[Adywebb]

Looking to buy a new DVD-RW with dual layer capability, any suggestions as to best make/model, especially in relation to reliability/media compatibility/firmware upgrades?

Mates tell me Plextor are good, but expensive - so I've highlighted these 3 as possibilities, all around the £40-50 mark:

NEC 3520A
Pioneer 109
LG 4163B

Any other suggestions?

Also I see its cheaper to go for OEM versions rather than full retail boxed - is there any drawback to this?

Cheers, Ady

[muckshifter]

If you can afford it, get the Plextor.

However, if you want to save £20 then nuffin wrong with the Pioneer or Light-On ... I use Lite-On, but don't let my choice swade you.

... OEM, you don't get a fancy box and usually NO software ... but they are supported as if it were a retail boxed drive.

[Me__2001]

retail drives usually come with some sort of dvd playing software and nero

[Adywebb]

I don't need any software, so OEM will do for me!

Mucks - are you saying Plextor are worth the extra money? - wasn't intending to spend over 50 quid if possible.

[muckshifter]

Plextor = Real reliability, robustness, durability, compatability ...

Oh, and ... 2 Years On-site Collect and Return with Manufacturer

Yep, worth a couple of bob extra.

[KGB-911]

i got a samsung that is + and - for £48 (dabs)

[Adywebb]

Originally Posted by muckshifter

Plextor = Real reliability, robustness, durability, compatability ...

Oh, and ... 2 Years On-site Collect and Return with Manufacturer

Yep, worth a couple of bob extra.

Just been lookin Plextor up - pretty impressed! - their website is really clear and easy to navigate for firmware downloads and the recommended media is very comprehensive - so no compatability issues likely there.

I can get their latest PX-716A for around £75, a bit more than i wanted to pay, but unless bods can give me good reasons not to, it looks like the one for me

Any suggestions of good places to get it also welcome!