The Added Quality of Premastering

For many of you, getting discs made simply involves mailing off your master, and then getting a shipment of replicated discs at your door days later. Of course, a lot happens during that time that you might not be aware of. For instance, each master we receive for replication goes through a pre-mastering process, where playability and authoring (if applicable) are analyzed. Even if an audio CD or DVD master plays fine on your player, the data itself could still contain errors; errors which could cause compatibility issues on certain players. Using our Eclipse system, structural elements of the discs are examined, including sectors and VOBU length, coding, IFO and BUP files. As complicated as this might sound, pre-mastering essentially lets our customers know that their replicated discs will be as accurate as possible. By testing each master before we replicate, and notifying you of any potential concerns, we ensure a higher quality replicated disc. It's just another way we strive to get you the best quality product possible.

Double Duplication Capacity

Speaking of recordable media, we've doubled our capacity for CD-R and DVD-R duplication. Adding multiple new towers to our system, with the ability to print and record a larger variety of media types (like the high resolution disc mentioned above), we are your essential source for any kind of media duplication imaginable. Literally, whatever you need, whenever you need it, we can do it.

Short Run, High Resolution

There are times when you only need a few discs, but you want them to look like you pressed a million. There are times when you also need them extremely quick. No problem! We now offer a quick turn CD-R/DVD-R that features high resolution, high gloss, smudge-proof, waterproof inkjet printing. Similar looking to offset printed discs, these discs are perfect for quick-turn, short-run projects that include photographic elements within their design. Ask us about adding high resolution printing on your next CD-R or DVD-R project.

Ready, Set, Retail!

A growing number of our customers are looking to sell their digital media projects in a retail environment. But most large retailers do not accept products without a barcode. Fear not, GLMT can print and apply barcode labels for a variety of CD and DVD packages. People working in entertainment sectors, film, software, and publishing need to follow standards for retail tracking and processing in order to have their products placed. Now we will be able to help those people get their products to market.

The process is simple. Customers can either provide existing barcodes or purchase them through Great Lakes Media Technology. The labels are then printed with the corresponding product information and applied to the spine of the packaging. Once these products arrive at retail locations, the barcode labels are scanned upon purchase for the retailer's inventory. Let us know if you need spine barcode labels on your next project.

Video Master Formats

Interested in transfering video footage to a different format? Or, just interested in making some more copies? Here's a handy list of our format capabilities for whatever your needs might be. Bring in your master on any of these formats and we'll help you out.

Betacam SP
Digital Betacam
Betacam SX
MPEG IMX (Betacam)
Beta
VHS
S-VHS
D-2
3/4"
1"
Mini-DV
DV-CAM
DVC PRO
HI-8
Digital 8
DVD-R/RW
D9 HD

Also, if you're bringing in your master for a project and you're concerned that the shell or tape might be damaged, it may be possible to repair. Let us know your concerns and we'll do our best to fix it before proceeding with the job.

Anti-Piracy

GLMT has added HexaLock CD Copy Protection Technology to our CD services. Now, virtually any content type distributed on CD-R or CD-ROM can be protected from illegal copying and use. Be sure to ask us about copy protecting individual files, or the entire program, on your next project.

Choosing the Right DVD Authoring Software

There are a variety of DVD authoring software options available today, and there will likely be even more of them in the future. While some might be low-cost, "easy-to-use," or bundled with another program you've purchased, there are definite differences in the capabilities of each program, which can seriously affect the functionality of the disc if you choose to have it replicated. For professional quality authoring, we recommend using the following software products to ensure your program is created "replication ready":

Apple:
DVD Studio Pro 3 and higher
Compressor 2 or higher

Adobe:
Encore 2 or higher

Sonic:
DVD Producer 5 or higher
Scenarist (any version)
DVDit

Ulead:
DVD Workshop 2

Sony:
DVD Architect

When a DVD master fails in the pre-mastering testing process, it usually can be traced to the version or format of software used to author the content. If you are authoring a program yourself, we recommend using one of the products mentioned above. Of course, having your content encoded and authored by Great Lakes Media Technology will ensure that there are no issues with your master when it goes into production. Call us with any questions on how we can help you with your authoring project.

