recently read where the writer suggested cd longevity is about 2 years before deterioration sets in. is there any truth to this? i was under the impression cds have a considerable long life.
I have CDRs much older than 2 years and they still read fine. I think CD longevity relies mainly on two things. First and most obvious, the quality of the media. Second, how they are stored. If they are not in a case and stacked on top of each other and exposed to moderate to high heat and/or sunlight, then the deterioration process will be very quick. But if they are kept in a protective plastic case, or paper sleeves, and kept at a cool room temperature and out of direct sunlight, then they should last reliably for at least a decade.
