I, like many of you, came back from Anime Weekend Atlanta with a large quantity of cds of creators work. Looking at this pile of cds I thought... wouldn't it be great if these cds could be part of a large amv distro, much like fansub distros collect masters from fansubbers.
So, the idea was set in motion. I asked a few people about it and I search for willing participants. Things seem to be moving along nicely.
So, what is the purpose of this post? Well, essentially I now need 'approval' from a-m-v.org members. Phade is happy with the idea [hence the 'official'ness
], and so are some creators that I've spoken to and now you can have your say. First of all, a little more detail.The distro would probably be set up as follows:
- Creators make a CD or CDs of their videos for use as a master image for duplication. (Creators with only a few videos can make a combined compilation of their works)
- All cds are catalogued on the site, detailing the creator(s), the amvs contained therein, the required system specifications etc. (plus links to the appropriate info on the org)
The distro would probably operate as follows:
- fans would order cds from the site by choosing from the database.
- CDs would be distributed on an SASE basis (the person sends blanks and postage)
- The distro would be non-profit. If somewhere down the line money was required due to wear and tear on hardware then donations would be requested from the creators, but obviously that would be an extreme situation.
This is the basic structure for the distro - further additions/alterations can be discussed below.
Benefits of a distro system:
- Allows amv coverage for people without hosting or unhosted videos
- Centralised cd distribution allows a fan to acquire many cds from one place instead of from individual creators
- Allows publicity of lesser-known or older videos by a well-known creator
- Allows creators to add personal touches to their work for cd distro
Of course, a fan may prefer to select the videos they want instead of getting lots of videos by the same creator, but this distro isn't about the fans it's about the creators and I personally think it would be fairer to the creator if the distro only distributes CDs that the creator has made.
Also, it's easier to just use master images than create individual cds filled with individual videos so would make the distro more efficient.
Possible additions to the service:
- Compilations of amvs by creators who do not have a significant or accessible online presence such as a Kevin Caldwell collection. This goes against the idae that the distro will have creator backing but I think there are benefits to this added service too.
- Compliations made by creators to demonstrate lesser known areas such as Compilation of Japanese MADs (may need multiple volumes
)- Label printing service. Creators could perhaps submit an image to be used as a label. The label would have to be optional and then added to the packaging cost but this can be calculated on the site.
- Free promotional offers. Creators who would like their amvs seen can submit a number of ready-made cds to the distro which can be included as free samples with a regular order.
OK, those are the basics. At present the person most willing to do a US distro is Red Wolf of AWA compilation cd fame (thank you!!). I would be willing to create a european mirror too.
Further details can be arranged and discussed below. So, what does everyone think?
