# 5 × CD

> music release comprised of five compact discs

**Wikidata**: [Q100149475](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q100149475)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/5-cd

## Summary
5 × CD is a music release format consisting of five compact discs (CDs), introduced in 1979 as part of the digital optical disc data storage format. It is part of a series of multi-unit audio release formats, including 4 × CD and 6 × CD.

## Key Facts
- Part of the compact disc (CD) data storage format, which debuted in 1979.
- Comprises five individual CDs labeled CD1 through CD5.
- Follows the 4 × CD format and precedes the 6 × CD format.
- Classified as a multi-unit audio release format and a subclass of box sets and compact discs.
- Commonly abbreviated as "5XCD" or "5 x CD."

## FAQs
### Q: What is a 5 × CD release?
A: A 5 × CD release is a music album packaged in a box containing five compact discs, each labeled CD1 through CD5. It is a multi-unit audio release format used for distributing extensive music collections.

### Q: How does a 5 × CD release differ from a standard CD?
A: A standard CD holds a single album, while a 5 × CD release is a box set containing five CDs, typically used for compiling multiple albums, live recordings, or extensive collections.

### Q: What comes before and after a 5 × CD release?
A: The 5 × CD format follows the 4 × CD release and precedes the 6 × CD release in terms of the number of discs in the set.

## Why It Matters
The 5 × CD format was developed as part of the compact disc (CD) storage system, which revolutionized music distribution by offering a high-capacity, digital alternative to vinyl records. Multi-unit releases like 5 × CD allow artists and record labels to package extensive catalogs, live performances, or compilation albums in a single boxed set. This format became particularly popular in the 1990s and early 2000s, enabling fans to collect and enjoy large bodies of work in a convenient, durable package. While digital streaming has reduced the need for physical multi-disc releases, the 5 × CD format remains a notable example of how technology has shaped music consumption and preservation.

## Notable For
- Being part of a series of multi-unit CD releases, including 4 × CD and 6 × CD.
- Allowing the distribution of extensive music collections in a single boxed set.
- Reflecting the evolution of music packaging from single-disc albums to multi-disc box sets.
- Supporting the preservation of live performances, compilations, and artist catalogs.

## Body
### Overview
The 5 × CD format is a music release consisting of five compact discs, each labeled sequentially from CD1 to CD5. It is part of a broader category of multi-unit audio release formats, which include variations with four or six discs.

### Classification
- **Instance of**: Multi-unit audio release format.
- **Subclass of**: Box set and compact disc.

### Relationships
- **Follows**: 4 × CD.
- **Followed by**: 6 × CD.

### Technical Details
- **Components**: Five individual CDs.
- **Labeling**: Each disc is labeled CD1 through CD5.

## Schema Markup
```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "5 × CD",
  "description": "A music release format consisting of five compact discs.",
  "sameAs": ["https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q123456789"],
  "additionalType": "MultiUnitAudioReleaseFormat"
}