Learn About Mastering your own DVD

You can do your own DVD duplication or you can create a master for outsourcing the replication. If you are authoring your own DVD, here are several key points to keep in mind:

Bitrate - If possible, limit your maximum video bitrate to no more than 6mbps (megabits per second). This maximizes playback compatibility on older players, computers, etc.

Audio - I strongly recommend using Dolby Digital (AC-3) audio. If you cannot produce Dolby Digital, then PCM (uncompressed) audio will work, but limits the amount and/or quality of video. Do not use MPEG audio; DVD players sold in the US are not guaranteed to have MPEG audio decoders, and thus any title using MPEG audio can end up silent on some players.

Test your Disc! - If there are any problems in your master you, the copies you duplicate will have those problems as well. I strongly recommend testing in at least 3 different set-top DVD players if at all possible.

If you wish to sell copies on VHS as well, you will need to create a second master to be used for VHS sales. The best way to handle this is to make a second DVD master and send it to a duplication facility. This second DVD master must be organized so that when it is played via the Play button in a DVD player, the following is shown without need for further action or button presses:

Start - When placed in a DVD player, the title should start playing immediately. If you have trouble making the DVD do that, then an acceptable alternative is to have a menu with a single "Play" button.

15 seconds of black at the beginning is required to ensure that the start of the video isn't cut off by the leader.

The Entire video content from start to end follows. If there are extras that should be included in the VHS tape, they need to play automatically.

Blue screen for at least 5 minutes. If possible use a menu with no buttons so that the blue screen holds forever.

Make sure to label the disc very clearly as "VHS Master" so it is not confused with the master for DVD sales. Follow these instructions and you should have no problems with your DVD Master.

How to Prepare a Master for DVD sales.