A data distribution system and method suitably performing various processing such as suitable distribution of data, control of copying, conversion of signals, charging, and distribution of profits, comprising a reproducing apparatus for reproducing content data to be distributed from a mounted recording medium, a recording apparatus for recording reproduced content data on a mounted recording medium, an examining means for examining types of content data recorded on the recording medium, the recording medium mounted in the reproducing apparatus, the reproducing apparatus, a recording medium mounted in the recording apparatus and the recording apparatus, and a controlling means for controlling a transfer of the content data from the recording medium mounted in the reproducing apparatus to the recording medium mounted in the recording apparatus based on results of the examination.