HP DVD200i vs. Sony DRU-500A

[ILL Robinson]

Hey folks-

So I broke down and finally bought myself a DVD writer - as I needed it for a project I'm working on.

Unfornunately, I wanted to purchase the Sony unit as it, of course, accommodates several DVD formats, but was unable to find it locally (or through some initial web sites). To that, I found the HP locally, which I installed without too much of a prob (though I have yet to create an DVDs with it).

After remembering this site, I see that it offers several online retailers that do in fact have the Sony unit in stock. I guess my question is: Should I stay with the HP unit purchased or try to refund it & purchase the Sony DRU500a?

Any thoughts would be appreciated....

Robs

[ItsMe]

Do a forum search for the Sony. You will soon realize that a lot of people are have lot problems.

[hxc3634]

I got Sony DRU500A and I know it has media compatability issue but if you carefully looked at the forum. You can't find many DVD+R/RW issue. The problem is cheap DVD-R/RW issue but once you find proper media your problem will be solved. I got Ritek Prime DVD-R ($1 a piece). and never have a problem with it. I'm using Memorex DVD+R and Verbatim DVD+RW without a issue. Always cheaper media cause problem even for Pioneer 104. I think sony media problem is exaggerated. It's true that Sony has more cheap media problems than Pioneer but Using both +- format is a huge advantage. I'm using DVD-R/RW for DVD video and DVD+RW for data backup because DVD+RW is faster. It is difficult to find 2x DVD-RW. It's just my opinion.

[sumibas]

hi,

if you can Please read an article in pc world december issue. it deals with about 13 dvd writers in market and has selected SONY DRU500 as the best.

[alenhard]

The DRU500A is a great drive. You can't go wrong! I've never tried the HP and I've heard good things about it, but just for the compatibility issues the Sony wins in my opinion. As posted above, just avoid the cheap media.

[jeepers94]

As far as troubles go,Sony is not the only burner with them! I bought the Pioneer A03.It went belly up after about 6 weeks.The replacement lasted about 3 months! I traded that for the A04.It has had media troubles from day 1. I have gone to the Sony 500A,and would not buy another
Pioneer over the Sony! Even the new A05!
I don't find that many posts against the Sony.The media problem is something that pops up with just about every major change to burners,
cd and dvd.

[romu]

I have read the guides, but I still don't fully understand the +/- thing.