Recording companies looking to wring more profits out of music sales are hoping to sell retailers on a new hybrid disc. On one side is standard CD audio; on the other, the enhanced sound, video and other media capabilities of a DVD.
The DualDisc was the focus of a rare united presentation by recording companies at gathering of music retailers this week. It comes at a time when some in the music industry are speculating whether music fans now devalue the 20-year-old CD in the face of the varied content available on DVDs.
Recording companies say the higher quality sound and multimedia data they can put on a DualDisc will produce better value for music fans.
While many labels have experimented with CD releases that included companion DVDs with concert footage, videos or other media, music executives tout the DualDisc as a more convenient and streamlined way to deliver both on a single disc that plays on standard CD and DVD players.
Several music labels tested the DualDiscs in two U.S. cities earlier this year. The labels say the DualDisc will be compatible with most devices, including game consoles and personal computers.
Several releases are planned nationwide beginning in October, including from David Bowie, Miles Davis, A Simple Plan, The Donnas and Nine Inch Nails. Executives wouldn't discuss pricing.