Frequently Asked Questions

What audio source formats does KABA support?

How should I prepare my cassette master for cassette duplication?

How should I prepare my DAT master for replication?

How should I prepare my CD-R master for CD replication?

What is the maximum / minimum program time for CDs?

I have questions about the graphics?

What can a bar code do for me and can I get one through KABA?

When can I expect delivery of my product?

Does KABA Audio have a recording studio?

Does KABA Audio offer mastering to improve my sound?

How can I protect my copyright?

Can I use other people's material?

 

What audio source formats does KABA support?
KABA supports the following formats: CD-R, DAT, cassette, reel, vinyl, mini-disc, microcassette, and wire. For CD replication only , you can also supply U-matic 1630 or Exabyte. KABA does not accept CD-RW.

How should I prepare my cassette master for cassette duplication?

1.) We accept: normal (type I), chrome (type II), or metal (type IV) tape, with or without Dolby B or C noise reduction. Masters with side A and side B should be mastered as follows: Record the program side with the longest running time first. At the end of the program, do not let tape run to the end of the cassette. Instead, stop tape and immediately turn cassette over to the other side and start recording the alternate program side at this starting point.

2.) Make sure you listen to and label your cassette master.

How should I prepare my DAT master for replication?

1.) KABA strongly suggests avoiding the use of 120 DAT tape for masters, as this may cause "digital glitches." This has been noted by other duplicators and may cause problems in duplication. Use a good name-brand DAT tape, 60-90 minutes long.

2.) Review all materials needed to complete your DAT master. Note where the "hottest", or highest level portion of your audio material is located. This will be used in setting levels to your DAT master. With your DAT machine set to monitor incoming signal, raise or lower your LED readout to register 0 at your loudest audio segment(s). If you observe any red warning indication, this will cause digital distortion (squelch) of your DAT master, so attenuate or back the levels down to make your maximum level 0 dB. A DAT cannot be driven to levels higher than 0 dB. Use a sampling rate of 44.1 kHz.

3.) Begin with rewinding your DAT master to the beginning. Record two minutes of digital silence. Then proceed with the "A-side" recording. Be sure to watch for the red LED warning lights. Should they light up during the recording process, lower your input levels appropriately and restart the recording process from the beginning. Also, be sure that your DAT has start IDs and absolute time at the beginning of each track. Another important thing to remember is that most DAT machines monitor only the "input signal" during recording. It is strongly suggested that you listen to the program material on your DAT in its entirety in playback after the initial recording. This is done to verify that there are no problems such as "dropouts" and/or "digital glitching."

4.) After the "A-side" DAT recording is completed, a "blank" section of one (1) minute should separate the end of the A-side and the start of the B-side recording. Start the recording of the B-side following the same procedures as you did for the A-side.

5.) A track sheet with the DAT master is mandatory. An audio track is a map or journal designating titles, times, locations and other information pertinent to the material contained on your DAT master such as false starts, noise, hidden tracks, etc. This information should answer quesions which may arise during the duplication and/or mastering procedures, avoiding possible delays. Remember, this is the first time KABA has heard your DAT, so any and all information supplied will assist us in delivering your product in a manner which will meet all your expectations. Also, please note the location of the loud segments or peak program levels.

6.) When all recording is complete, remember to move the safety tab on your DAT master to the "open hole" or "protected" position. This will prevent any accidental erasure of your valuable audio material. Make sure you correctly label your DAT master!

What is the maximum / minimum program time for CDs?
The maximum program time is 74:40. The minimum program time is 1 minute. The minimum track duration is 3 seconds. Short run (400 or less) CD-R jobs can be up to 80 minutes in length.

How should I prepare my CD-R master for CD replication?
Your CD-R's peak levels should be between -3dB and 0 dB. Make susre your disc is written in "disc-at-once" mode, track IDs are properly placed and the disc has been "closed" or "fixed-up." Keep your disc free from fingerprints, dust and scratches. Then listen to and label your CD-R master.

I have questions about the graphics?

I have questions about graphics and the package design?
KABA has full graphic design and production services. Please refer to the new Graphics Section for an overview of services, as well as art specifications and templates. Please refer to the Graphics FAQ if you have more art questions.

When can I expect delivery of my product?
The average delivery of an order of 1,000 CDs is 10-12 workdays after proof approval. Prompt delivery depends on the following: timely receipt of source materials, compliance with KABA specifications, prompt approval of all audio and graphic proofs.

The time of year can also be a factor affecting turnaround, particularly orders that are placed after October 31, because the Holiday Season starts to kick in around that time. Preparation for the Holiday Season can extend the turnaround time by as much as 2 additional weeks. To make sure your product is available at the start of the Holiday season, KABA recommends that you place your order in September.

Does KABA Audio have a recording studio?
KABA has a digital recording studio particularly designed for the spoken word. KABA's recording capability is limited to 4-track voice-over recordings. Should you need a 24 track recording facility, please call us and will be happy to recommend a studio in your area. The recording-editing studio rate at KABA is $60 per hour.

Does KABA Audio offer mastering to improve my sound?
Mastering involves making the entire audio program sound cohesive. KABA can provide mastering, and can improve your audio when requested. Our mastering and studio rates are $60 per hour plus media.

There are other mastering labs that specialize in and only mastering. Mastering labs charge considerably more than KABA , but the extra expense maybe worth it. Should you desire to have your mastering performed elsewhere, then give us a call: we will be glad to recommend a lab in your area.

What can a bar code do for me and can I get one through KABA?
Use of bar codes is vital to the distribution of recordings on a local, national and international scale. Bar codes are used to track inventory, and play an essential role in the data collected by SoundScan, which has a direct influence on placement in Billboard and other music charts. With a bar code, you can apply for a consignment contract at one of the music retail outlets and take advantage of online distribution. KABA can supply a bar code to your product. The five digits after the initial "6" represent the specific "manufacturer's number" assigned by the Uniform Code Council to KABA.

How can I protect my copyright?
Please refer to the U.S. Copyright Office at www.loc.gov/copyright

Can I use other people's material?
Copyright infringement is a federal offense and KABA will not duplicate music or data without copyright clearance.

You may obtain copyright clearance by contacting The Harry Fox Agency, Inc., 711 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017 212-370-5330, Fax: 212-953-2384 www.nmpa.org/hfa.html

Another source of information is the Recording Industry Association of America www.riaa.com

 

 



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