Printing directly on CDs

Subject: Printing directly on CDs
From: Jerry Rasmussen
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 11:42 AM

After many false starts, dead ends and infuriating failures, I finally have software I can use to make good quality CDs. The next step is to either purchase a printer that prints labels on CDs or pay the money to have it done. I've been looking at an Epson Stylus PhotoR220 Printer which I can buy at Circuit City for $99.99. I've read the reviews from buyers on the web site and they range from wonderful to " a piece of garbage." One of the common warnings is that it's very difficult to install (a warning for someone with six fingers on each hand.) Another is that the ink cartridges are very expensive(There are 6.. each for a different color.) I know there are Catters who do this kind of thing... what kind of printer do you use?, or do you find it more economical to put it out to a company. (Any suggestions to a company who will burn CDs and labels at a reasonable price would be appreciated, too.)

Does anyone use the Epson Stylus Photo R220?

Any advice will be greatly appreciated..

Jerry

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: dick greenhaus
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 11:51 AM

Epson R220 works fine--as long as you're doing one CD at a time. Ink can be expensive if you insist on designs that apply large areas of color to the CD; on the other hand, you only need to replace the color cartridge that's been exhausted, so if you use a lot of, say, blue you don't have to waste the remaining red and yellow ink when you replace the cartridge.

I've found that aftermarket ink cartridges work fine, and are a helluva lot cheaper. On t'other hand, you have to buy discs that will permit ink-jet printing, which cost a bit more than the usual non-printable ones. And your printed discs won't be water-resistant, which may be a problem if you tend to spill coffee on them.

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: Jerry Rasmussen
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 11:59 AM

Thanks, Dick... Would it be a good idea to put a warning sticker on the CD saying "Don't leave in the vicinity of coffee cups?" What is an "after-market" ink cartidge?

Jerry

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: Brakn
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 12:05 PM

I have a Epson Stylus Photo R200 and it seems to work fine. No problems as yet.

Re waterproofing........ Unless you would use a cd for a beer mat I don't know how it would ever get wet!

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: IanC
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 12:06 PM

You can buy specially made clear plastic sheets to cover the printed CD once you have printed it. Not too expensive and makes them effectively waterproof.

:-)

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 12:13 PM

I'm using one of these to good effect, nothing fancy bit cheap enough and it does all I want to do.
Giok

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: Bert
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 12:21 PM

Daughter Rachael had an R200 and just loved it. Recently she upgraded to an R300 with a continuous ink system which she likes even more. I think she paid just over $200 on Ebay.

It is a bit cranky at times and you have to reboot the computer now and then. I suspect that there are some bugs in the driver software. In fact the first time she installed the driver the computer wouldn't reboot with the printer connected (USB port), we had to unplug it and reboot the computer and THEN plug the printer in again. But disconnecting the printer allowed it to reboot and we haven't noticed that problem since

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: JohnInKansas
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 12:25 PM

A "problem" commonly encountered with Epson hardware, printers and scanners, is that Epson simply declines to go through the hoops to have their stuff registered as "Windows Compatible."

People often get the warning during installation that "this device is not certified compatible" - or something to that effect - and try to do something clever, instead of just saying "shut up and install it." If they're "clever" enough they get a messed up installation that requires backing out, removal, and a clean "start over from scratch."

Naturally enough, the ones who can't figure out how to "just do it," or who try to take shortcuts when they've messed it up, are the whiners who complain about how hard it is to get their Epson set up.

Based only on my limited experience, of course, I've not found an Epson device that didn't install and set up pretty cleanly, even if Windows whines about the drivers not being all prettied up with the right Micro-Mouse logos. I don't have any specific info about your particular printer model, but generally I've found Epson stuff at least as good as the rest of the stuff on the market.

A couple of the cheapest Epson inkjets have been reported (by apparently reliable people) as suffering from nozzle clogging if they're left idle for very long, but it appears to be only an isolated couple of models. Clearing a clog uses a very large percentage of the ink in a set of those itty-bitty cartridges, so it's a really noxious thing - and expensive - if it does happen more than a few times.

John

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: JudyB
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 01:23 PM

We use an Epson R800 for printing Charley's CDs - it costs a bit more (around $400) and uses ink that's supposed to be more water and fade resistant - not that I'd expect a problem with normal ink in normal circumstances. If all we were doing was printing CDs, I'd have gone for something less fancy. It's hooked up to Charley's Mac, so Windows compatibility isn't an issue.

I just bought an R320 to use with my office computer (only $110 with the rebate and few extra features I thought would be useful for how we'll use it); that one is installed on my WinXP computer with no problems. Haven't tried printing CDs with it.

