Last Update: 08/31/2011
There are thousands of reasons why anyone would want a custom disc label. Whether its for the photos of a wedding, the top of a self recorded album, a home movie DVD, or just a mix CD, we all would like professional looking labels. LightScribe technology fulfills this desire by offering no hassle custom iridescent disc labels with professional looking results. There are numerous external LightScribe drives available (disc burners with Lightscribe that are Apple compatible), some will deliver professional results, some economical, and others unfortunately not so well. That being said, it is still a viable format for any disc cover project. With a better quality Lightscribe external burner for mac, your receive better quality burner mechanisms (resulting in faster burn times and more precision).
LG GP08LU11 Super Multi USB DriveLacie 22x D2 DVD± CD External Drive
Slim Portability - Affordable Overall PriceGreat Looking Results and Fast and Burns
Unlike simply printing onto CDs, or press and stick methods; LightScribe delivers professional long lasting results and requires no ink or pressing. Using specially coated discs (CD -r -rw, DVD +/-), LightScribe technology utilizes laser engraving in order to etch a permanent grayscale image upon the upper side of each disc. Although this image is not in color (color discs are available in many varieties), the detail/precision and ease of LightScribe is unparalleled. The software platforms are both simple and useful, primarily using drag-and-drop method, that nearly anyone will find easy to use.
The Design Center contains hundred of ideas for label projects. Whatever your interest (photos, music, movies, media, apps), they most likely have something to suit your it. Whether you're intentions are consumer or business related, LightScribe are one of the best answers for custom disc labels.
Unfortunately, the technology is limited to labeling only specifically coated discs. However, since its introduction various companies have introduced alternatives for maximum label customization. As the drives improved, the capabilities extended; first allowing the addition of 5 color choices, and later support for extra DVD formats. Depending on the device, the design of the mechanism now supports burning data to any disc format (CD, DVD, dual layer, etc). Again, it may be limited to engraving specific discs, but LightScribe still provides to easiest and most professional results without the hassle of toner and ink on the marker.