Jewel Case Alternative: The Hardbox

Tired of cracked cases? Like the hefty outer graphic real estate of DVD cases? Then your solution is here. The Hardbox combines the best of both worlds: A DVD styled case with a jewel case size. Because it's a clear case surrounded by a wrap sleeve, the outer wrap can be printed in color on both sides to provide a continuous image on both the outside and inside of the case - something that's more challenging to produce on the multiple printed pieces within a jewel case. Also, it's one solid piece - disc tray and case, which brings the material cost per unit below that of a jewel case. The Hardbox is a fine alternative to a long-time standard. Call us for more info.

Scratch and Theft Proof

Have you ever purchased a disc only to open it and find that the hub that held the disc had broken, leaving the disc to shake freely within the case, scratching the bottom to the point of playback issues? Have you ever produced a retail disc where thieves slipped the case open to take the disc, bypassing the security tag? Both of these scenarios can be avoided with the GLMT Security Case. The Security Case is identical in size to a standard DVD case, but includes two movable braces that securely hold the disc within its tray against hub breakage or attempted theft. A simple but ingenious new way to add extra protection for your discs.

GLMT Adds Another Piece to the Da Vinci Code

On the heels of this popular novel and film comes the nationally distributed board game, available through Barnes and Noble, Borders, Target, and other retailers. The Da Vinci Code game includes a variety of components for playing the game with, and also an instructional DVD, manufactured and printed by Great Lakes Media Technology. It's no mystery that we were delighted to take part in such a high profile project, and it's another great example of using digital media capabilities to enhance print formats and products. More info on the game can be found here.

LP or CD?

It certainly looks like a vinyl record, but it's actually a CD. Canadian Brass recently approached us with a project idea for their next disc. In order to tie the theme of the music (Dixieland Jazz) to the release, they wanted a look that would bring past and present together. So, they had us design the face of the CD to look like an older media format - the vinyl LP. The group thought it was a perfect combination. Here's what founding member Chuck Daellenbach had to say:

"Luther Henderson has placed the Canadian Brass in direct touch with the music of the America jazz era-the first half of the twentieth century. We tried to create the mood of that era in several ways, and then we hit upon one of the most obvious links to the past . . . the grooved disc. As soon as one sees the old-disc look, the association is undeniable. We thought that this visually prepares listeners for the classic jazz music they are about to experience."

To experience this package and music yourself, pick up a copy by going here. If you're thinking about creating a similar look for your next project, or something entirely unique, let us know. We'll make it happen, and possibly feature your project in an upcoming newsletter.

A New Level In Print Advertising: e:Patch

A lot of people get information from magazines. While many publications have switched to web, many are still printed due to consumer demands. At some point, magazine readers have likely turned the page to find a CD-ROM attached to an advertisement. This is known as an e:Patch, and can be applied in large quantities to any magazine or catalog publication in order to supply a disc in conjunction with the ad. As competitive and challenging as it is to get your ad noticed, it would be pretty hard to miss a disc attached to the page. If your company does higher volume advertising in magazines, or produces a catalog that you wish had a stronger direct link to online ordering, call us today to find out how the e:Patch can work for you.

As we approach our tenth year in business, it's amazing to realize all of the stories we've helped people tell over the years. From individuals to Fortune 500 companies, everyone has a story, and we're proud to have been able to help so many people through digital communication. This very email is an example of how we've helped people stay in touch with each other. Plus, corporate training videos, product catalogs, audio CDs, independent films; the stories that have been told are nearly endless, and we look forward to hearing and seeing many more. Here are some words from our partners that reflect these sentiments:

"Thank you for your efforts with my price book project. I am very pleased with how everything turned out." - S. Bemowski

"I can't tell you how beautiful they (DVDs) look--so professional. I sold quite a few at the event this past weekend so I thank you for all your help!!" - A. Nemanic

What's your story? How are you telling it? Give us a call and we'll help you tell your story.

Revolutionary Visual Media Packaging: Steelbook

An amazing development in packaging, the SteelBook consists of a metal exterior and an inner core of plastic (similar to a standard DVD case), with outer dimensions exactly the same as a standard DVD case.

