How to create a .CDI Audio Image
This blog demonstrates how to make a perfect copy of an audio CD using Padus Disc Juggler, which will allow you to submit a .CDI image file to webs4cd.co.uk
The normal method for submitting audio discs (and still preferred) is to post a physical master to us, but when time is of the essence, it is possible to make a copy of your audio CD using Padus and send us a .CDI image which will retain track spacing, cd text, isrc codes and in good audio re-productive quality. To follow this tutorial, you will need to purchase or download an evaluation of Padus Disc Juggler which can be located here.
Things you will need
- Your own audio CD ready to copy
- Padus Disc Juggler 6 Installed & Ready
- Blank CD-R for testing
- WinZIP or Similar File Utility
Steps to Create a .CDI Image Copy of your audio CD
- Start Disc Juggler software and go to File > New
- From the menu which appears, choose 'Create disc images' as shown in the image below
Padus Disc Juggler Step 1
Configure Basic Settings
Once you have clicked 'Create disc images' as shown in the previous image, you will see a screen like the one below. For this step, you must follow these instructions
- Change the filename to be your audio title or job number e.g 12345.cdi
- If necessary, adjust the location the file is saved to (simply click the icon shown to the left of the filename e.g D:\NameYourProjectHere.cdi
- If you have more than one drive in your computer, ensure you select the correct drive which has audio disc inserted
Setting up Padus Disc Juggler
Configure Advanced Settings
Now, click on the advanced tab and make sure the following are all ticked
- Tick 'Scan gaps/indexes'
- Tick 'ISRC & UPC'
- Tick 'CD Text'
Unless you know better, please leave the remainder of the settings un-changed and click the 'Start' button. (NOTE: Ensure all other programs are closed before running the disc copy process)
Padus Disc Juggler .CDI Settings
Proceed with .CDI Image Creation
Once you click 'Start' the disc is scanned for defects and the image extraction utility begins to run. Do not interrupt this process and ensure all other programs are closed to ensure a clean copy is taken. Once the job has finished, Disc Juggler will output a report on screen to inform you how many tracks were indexed and the track spacing etc.
Example of DJ Screen after Successful Copy
Disc Juggler Successful Image Copy
Note: If you are using the evaluation version, there is a maximum copy limit of 700mb. If your audio is in excess of ts limit, you will need to purchase a copy of Disc Juggler in order to proceed.
Testing Disc Image
It is wise to burn the image back to a blank CD-R in order to verify the image copy was successful. We advise you do this before submitting your master to us. Read 'Burning .CDI Image Blog' for instructions
