We take CDs and DVDs for granted these days, throwing them on the desk, stuffing them 3 at a time into paper envelopes. But if we truly want these repositories of precious music and data to last, we need to handle them carefully. Here are a few points you may or may not know.
- The data side (bottom) of the disc must remain free from scratches, fingerprints, dust, etc.
- Cleaning the disc can actually damage it.
- NEVER touch either surface.
- Handle by the edges (or center hole).
- NEVER set a disc down on a hard surface.
- Return disc to its jewelcase to when done.
- NEVER write on the data side of the disc. If you must write on a disc, write ONLY on the label side (top) and ONLY with an approved marking device such as felt-tip, non-toxic permanent ink — NEVER USE A BALLPOINT PEN!
- Don’t let the bottom of the disc touch anything other than the player or the case it came in. I’m amazed at the scratched-up, greasy-fingerprinted premasters that I’ve seen.
- Use quality media. Taiyo Yuden are considered the best in the industry.
- NEVER leave an unprotected disc in direct sunlight – it will deteriorate the data. DO NOT expose to excessively hot and/or humid environments
- Never clean in a rotary fashion. If it becomes necessary to clean the disc, use a soft, dry cloth, rubbing gently, always from the middle towards the outside. This will minimize errors if you accidentally scratch the surface (the data starts from the center in). We recommend a micro-fine cloth available from most optometrists for eye glasses.
- Even slight bending of a disc can cause stress fractures. The aluminum then becomes deformed, causing some ridges to be blocked. As a consequence, error correction always has to be applied in that area, affecting the final sound.