Making and then selling CDs?

My dad has recently finished recording his album and has come across a few choices he has to make and was wondering which path to choose.

Firstly, he needs to get many CD’s made (probably around 300) and has come across replication and duplication and is wondering whether the difference in quality between them is that great? Also – are there any places in the UK people would recommend for this service?

Secondly, he was considering getting a barcode… Is this really necessary if he won’t be trying to sell it in shops. They will mainly be sold at shows and he is hopefully looking for some radio play.

Thanks!