by cfitz on Wed Dec 18, 2002 12:51 am
The first thing you need to do is set the properties for your compilation and all the tracks on it. You can set the disc properties by selecting "File"->"Compilation Info", choosing the Audio CD tab, and filling in all the data fields you wish to use. You can set the track properties manually by right-clicking each track in the "Audio" compilation window, selecting "Properties", then choosing the "Track Properties" tab and filling in the Title and Artist fields.
This can be a lot of work, so Nero provides a database mechanism to automate some of the process. Open "File"->"Preferences", and choose the "Database" tab. Make sure the "Read Server (http):" box under the "User Internet CD database" heading is checked, as well as the three "Open the database during..." checkboxes at the bottom of the page. This will make Nero pop up a window every time you add an audio track, and give you the choice of getting the CD and track information from the Internet rather than having to look it up and type it in yourself. You can also set up local copies of your own databases through the "Extras"->"Create a New User Database..." menu option.
Okay, now all the raw data is in place, so it is time to print the cover art. Select "File"->"Print CD Cover", or press the fourth button from the left in the button bar under the Nero menus - the button that somewhat resembles a sheet of white paper with a horizontal blue pen 3/4 up the page. This will open the Nero Cover Designer program, with the CD information pre-populated. Choose one of the pre-made templates, make your own, or modify one of the existing ones, then print your booklet, inlay, and disc label as desired.
It is a lot of tedium to get this all set up properly in the first place, but once you have things working to your satisfaction it will save you a good deal of time, particularly if you burn a lot of audio discs.
cfitz
Ian, should this be moved to the Ahead forum?