Types of media

[remydobe]

So many types of media to choose from, CD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, etc................ My questions is what to choose from and what is the advantage? Everyone has their preference so I want to know from all of you what you use and why. Thanks

[yoda313]

Basically they all do the same thing - hold data. Simple restricitions though dictate your uses.

CD media typically is limited to audio or data files (such as divx files, backup for photos, etc...). CD can do vcd or svcd video but its lower quality than dvd and can only hold less video and is less readily compatible with todays dvd players.

DVD-rw and DVD+rw are eraseable dvds. Generally they have good compatiblity so you don't really have to worry about them.

-r is generally more compatible than +r but the gap is really small these days with current dvd players.

Your choice is up to you.

[Skith]

Another thing to keep in mind is that the rewritable formats (CD-RW, DVD +/-RW) are not designed for long term storage, they are for short term storage and transfer only.

[remydobe]

So basicsally for what I want to do, either format, - or + RW would be OK? I only really want to record movies and such to watch later and have no plans to keep anything very long. I know if I wanted to archive video to keep forever, so to speak, I would be better using DVD-r or DVD+r? I just want to re-use the discs over and over without having to buy a ton of them. Thanks again

[yoda313]

RW would be your best bet then. If you only care about reusing the discs that is what RW is for. - or + doesn't really make too much of a difference these days.

[CrayonEater]

Except that you will have to find out - most likely, through some trial-and-error - whether the devices you wish to play on will read RW formats and, if so, if they have problems with one format or the other (+ or -), and what media brands. Most DVD devices, be they players, recorders, computer writers, portables, etc., are usually a little finicky about RW. Even if the packages says it's compatible with a particular format, it isn't always so and brand quality makes a big difference. Don't let this scare you though; it's not really a big hassle. Just remember two things: 1.) generally try to buy media that is made in Japan; 2.) keep your receipt in case you need to return whatever media you buy. Obviously, it helps to go to a place like Best Buy or Wal-Mart that doesn't give you a hard time about open returns. Erase any discs you use and return them if they don't play. That'll do it.

P.S. A good, cheap, almost-all-format player is the Philips DVP-642, if you run into problems with the equipment you already have. There are others too, just search "DVD Players".

P.P.S. You are aware that DVD hold about 7 times as much as CD, correct? CD is good for small stuff and music, but, obviously, you normally would want to record TV shows and movies and such on DVD.