What Is an Enhanced CD?

Enhanced CDs combine conventional audio content with additional computer-accessible material. They were commonly used for music releases with multimedia extras.

Enhanced CD structure

An Enhanced CD can contain both audio tracks and computer data, so extracting only the music can omit part of the original release.

Audio extraction

Identify the audio and data components before extraction and document the relationship between them.

Data extraction

Extract audio accurately and preserve the data component with its original directory structure or a suitable disc image.

Preserving extras

Metadata should distinguish the music tracks from the multimedia content.

Quality control

Verify both parts of the disc independently.

Reference guidance: This article is informed by optical-media preservation guidance from the U.S. National Archives and the Library of Congress Recommended Formats Statement. Where appropriate, the article distinguishes preservation guidance from practical extraction procedures.