- Writing Quality

In order to test the writing quality and readability of the burned media we used two readers equipped with two software applications:

- The LiteON SOHD-167T with patched firmware being able to read DVD5 up to 16X CAV and DVD9 up to 10X CAV. For the transfer rate tests we used the latest Nero CDSpeed version.

- The Plextor PX-716A with the latest available firmware. For scanning the disc, we used the latest PlexTools version at 2X CLV reading speed, BURST mode, with middle accuracy.

In general, a "perfect" disc should have a smooth reading curve, very low PIE/POE and zero (0) POF error rates. Most times however, even though a disc has very low PIE/POE error rates, the reading curve may not be smooth containing dropoffs. Due to the fact that we oversped the reading capabilities of the LiteON SOHD-167T, such drops are expected, especially near the outer area of the disc.

The measurements below should not be taken as the absolute criterion of the burning quality, but as an indication level.

- Verbatim DVD+R DL 8X @ 8X

Unfortunately the Plextor 716 could not recognize the inserted media.

- MKM DVD-R DL 4X @ 4X

- Traxdata DVD+R DL 2.4X @ 2.4X

Unfortunately the Plextor 716 could not recognize the inserted media.

- Traxdata DVD-R DL 4X @ 4X

Overall, average quality with the above DL media. We would like to see less errors reported with Plextools in line with results reported with most of the latest burners. In two cases, those of Verbatim DVD+R DL 8X and Traxdata DVD+R DL 2.4X, the Plextor drive could not recognize the media, while the other two media reported high PO values and not so smooth CD-Speed graphs. A firmware release addressing the quality issue here would be welcome.