CD writers

[gas path]

Any thoughts on a decent cd writer?
I was looking around a local pc world and was tempted by a Memorex 16*12*40 with 50 free discs for 129GBP. They also do another slightly slower machine and the only difference appeared to be the software noxio (spelling??) for the former and adaptec for the latter.
What thinkest thou??

[fobotcso]

Did you do a search?

Click on this:
http://www.pprune.org/cgibin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=35&t=001150

That thread will in turn lead you to other threads where this has been discussed recently.

I'm happy with my HP8100 and my Freecom traveller but the best software depends on your OS as well as your Drive.

[Squiddley]

gas path

There plenty of choices out there, and prices are getting better too :D A cheaper option is looking at drives from manufacturers you might not so familiar with.

I went for an Aopen (http://www.aopen.com.tw) branded unit, which is actually made by Ricoh. It's a great piece of kit, burns flawlessly (and quickly) and has a great software package.

One important feature to look for is this "Burnproof" feature. Ricoh's version is called "Justlink", and it is intended to prevent coaster-making or "buffer (over?)under-runs". This is that annoying trend of getting to the end of a lengthy burn process, only to be told that the burning was unsuccessful.

You might also want to check out Epinions (http://www.epinions.com) where you can get real-life user reviews and comments on all sorts of gear.

Good luck.

[Background Noise]

gas path

Speed is definitely worth it but the relative value of the freebies is:

Discs (700mb/80 min) - about £25 for 100.
Easy CD Creator 5 Platinum - about £40.

The software I think you saw is roxio who appear to be the same lot as Adaptec. If you get one with their Easy CD Creator, get at least version 4 deluxe. It does music, MP3 to CD audio, records from any source, retouches scratchy stuff, photo albums, video postcards and VCDs.

[RW-1]

>>relative value of the freebies is<<

Nothing.

You are buying hardware, if you get a crap drive it won't matter how much you saved on the stuff that came with it. Period.

You can always obtain software, or find deals on discs, they are cheap.

[ 27 August 2001: Message edited by: RW-1 ]

[Pen it off!]

gas path,

i used to have adaptec software, but was then spoilt with a copy of NERO. Although Nero lacks the cosmetics of Adaptec, it far outweighs the contenders in it's options and accessories.

noted with thanks.