Issuing an ISRC code is much simpler than you may think; if your based in the UK become a member of the PPL as a recording company and you will be given a membership number, this then allows you to request your ISRC registrant code. Its free to become a member, but takes about three weeks for confirmation, so if your planning your first release make sure you join with plenty of time to spare! Follow the link to become a member of the PPL
After you become a member of the PPL you are able to use CATCO to provide information about your new release data which will be stored in the sound recording database. You will also be able to apply for an MCPS (Music Copyright Protection Society) licence.
How is it Coded?
ISRC is encoded at the mastering stage as a final step before burning the master CD. Specific software which is capable of inserting ISRC codes is required, but it is a simple process. For PC users, Gear Pro or Wavelab can insert ISRC codes, as well as automatically generate them after you enter your country and registrant code. For Mac users, Roxio Jam is perfectly suitable.
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Country Code
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Registrant Code
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Year
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Designation Code
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X X
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X X X
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X X
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X X X X X
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Country Code
The country code for the United Kingdom is GB. For other country codes please visit the National ISRC Agencies.
Registrant Code
Your unique 3-digit registrant code is given to you by the PPL after registration.
Year
Displayed as two digits, this indicates the year of the release for a particular recording.
Designation Code
This five digit number is designated to the recording by you. The first recording you release in any year will be 00001, then 00002 and so on…