We've had primarily Epson printers over the years and have generally been happy with them. Several reviewers have recommended always printing in highest quality mode on the photo printers like the R series - and we'd agree; the extra ink we use doing that is minimal compared to what we'd use to clean the printheads - and once they start clogging, it's really hard to ever print as well.

Also, as I've mentioned elsewhere, we had bad luck with Memorex printable CDs - the printing part worked fine, but the quality of the music burned onto them was not always good. Unfortunately they seem to be the easiest to find in the shops, at least around here. We buy our CDs over the internet, and currently use Maxell printable CDs.

Charley and I have been very happy with the control we have over the process at every step along the way, and Charley likes the ability to print his CDs 10 at a time - so if he improves a song, or realizes it works better with concertina than banjo or whatever, he can put the newer version on subsequent CDs.

Good luck with the process, and we'll be happy to answer any questions we can.

JudyB

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: GUEST,pattyClink
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 02:33 PM

I'm using a Lightscribe device, it's a CD/DVD drive that actually engraves a pattern on the reverse side of your CD. Lovely embossed effect on silvery surface. You have to buy special disks (not very expensive) but of course there are NO ink or paper costs or mess.   

If you buy one, get a combo deal that has good software (not the simplistic 'crippled' kind mine came with) so you can list all your album details and import graphics.

I don't know what kind of volume you are talking about, perhaps lightscribing would be unworkable at that volume, but then again, quality graphics on a disc printer isn't exactly speedy.

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: DMcG
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 05:17 PM

I have an R200 which is fine, but I was told this week that Epson have stopped producing the ink cartridges. Not that I buy own-brand except in an emergency, but lack of ink suppliers was what forced me to abandon my last printer and I guess that if Epson has really stopped manufacturing them then third parties will stop in a year or so.

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: Jerry Rasmussen
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 08:38 PM

"Glad" for the info, DM. If I get a couple of years out of it, I'll consider it well worth the $90 investment. I went to get new blades for my Norelco electric razor and discovered that they are no longer making them. Goes with the territory. Seems like I don't get much more than 3 or 4 years out of a printer, anyway.

I'm waiting to find out where I can get third party cartridges. BJ's (in the USA) sell them at a reduced price so perhaps there isn't that much of a savings. But, I'd like to check it out.

Jerry

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: JudyB
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 09:17 PM

I would recommend buying one set of the third-party cartridges and trying them out before you stock up, unless there are folks who've tried them for printing CDs. I haven't, so can't comment on that. However, one of the other things we print are high-quality "photos" of artwork - and we were quite surprised at how much better they looked on "genuine Epson paper" - well worth the extra money for us once we did a test.

If all we did was print CDs, I'd probably try the less-expensive ink cartridges - but after our tests with the paper, I wouldn't buy a 4-year supply until I was sure I liked how they worked. :)

And I would make sure I have a safe place to put them while they dry (we insert them directly into the jewel case when they come out of the printer - harder for cats to walk on them there) - they aren't that wet, but they do recommend waiting 24 hours before playing them.

JudyB

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: JohnInKansas
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 09:41 PM

Since the thread drift to printing on other media has been sort of introduced (at least I can pretend so) it may be of interest that I have tried out the "waterproof" media that was discussed in a long-lost thread.

The only convenient source I've found is Amazon.com, but the "paper" sold as "Adventure Paper" truly is waterproof when printed with any common inkjet printer, provided that the ink is allowed to thoroughly dry before you expose it to the elements. It's not cheap, but isn't too outrageous in letter or "B" size. Prices are similar to small quantity packs of photo papers at retail stores in my area.

It handles just like an ordinary good quality paper, and can be folded like paper. It is pretty resistant to tearing, and has a "bright white" finish, so it makes good clean prints - not quite photo quality, of course, but "good paper" quality.

It can't be used in your laser printer since it's a plastic base not intended for the fuser temp in lasers. (It may melt.) And it should be noted that even though it's waterproof many inks will still fade fairly rapidly if exposed to direct sunlight.

Intended for maps, and "patented" by National Geographic, I think; but it makes very nice small posters if a bit of drizzle is to be expected.

Now back to our feature presentation ...

John

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: wilbyhillbilly
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 03:31 AM

I upgraded to an Epson R200 about 6 months ago and I must say that for me its brilliant.

I've designed my own "label" for the work I do for other people, (with the software that came with it) and printing direct to CD is far better than paper labels IMHO.

I also found a company that does compatible ink cartridges at half the price and so far have refilled various colours without any problems.

Personally I highly recommend the R200.

