Toshiba SD-R5002 DVD-R(RW) vs Sony DRU

[bertmartin]

The new Toshiba SD-R5002 DVD-R(RW) looks pretty good but only burns at 2x. I could grow old waiting for the Sony drive. Has anyone had experience or suggestions regarding this drive. I think Sony must be having some problems with their drive and I don't need problems.
Thanks, Bert

[dpcpro]

I originally bought the Sony DRU-500A burner and had so many problems that I returned it and bought the Toshiba SD-R5002 for $190.00. I have made about 10 backups so far and it works great. I use RecordNow Max 4.5 and the disks work on all of the players I have tried and even the XBox. I read on Toshiba's site that the way this burner writes it makes like 98% compatible DVDs. I would like to start using Gear Pro but it has problems with Ifoedit, so I am waiting awhile.

I recommend this burner definately. I hope they come out with a 4x model soon.

dpcpro

[bertmartin]

Where did you find it for $190? I see it for $229 with software. Did you get the OEM with no software?
Thanks

[dpcpro]

I bought it at www.esbuy.com for $190 bare drive only. Perfect for that price!!!

[bertmartin]

Thanks, I ordered it and its on its way already. I'll report back on its performance.
Bert

[dun4cheap]

I know Frys electronics have tons of Sonys instock. Great product. Goto www.outpost.com. That is Frys online and get yourself one. I have not actually burned 4x yet, only 2x. Guess I am just waiting for the store locally to get them. I can get the ritek and sony 2x locally for $39.99 for 50. .80 a disc.

[DVantrease]

NewEgg has this burner for $176 with free shipping. It's the OEM so no software, here's a link: http://www.newegg.com/app/viewproduct.asp?DEPA=&submit=Go&description=sd%2Dr5002

Note they have it listed as 'SD-R5002TA', I don't know what the TA is, it has the same exact specs and Toshiba.com only lists the SD-R5002.

[Seraphic]

If the Newegg Toshiba is not as picky about burning 1x media at 2x like my DVR-105 then I'd say that was a good deal.

[bertmartin]

I picked up the Toshiba SD-R5002 at esbuy.com for $200 with software including free shipping. Will receive it later this week. I also ordered Toshiba tested Ritek 25 Pack DVD-Rs from Meritline.
Thanks Bert

[AlterEcho]

I have owned the Toshiba since December.
No coasters yet, and have it to work on several DVD players. Their is a media list that I try to stick to. Ritek, being one of the media that supports this drive. The reason I picked this drive over the Sony was I only needed DVD-R/RW since +R/RW appears to not not play in as many players.
Well worth the price

[MrSnake]

mmmh, ok, here's the Sony defender ;p

"I have a Sony DRU500 and it works greeaat "

Two friends of mine have a Pioneer A05 and a Toshiba 5002, no problems either (unless it's authoring of burnsoft related).

If you stick to the well-established brands I think all are good, it just depends on the rest of your PC.

I know people who had problems with a Pioneer drive, while that same drive work perfectly in another PC.
Doesn't necesarrily mean that the Pioneer is a bad drive.

MrSnake

[jacknjt]

GOOD DRIVES have more compatibilities. i dont see alot of +rw drives haveing problems.

[MrSnake]

@jacknjt
I agree to a certain degree.
More expensive drives from established brands are generally more compatible compared to the exotic brands.
They went to a range of certified tests, e.g. WHQL from MS.

However, if you have a shitty system, full of conflicts or whatsoever, it's not necessarilly the drive's fault that it's not working properly.

MrSnake