Re-recording
The primary objective of copying is the faithful transfer - without any kind of improvement - of an audio recording from its original carrier to a currently used type of carrier and/or format.
The Swiss National Sound Archives can count on three complete copying studios equipped with all the devices necessary to be able to transfer from every type of audio carrier, of any period and in any state.
Three qualified technicians do every single copying job in meticulous compliance with the "Principles of Copying and Restoration" published on this website. To optimize the operations, the FN uses automated systems for some parts of the work.
The Phonotheque is authorized to make copies of sound recordings preserved in its archives, which are no longer available on the market and are protected by copyright, provided that these copies are intended exclusively for private use.
Calculation base for copying (private use):
For the copy, in MP3 format, of documents belonging to the archives of the Phonotheque, which are no longer commercially available, the rate is calculated based on the following:
1 minute of sound (modulation) = CHF 1.-- (*)
For the copy of an image (for instance the cover of a CD):
1 image = CHF 1.--
For the preparation of a booklet (information on tracks):
1 track = CHF 1.--
To the above calculation basis, you may need to add:
- (*) for the preparation of an audio CD: CHF 10.--
- the material cost of a CD: CHF 2.--
- the shipping costs.
The above rates are inclusive of the copyright fees.
Exception:
If the original audio carrier belongs to a user who does not make a donation, the ordinary rate of CHF 130.--/h is applied.
Indicative calculation of the time necessary for the copying onto CD-R or DVD-R of a single audio carrier in relation to the duration of the recording:
| Type of audio carrier | Multiplication factor |
Average total duration |
Average time required (manpower) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copying of a 78 rpm disc | x 4 | 8 min | 32 min |
| Copying of a 45 rpm disc | x 3 | 8 min | 24 min |
| Copying of a 33 rpm disc or a cassette, without any sub-division of the tracks | x 1.5 | 46 min | 69 min |
| Copying of a 33 rpm disc or a cassette, with sub-division of the tracks | x 2 | 46 min | 92 min |
| Copying of a 6.3 mm, 3.75-30ips tape, without any sub-division of the tracks | +25' | - . - | Depending on the length of the tape |
| Copying of a 6.3 mm, 3.75-30ips tape, with sub-division of the tracks | +45' | - . - | Depending on the length of the tape |
| Copying of a CD | x 0.6 | 60 min | 36 min |
| Copying of a DAT cassette | x 1.3 | - . - | Depending on the length of the tape |
For some types of audio carriers (e.g. cassettes, magnetic tapes, etc.), it is possible to copy a number of physical carriers simultaneously. This allows a considerable reduction of the time necessary for the operation.
