DVD Production Software

[Chris Van Patten]

Hey all,

When it comes to web distribution I'm relatively experienced. My problem lies in distribution for DVD.

I've been reading lots of reviews for various DVD creation and authoring programs. Currently, I'm using DVD Architect Studio and really liking it, however I'm worried that the disc it puts out might have CSS and other DRMs on it, and considering I'm preparing a master for duplication this cannot happen.

I was mainly looking at Encore DVD 2.0, and I'm eligible for Academic Pricing which is a huge plus, however other than Adobe's and Sony's offerings is there anything I'm missing?

Thanks,
Chris

[Rob Lohman]

DVD has no DRM other than regional encoding and Content Scrambling System (CSS).

It is actually the other way around. When you go the "professional" route of
duplication and pressing this can be added (if you buy a CSS license).

Although some consumer/prosumer software has the ability to flag the DVD for
CSS this is only an indication that this still needs to happen. Which DVD burning
software does *not* do (it can't, there is a technical barrier unless you bought
a mastering burner, you would still need a CSS license though).

Region encoding in theory would be easier to add but I don't think I've seen
any software offer that yet. Most "indies" want to be able to send the disc
to anyone, regardless of what region they are in.

So if you stick with home burning the discs you burn can't have CSS encryption
or regional encoding. If you have the discs mastered / pressed / replicated then
you can, if you pay for the license.

DVD has no other protections, like a DRM system for example.

[Chris Van Patten]

Thanks, great info!

I am one of the "indies"... no CSS, region 0/no region, the whole deal.

Good to know,
Chris