DVD- OR DVD + ??????

[quoman]

I have just bought a Toshiba DVR3 (- format) and have recorded a couple of DVD-RW, the trouble is, they won't play on other DVD players, even though I have finalised both discs. I have also tried unfinalising them and trying that, but neither work. I want to ask you what could be the problem. Secondly, which format is best for "sharing" the DVDs amongst friends and family, as I don't see the point of recording a disc if I am the only one that can watch it, and only on one DVD player!! Any advice would be much appreciated - and any recommendations on a decent DVD/VR would also help as I am sending this one back. Thanks

[Krispy Kritter]

I believe the biggest problem is the recording mode. Most recorders have 2 choices, video or VR. "Video" is the normal dvd standard. Most players and pc's have trouble with VR.

As for sharing discs, it is a matter of trial and error. Most newer drives will read either type (+/-). I've had good results with both types on my drives. There is no one type that works in all players. There is usually a bigger issue with disc brand, than the type used.

[bevills1]

My older Toshiba player will play no RW media and plays only -R or +R set to DVD-ROM, and yours may be similar problem. Try copy your -RW to -R or +R which may be your solution.

[MysticE]

I believe the biggest problem is the recording mode. Most recorders have 2 choices, video or VR. "Video" is the normal dvd standard. Most players and pc's have trouble with VR...

Good point my older Pioneer standalone defaulted to 'VR' and I had similiar problems till I set it to Video.

A friend once brought over some VHS transfers someone had made for him on an older Panasonic that would not play on his standalone. I ran them thru DVDShrink, reauthored without the Panasonic menu, reburned and they now work for him.

[quoman]

Thanks very much - it now works in Video mode as opposed to VR mode.