selecting most compatible dvd-r

[frankj]

I have just started making dvds. I have been filming and distributing vhs. I noted that not all dvds play on all dvd players. How do I select the most universal dvd on which to record so that my customers will not have problems?

[fritzi93]

Have a look at this:

http://www.digitalfaq.com/media/dvdmedia.htm

Use first-class media. DVD-R has a slight compatibility edge on older players, although if you bitset +R discs, the difference is probably negligible or non-existent. Good luck.

[pinetop]

I have a few older DVD players that will only play DVD-R X4. And some brands of DVD-Rx4s will not play at all. None the less, X4 is the way to go.

You need to buy these online.

[frankj]

Thanks for the responses. I consulted with the folks at the local community access television station. They have converted to DVD over the past few months and did a lot of research. They had noted that several other stations got lots of returns on DVDs that would not play. Here is what they found:

1. Using an external DVD recorder to "make movies" rather than the DVD recorder in the computer is effective.

2. They use DVD-Rs purchased online--One of the brands listed as best on the site that you recommended I study.

3. So far, they have had no returns.

My further question is: should I use an external DVD recorder? Have you had this suggestion made before?

And one other question: I have not been able to get a mike to work for voice overs. The folks at the television station told me that they have never had great luck with miked voiceovers recorded directly onto the software and that they record voiceovers on a separate medium and then load them onto the voiceover track. Does this sound familiar?

Thanks.