Jerry, depending on the quantity you need done, I may be able to help. I can burn and print direct and am quite happy to do them at cost plus postage and leave it to you if you wish to make a small donation to the Mudcat fund.

I have mentioned this several times on the 'cat and some catters have responded. Its my way of helping to keep the 'cat alive.

Anyway the offer is there, if and when you decide just PM me.


whb

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: Jerry Rasmussen
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 08:51 AM

Thaks for the generous offer willbyhillbilly. Thanks to the response to this thread, I went out and bought an Epson 220 yesterday for $89.99 at BJ's. This being the folk community, I'm not surprised at the generosity of so many people. I've talked to my friends Sandy & Caroline Paton, and they offered to help to. I decided to set up for myself because I have three CDs I want to put out... Handful Of Songs, which has never been on CD and is ready to go, thanks to Dennis Cook's remastering, Back When I Was Young, which I did form old tapes of songs I did on my own and with friends, and the Gospel Messengers CD. I also have several projects for home-producing CDs just for my won enjoyment and that of friends, so it made sense to have everything set up here at home.

But, I really appreciate the offer Willby..

I just finished mastering the Gospel Messengers CD and am excited about completing the project. I think I have everything in hand that I need.

And thanks to everyone who has contributed to this thread.

One other question. I've heard about the expense of the ink (and will PM a couple of you to get sources for reduced cost cartridges.)
I already have a printer that I'm happy with (a Cannon whose ink cartridges are very reasonable in price.) I'm wondering whether I should set up the Epson as a second printer and just use it for CDs printing, or just replace my Cannon and pay whatever the difference in cost is for the cartridges. Any thoughts on that one? I do a fair amount of every-day printing and my wife likes to use the printer for printing photos. Are my expenses likely to be dramatically higher with the Epson?

Just wondering..

Thanks again to everyone..

Jerry

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: JudyB
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 08:58 AM

I'd keep them both - as I mentioned above, you probably want to always print in Best Quality Photo on the Epson - which will be best for photos and your CDs but a waste of ink for everyday printing.

And I'd suggest that your wife print a couple of photos on both printers and compare them - my guess is that they'll both look good separately but that she'll like the look of one or the other more when she sees them side by side - or maybe one will be better for people and the other for landscapes.

Have fun!
JudyB

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: nutty
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 09:09 AM

Whichever choice you make Printer or Lightscribe remember that the CD'S that allow this are much more expensive. This is a factor which needs to be taken into consideration when comparing prices of home produced against commercial production.

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: Amos
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 10:12 AM

I use the R800 and am generally happy with it, especially the results. The cartridges are a bit pricey, about $16 here, but otherwise it is great for one-at-a-time printing.

A

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: GUEST,bbc at work
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 11:15 AM

Wow, Jerry! I'd like all 3 of those cds. Make sure you let us know when & how they are available.

Barbara

Subject: RE: Printing directly on CDs
From: JudyB
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 01:11 PM

In the US, spindles of 100 Maxell printable CDs are around $37; individual CDs with slim jewel case are around 60 cents each (that's Mac/PCConnection - I'd expect similar prices from the other online computer supply places). Generic non-printable CDs at Staples (office supply place that's omnipresent in our part of the US) are $35 for a spindle of 100 (and, to be fair, the special of the week is $18 for 100 after a rebate ($27/100 before)).

By one perspective, the printable ones are at least twice as much - and harder to find and you'll probably have to pay shipping. And the ink costs a fair amount. I'm thinking we figured it was costing us around $3/CD (not counting the initial cost of the printer and upgrading my computer so it could handle music editing software and my collection of mics and stuff like that).

And it takes about 5 minutes each to burn, print, fold the little booklet (we do get the booklet and CD case inserts printed professionally a hundred at a time), take apart the case to put the insert in the back, stick in the CD, close the cover - and then it's time to take the next CD out of the burner and put it in the printer and set up the next case while it's printing and so on. There's a reason we only do 10 or 20 at a time. And it's a good thing Charley's fingers are stronger than mine.

But the label won't ever get stuck in your car CD player on a hot day, as can happen with the adhesive types.

And you can buy most of the supplies as you need them - while you'd be paying upfront to have a professional place print them by the hundreds or thousands. (Not to mention needing a place to store them.) And if you discover a typo once all 2500 are printed - I think you're out of luck.

There are places (including folks here who have posted on similar threads) who are willing to do small runs - sort of a middle ground between what we do for Charley's CDs and what his group does - which is the professional sound engineer/1000-CD run approach.

Lots of factors to consider - and a lot more choices than there were even a few years ago. We paid a fair amount for our little home studio - and I hate to think what it would have cost 10 years ago!

JudyB