[ARSCLIST] On site CD duplication

[Susan Balsam <bkarchives@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I'm putting together a feasibility study for an organization that wants 
to do on-site CD duplication at seminars in Europe that are a main 
speaker plus audience participation. In past years, they have offered 
only audio cassettes on site. Has anyone had experience making this 
transition? I could use some advice.

The existing digital recording setup is a line out from the PA mixer to 
a Compaq laptop w/external audio interface, using SoundForge for 16 bit 
/ 44.1 kHz WAVs direct to external HD. There are also 3 older model CD 
burners available (brand unknown), but I am thinking that interrupting 
that process to burn CDs for masters may not be the way to go.

I'm wondering about running another line out from the board to a 2nd 
laptop dedicated to making masters for the duplicating team (a Mac 
iBook G4 is available). Can anyone recommend a good external audio 
interface for the G4? Cost and portability are factors, as this system 
would be carried over from the states. So far the MBox w/ProTools LE 
looks good. I want to keep it very simple.

Questions:
--Can the sound files be saved while the live recording continues or 
will the operator have to wait for a break?
--Can ProTools be set up to automatically save a sound file, say every 
30-35 mins, open a new one and continue recording?
--Will burning a master (through the USB port to an external CD burner) 
affect the live recording?
--What is the best format for European players? With ProTools can I 
record directly to other formats besides WAV, such as AIFF? There won't 
be time to convert files and I would like the smallest possible since 
it is only spoken word.  I understand many players will not read MP3s.

The other option I am looking into is to record directly to a 
standalone CD recorder in the rack. My concern there is in missing 
pieces of the live recording.  Any recommendations on a direct-to-CD 
system where there is no lost time? Do dual systems exist, where, for 
example, after 80 mins. the recording switches to a 2nd tray and the 
first tray can then be finished separately?

Finally, any recommendations for duplicating equipment would also be 
appreciated.

Thanks for your help and advice.
--Susan