Need to buy DVD burner. Which one?

GPL wrote on 3/31/2003, 8:46 PM

I just received Vegas 4 + DVD. I'm looking for the best DVD burner. I want one that will burn to DVD-RAM for back up purposes which means I will be burning DVDs to DVD-R. The list of compatible burners that came with the software lists the Panasonic LF-321 and LF-311 which meet this criteria. There is a new Panasonic LF-521U that I think may have replaced LF-311.

Questions:
1. Does anyone know if the LF-521U is compatible?
2. Are there any other burners that would be a better choice?

Comments

watson wrote on 3/31/2003, 9:47 PM

The new DVD Burner from Sony DRU-500 Looks like a very comprehensive choice.

riredale wrote on 3/31/2003, 10:01 PM

Do a search on "burner" on this forum, and you'll get an eyeful. This has been a common topic.

I personally use a Cendyne/Pioneer -05 because it burns at 4x yet cost me only $150 a few months back.

biggles wrote on 4/1/2003, 12:42 AM

I also use the Pioneer A-05 because it burns at 4X.

foredogg wrote on 4/1/2003, 1:16 AM

I have the HP 200i and have had practically no problems using Ulead's MovieFactory 2 or SonicMyDVD that came with the unit . HP has since released the 300i version that burns at a higher speed. However, I have been thinking of switching to the Sony 500A because of the cross-format capabilities and faster speed. Should I wait? hmm...

ReneH wrote on 4/1/2003, 10:24 AM

I have a TDK that setup with no problems. Burns fast and no errors. Works like a charm on winxp prof.

craftech wrote on 4/1/2003, 10:32 AM

I would avoid the Sony. Too many problems from a company with a bad attitude. The Pioneer DVD-R drives would probably be your best bet at a very reasonable price. They are compatible with nearly all software and can be purchased as Cendyne repackaged units when deals are posted for well under $200 dollars after rebates.

surfnturk wrote on 4/1/2003, 11:54 AM

I have been very happy with the Pioneer/Cendyne 05 unit. Got it for $150 after all the rebates. Burns at 4X.
If you have a fat pipe connection and some time check out
http://www.dvdrhelp.com/
There is more info there than you can shake a DVD at. Check both the forums and section on writers (on left of screen)

haze2 wrote on 4/1/2003, 12:56 PM

I have the Sony DRU-500A and have yet to produce a coaster. I love it.

Haze

way2slo wrote on 4/1/2003, 4:26 PM

the sony one is good, it does +/- burning, but i do think its a bit over price(just my opinion).
i just bought a pioneer A05, it does the job right, 4x speed burning is fast and stable, very quiet too. sure it will keep up with the sony.
take a look at this http://www.cdrinfo.com/Sections/Articles/Specific.asp?ArticleHeadline=Pioneer+DVR%2DA05&Series=0

Bear wrote on 4/1/2003, 7:41 PM

Honestly I am a Sony fanatic most everything I have is Sony it may cost a little more but I have never had problems with a Sony product. I bought the DRU500A (of course I couldn't wait so I paid to much) and have not made a coaster yet.

jhart wrote on 4/1/2003, 8:31 PM

Hey... if you want a deal on the Sony, only $225 after rebate! I just bought one... here's a link to the oem and a firmware flash for full sony support!! enjoy!! I think its over 4/4

http://shop2.outpost.com/{PoTjoHOFUdVEVRWcwIMEs9uXxUlD1FUxN3rlnc8uZSxBWrUvs4Ai|-4886171151178951109/168694308/6/7001/7001/7002/7002/7001/-1|-7686858332206856061/168694306/6/7001/7001/7002/7002/7001/-1|1048896416942}/product/3612885

Here's a thread at anandtech that links with the flashware..

http://forums.anandtech.com/messageview.cfm?catid=40&threadid=1012171

Best,

John

ocean wrote on 4/2/2003, 12:25 AM

John,
That link comes up as "IDE Ikebana Internal 4x DVD-R/-RW/+R/+RW" not Sony. Did you get Sony or Ikebana or is the Ikebana really a Sony?

Thanks

Avene wrote on 4/2/2003, 1:50 AM

I'm planning on getting a Sony PCGGRV7P notebook computer. DVD writer built in, 16.1" screen with a 1600x1200 resolution, 2.6ghz P4, 60g hard drive (15gb + 45gb), and all else it has to offer. Should be perfect for Vegas and it's new DVD software. Best part is that I have a friend whose brother works for Sony and can get a 30% discount :)

FuTz wrote on 4/2/2003, 7:25 AM

Hey Avenue, when you buy your computer, just be sure to have a check at this:
http://www.sonicfoundry.com/support/SupportProduct.asp?FamilyID=52&Family=VideoFactory&TopicID=78&DetailID=608

... maybe it's been fixed since then but, still, I tell you. Otherwise, SPOT has mentionned that they use 'em (Sonys) a lot with no problems...
And this 16" screen... have a good time!

craftech wrote on 4/2/2003, 8:36 AM

jhart wrote on 4/2/2003, 8:47 AM

READ... go to the anand posts... the drive is a Sony OEM Drive, Model DW-U10A... it is mechanically exactly the same as the sony dru 500, just flash the drive to the latest dl after you get the coversion zip explained at anantech.