/DVD replication offers a lower per disc cost on quantities above 1000.
• CD/DVD replication offers 100% compatibility for audio and data CD/DVDs.
• Allows for low priced full color coverage of the disc surface via silk screening or offset printing.

Drawbacks

• Replication is a slow process generally requiring 2 weeks to complete.
• Replication is cost prohibitive for quantities under 500.

Source: Wikipedia