I wanted to post my limited testing results here for everyone. Lets look at the test setup first:

HARDWARE
CPU - AMD 2.2GHz with 512MB RAM PC-2700
OS - XP PRO
HD - IBM 7200 RPM, 100GB
Video - GeForce 4 TI-4200 64MB
1st DVD-ROM drive - Lite On LTD-163
2nd DVD-ROM drive - Pioneer DVD-117
DVD burner - Sony DRU500A

SOFTWARE
DVD Decrypter version 3.1.4.0
DVDXCOPY version 1.2.1

DVD
Gladiator - NTSC

Your test results will vary depending on the hardware and movie selected for the test.

My test is very limited and only measures the RIP time. Both DVD Decrypter and DVDXCOPY took the same time. With DVD Decrypter the time to rip the complete movie to HD. With DVDXCOPY the time is to get the first DISC to HD.

RESULTS
Lite On - 16 minutes
Pioneer - 12 minutes

WINNER
PIONEER

MEDIA SUPPORTED
The Pioneer will play -R/W and +R/W.
The Sony will write -R/W and +R/W.

CONCLUSION
So if you are looking for the best DVD-ROM and DVD burner combination today buy the Pioneer DVD-117 for $50 and the Sony DRU500A for $350 or whatever you can find it for.