Different companies have different pricing regarding CD replication. Oasis in the US has what I think is the best pricing. Suffice it to say that shrink-wrapped bar coded clouore graphics and liner sleeve cost about $2000 per 1000. That is exclusive of recording costs and mastering. Many mastering places compress the shit out of music and the expenditure of three hundred bucks to master it yourself just drops the cost of having to have a company do it.

I'd opted for the plastic wrap on the CD because it adds a bit more 'structural integrity' when it's being handled by the postal systems, customs.

There is absolutely no question that a competent engineer and a producer can be a tremendous help. However, come the end of the day it's "your" name on the CD and your own call as to what constitutes good. I know from bitter experience that relinquishing control can be a bad thing to do.

Reminds me of the fellow who went to the unemployment office and said he was outta work and needed a job. He said, I'm the boss." The unemployment counsellor asked him to describe his job. He said, "I'm the bos. I go down into the sewer with a bucket, fill the bucket with effluence and pass it to the next guy who takes it to the truck." The counsellor laughed and said, "This makes you the boss?" Fellow said, "Yes indeed. I don't take shit from no one!"