Bad Batch?

[Germanicus__]

I recently bought a 25 pack spindle of TDK DVD-R from Staples for $25. The media code was TDKG02, so they should be quality disks. I burned the first one no problem. The next disk failed to write the lead-in, so did the next one. After a couple of coasters I started to adjust the settings and simulate the burn (using the latest version of Nero 5): everyone failed before the actual burning even began. I tried burning with ImgTool Burn to no effect. I tried writing an ISO image with ImgTool and burning with DVDdecryptor. No luck. Meanwhile I finished up using my Fuji's--which continued to work just fine.

My question is, is this likely a software issue, a drive compatibility issue, or could it be just a bad batch of disks?

The funny thing is the first one worked!! I even tried the last disk on the spindle just for kicks, and it failed. Luckily I was able to return that spindle without any difficulties.

I would like to be able to use the TDK's as they are basically quality disks at a great price. But I don't want to give up on them if I just had a bit o' bad luck. All the other disks I've tried have burned without issue (barring a couple of bad disks of the cheap CompUSA variety. I new to this. Are bad disks just sporadic, do they tend to come in batches, or both?

Thanks

Windows XP sp1
Optorite DD0201

[Espen]

Have TDK worked for you before? If yes, than it's probably a bad batch. If you haven't use TDK before, well than just stay away from them!

[Germanicus__]

I have just started, so have used only a few different disks: Sony, Imation, Maxell, Fuji, and CompUSA. All of these have worked fine (except for mixed resulted with the CompUSA ones).

These were the first TDK's I've tried. And, as I've said, only the first one worked (of the 10 or so tried) . . . but it did work!?!

[spiffy]

I must have gotten the exact same batch as you -- and the first two burns the Lead-In failed. Luckily I was only on simulation, so I returned the entire spindle back to Staples and got my money back.

I bought the Imation 50 pack -Rs from Best Buy on the same weekend, and I'm pretty happy with them so far. So I don't think I'll be using TDK with my DRU-510A anytime soon...

Spiffy