2 DVD Writers that compliment each other

[LT9000]

I am going to install 2 new DVD writers on my PC.

I use DVD-R for SL. I usually buy Verbatim or Sony media for SL, and Verbatim +R for DL.

The main purpose will be to back up my rather large DVD collection, some of which are scratched up rentals bought used. I want the copies to have high compatability for playback on stand alone DVD players.

What 2 writers would best compliment each other for this task? (One perhaps being strong where the other is weak.)

[CrayonEater]

I have the NEC ND-3550a, which burns everything except Ritek G05. Also have the LG-4163B. Double-layer capability blew out after about a dozen burns, making it a single-layer. It does have DVD-RAM capability though and will burn all single-layer media (and I've used at least a dozen different types!)

The Benq 165x drives also apparently take most or kind of media, according to the comments here on the DVD Writers section.

[samijubal]

NECs burn perfect every time, but are riplocked, so they read retail discs slow. The Pioneer 111 isn't riplocked, good read speed on retail discs, also reads RAM.

[bmiller]

You can easily install a modified firmware for the nec to remove riplock.

[pcbman]

I think the 3550a was first to come without riplock.
and if you get an older NEC (pre3550a)
Liggy an Dees NEC firmware upgrades will take care of it.

[samijubal]

The NEC I have isn't the best reader of scratched discs. It's a hell of a burner, but it could read better.

[pcbman]

Novus plastic polish is great for those scratched discs.
I've returned 'coasters' to readable condition with it.

[OneSickPup]

Scratched disks can be a real problem. I agree with samijubal in that my NEC 3550 isn't the best reader of scratched disks. The best burner as far as reading scratched disks that I have is the Lite-On 165H6S. For the really tough reads I use an old dvd-rom (Lite-On SOHD 167T). It has never failed me and have had it for years. I don't use it much for reading (because of riplock) but my LG GSA 4167B is a slow but reliable reader.

Which is most important burning-wise DL or SL? For the primary burner I would say a coin toss between the Benq 1650/55 and the Pioneer 111. If DL is the most important then the Pioneer has the edge in my book. If SL is more important I would give the slight nod to the Benq 165x drives. Both these drives are good readers but not as good as the ones mentioned above when it comes to scratches. YMMV.

I would definitely go the Lite-On route as a secondary burner because I use the Lite-On experimental firmware and also need it's excellent scanning capabilities. The LG 4167B (or newer H10) are excellent if scanning is no issue. Based on your preferred media these drives do exceptionally well. If you don't want to mess with frequent firmware tests - go the LG route. Good luck.

[LT9000]

"Which is most important burning-wise DL or SL?"

SL is for now. But that may change as DL comes down in price and becomes more and more common.

[LT9000]

"The best burner as far as reading scratched disks that I have is the Lite-On 165H6S."

I've heard the same re: the Samsung SH-W162C.

Can anyone confirm the Sam as an extraordinary reader/ripper as well?

I was thinking of going with it and the BQ or Pio.

[LT9000]

Novus plastic polish is great for those scratched discs.
I've returned 'coasters' to readable condition with it.

How exactly do you use it?

[pcbman]

There are 3 different levels. #3 for deep scratches, #2 for minor ones and #1 for polishing.
Usually only need the #2 and #1. Its alot like car wax, apply properly, let dry, wipe off.
Best directions i've seen for using it are at the following link.
Hope its ok to post it here??

http://www.ericofon.com/sale/novus.htm