# 4 × CD

> music release comprised of four compact discs

**Wikidata**: [Q97398040](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q97398040)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/4-cd

## Summary
A **4 × CD** is a music release format consisting of four compact discs. It is a type of multi-unit audio release, often used for extensive albums, compilations, or special editions.

## Key Facts
- **Definition**: A music release comprised of four compact discs.
- **Classification**: Instance of a multi-unit audio release format.
- **Subclass**: Part of the compact disc (CD) format, introduced in 1979.
- **Aliases**: Also known as quadruple CD, 4XCD, 4 x CD, or Disc 4.
- **Relationships**:
  - Follows the **3 × CD** format (three-disc releases).
  - Precedes the **5 × CD** format (five-disc releases).
- **Components**: Typically includes four labeled discs (CD1, CD2, CD3, CD4).
- **Facet**: Considered a type of **quadruple album** (a four-disc album release).

## FAQs
### Q: What is a 4 × CD?
A: A **4 × CD** is a music release that contains four compact discs, often used for large albums, box sets, or special editions.

### Q: How does a 4 × CD differ from a 3 × CD or 5 × CD?
A: A **4 × CD** has four discs, while a **3 × CD** has three and a **5 × CD** has five. It is a middle ground for extensive but not overly large releases.

### Q: What are some common uses for a 4 × CD?
A: They are often used for deluxe editions, live concert recordings, compilations, or reissues with bonus material.

### Q: Is a 4 × CD the same as a quadruple album?
A: Yes, a **4 × CD** is a type of **quadruple album**, meaning it consists of four discs as part of a single release.

### Q: When was the compact disc format introduced?
A: The compact disc (CD) format was introduced in **1979**.

## Why It Matters
The **4 × CD** format plays a significant role in the music industry by allowing artists and labels to release extensive content in a structured, multi-disc format. It bridges the gap between smaller releases (like single or double albums) and larger box sets, providing a balance between depth and manageability. This format is particularly valuable for live recordings, anniversary editions, and compilations where additional tracks, alternate takes, or bonus material justify multiple discs. By offering more content than a standard album, the **4 × CD** enhances the listener’s experience while maintaining a collectible and marketable product.

## Notable For
- **Extensive Content**: Allows for more music than a standard single or double album.
- **Special Editions**: Commonly used for deluxe or anniversary releases.
- **Flexibility**: Can include live recordings, bonus tracks, or alternate versions.
- **Collectibility**: Often sought after by fans for exclusive or rare material.
- **Industry Standard**: Recognized as a standard multi-disc format in music releases.

## Body
### **Definition and Structure**
A **4 × CD** is a music release format consisting of four compact discs. Each disc is typically labeled sequentially (CD1, CD2, CD3, CD4) and may contain distinct content, such as different albums, live performances, or bonus material.

### **Relationship to Other Formats**
- **Preceded by**: **3 × CD** (three-disc releases).
- **Followed by**: **5 × CD** (five-disc releases).
- **Facet of**: **Quadruple album**, a broader category for four-disc releases.

### **Aliases and Terminology**
The format is also referred to as:
- Quadruple CD
- 4XCD
- 4 x CD
- Disc 4

### **Technical Context**
- **Compact Disc (CD)**: Introduced in **1979**, the CD is a digital optical disc storage format.
- **Multi-Unit Audio Release**: The **4 × CD** is classified as a multi-unit format, meaning it consists of multiple discs sold as a single product.

### **Use Cases**
- **Deluxe Editions**: Enhanced versions of albums with additional tracks.
- **Live Recordings**: Concert performances spread across multiple discs.
- **Compilations**: Collections of songs, often themed or artist-specific.
- **Reissues**: Remastered or expanded versions of classic albums.

## Schema Markup
```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "4 × CD",
  "description": "A music release comprised of four compact discs.",
  "sameAs": ["https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q[Wikidata_ID]"],
  "additionalType": "MultiUnitAudioRelease"
}