Creative use of packaging can ensure that your product or promotional media attracts attention, and Steelbook is one of the most impressive examples of this we've seen in a long time. The product offers a full range of design possibilities and is suitable for printing and embossing. Print on metal is approaching photographic quality, and as a medium, metal can create unique aesthetic qualities able to capture both a modern and contemporary feel. Also, decorated tins have often become collectors' items and valued gifts in themselves. From a promotional, marketing and selling standpoint, Steelbook is a total packaging solution. Call us to discuss how this packaging can work for your project.

Rockstar '06

GLMT returns as co-sponsor of this yearly competition. The Rockstar Project was created to discover new vocalists and to provide these vocalists with publicity, performance opportunities and the start of a great career. The Rockstar Project's auditions, contestants, producers and entire competition is profiled extensively by 94.5 WKTI and Time Warner Cable's "Wisconsin on Demand" Digital Channel 1111. GLMT took part by manufacturing and printing the CD release for this year's winning contestent, Terry Dewit. Congratulations, Terry! And thanks to The Rockstar Project for another outstanding event. Visit The Rockstar Project.

DVD Demystified III

The third edition of the most well-known DVD facts resource is now available, reflecting the current state of technology and capabilities of this format. Written by Jim Taylor and published by McGraw Hill, this edition features expanded content on blue-laser physical formats, HD content and advanced interactivity. Check out reviews and more info on the book at Amazon.

Burst Records Launch

After years of crafting music for companies such as BMW and Gatorade, shows like American Idol and West Wing, Burst Records has begun releasing music to the public. Having worked with Burst on the disc manufacturing and packaging side of their business for a number of years, we knew what they'd be looking for when it came to launching their new Burst Records web site. We built the site using HTML, Flash, CSS, Javascript, PHP, and XML to present the artist/release info, sound samples, and purchase options with easy-to-use navigation, while maintaining the company's overall branding. Take a look at the work here and learn more about Burst Records too!

GLMT at ACCM Chicago

Next month we'll be exhibiting at the ACCM Show, a conference to help businesses exceed their customers' multichannel expectations and increase their profits. We'll be showcasing some specific products that will help drive response rates, usability, and buyer interest for catalog and direct mail producers. The show runs from May 8 - 10 at the McCormick Place in Chicago. Contact us to receive a brochure (while they last) or visit the conference web site here for more information. Hope to see you there!

Interactive Communication

The recent issue of Communication Arts announced that they are accepting submissions for their 12th annual Interactive Design Competition. Participants may enter work done for CD-ROM, Web, kiosk, or handheld devices. In previous competitions, winners have included such giants as Harley Davidson, Nike, Windows, Virgin, and Borders. It's great to keep an eye on these competitions and see what some big-time advertisers are doing to differentiate themselves. We all use this technology to communicate our ideas, so it's smart to question how we're doing it, and how we can do it better. Can you think of a recent CD-ROM that really struck you? A Web site that you like to check on daily? Think about the reasons behind those feelings, and use those to inspire how you develop your own interactive communications. Check out our recent list of pride and joy here, and let us know how we can work together to make your communications stronger.

Holographic Media

While many people are focusing on the debate between HD and Blu-Ray as the next entertainment media format, Holographic Media is also making plans to emerge on the market this year. The initial marketing efforts for the 300GB disc seem to be focusing on its strengths as an ideal archiving media. Maxell Europe has announced its release of the media for September 2006, stating it will have the ability to store millions of pages, and hours and hours of High-Definition video footage. In essence, this development shows us that digital media continues to grow based on technological advancements, and we'll be sure to keep you posted on where it goes next.

GLMT at NAMM

We just returned from the NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA where we witnessed some of our DVD work being utilized by Fender Guitars. This international conference lasted 4 days and was packed to the hilt with manufacturers presenting their new products. Many utilized DVD as their method of advertising. With so many companies at the show, these video screens were hard to miss, and really kept your attention. It's great to see this type of effort and know that you helped make it happen. The best part is that more and more people can utilize this technology at trade shows as the cost for broadcasting your DVD is becoming more affordable. Interested in setting something like this up for your next show? Let us know. We'll give you all the info you'll need to make it happen for your company.