Important Information
With all of the terminology surrounding the packaging and sales of compact discs it can be very confusing to the consumer. We have provided a comprehensive list of the terms that are used on cd labels to help guide you in your next purchase.
CLEAN - The CD has been modified from the original, and does not include all of the same content contained in the Parental Advisory version. This usually entails removing explicit lyrics and either replacing or removing them completely. However, it does not mean that every objectionable lyric has been removed. The “clean” version of an song is one that you would likely hear on the radio.
DIGIPAK – A different packaging than the standard, hard plastic jewel case. The artwork is a part of the packaging, which is a cardboard material.
DVD-A – DVD Audio. This is a format that reproduces very high quality audio on a DVD. This is not a video medium, although, some of the DVD-A will have short video segments. The DVD-A is mainly used for reproduction of music on DVDs.
ECD – Short for “Enhanced Compact Disc.” The CD is enhanced with multimedia viewable on your PC. When placed in a CD drive your computer will pull this up automatically. In order for the multimedia to work correctly, additional software may be required and compatibility can be an issue.
EP – Short for “Extended Play.” These are CDs which are too long to qualify as singles but too short to qualify as full length albums.
FYC – Short for “For Your Consideration.” These are soundtrack CDs used to help nominate a composer or score for various awards ceremonies. They are only sent to those in the film business and can be hard to find.
MINI – This refers to the size of the CD. The Mini’s are smaller cds than the traditional full sized cd. Often times mini cds are Japanese imports.
OOP – Short for “Out Of Print.” The CD is no longer being manufactured and can be difficult to locate. You would be hard pressed to find these in any retail outlet.
PA – Short for “Parental Advisory.” This CD contains explicit lyrics, which may not be suitable for all people. This is especially designed for keeping children away from lyrics which are objectionable.
Rare - This refers to cds that are not easily found in traditional retail channels. The rare cds are often unique imports, hard to find live performances, misprints, and unique artwork scenarios. The original Lynard Skynard: Street Survivors album is a great example of now rare album.
SACD (Super Audio) – This is a CD recorded with different technology that allows for higher fidelity audio reproductions. This cds have higher clarity than a normal audio production.
SEALED – The CD is still in its original shrinkwrap, unopened & unsealed. In many ways it is essentially new.
SNDTRK / SDTRK / OST – Short for “Original Soundtrack.” This CD is from a film that usually has various artists and songs from that film on it.
S/T – Short for “Self Titled.” An album with the same name as the artist.
VA – Short for “Various Artists.” A compilation CD, you will often see these in soundtracks or albums that group a time frame or particular type of music together.