DVD Burner DILEMA. HELP, PLEASE

[Chopramo]

Hi
I am shopping for a new DVD burner and its my first one, been looking to buy for a while now, cant seem to make up my mind hope someone can help me out here. i have made some choices if you think there is one better than the ones below do tell. I have included links for every burner. thanks

Mainly I am looking for something that will last for a while but with good features

Benq 1620 : Price 79.99 after MIR and Savings
Future Shop (http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?sku_id=0665000FS10056097&catid=10475&logon=&langid=EN)

BenQ DW1625 16X LightScribe : $149.99
Future Shop (http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?sku_id=0665000FS10058262&catid=10475&logon=&langid=EN)

LG 4160B : Price $149.99
Future Shop (http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?logon=&langid=EN&sku_id=0665000FS10055584&catid=10475)

NEC ND-3520A : Price $79.99
Tiger Direct (http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1337277&CatId=0)

Sony DRU-720A: PM from staples comes down to $65.
RFD Forum (http://forums.redflagdeals.com/showthread.php?t=161371)

[Rehan]

I would pick none of the above.

Choose one of the burners from NCIX's current sale:
http://www2.ncix.com/promo/promosale.php?affiliateid=472595&webid=supersale2
(scroll down to the list of DVD burners)

It's only $5.99 for shipping, and you won't have to pay any PST.

[Macross_Freek]

A few people have posted that their benq 1620's were crap but I wouldn't know since I dont' have one. I was going to buy it but then I decided to get an NEC. Been working pretty good so far although I don't burn that much.

You should also consider a Pioneer.

[Chopramo]

A few people have posted that their benq 1620's were crap but I wouldn't know since I dont' have one. I was going to buy it but then I decided to get an NEC. Been working pretty good so far although I don't burn that much.

You should also consider a Pioneer.

which pioneer is good?

[webdoctors]

I would choose none of those and buy it from here (http://www.cty.ca/opticaldrive.asp) since U in Toronto:

LG 4163B 16x DVD-R/+R DL Writer White (w/o software) info $65
LG 4163B 16x DVD-R/+R DL Writer Black (w/o software) info $65
Lite-on SOHW-1673S 16x DVD-R/+R 4x DL Writer White (with software) info $69
Lite-on SOHW-1673S 16x DVD-R/+R 4x DL Writer Black (with software) info $69
Pioneer DVR-109 16x DVD-R/+R DL Writer White (w/o software) info $73
Pioneer DVR-109 16x DVD-R/+R DL Writer Black (w/o software) info $73
Plextor PX-716A 16X DVD Writer (with software) info $159
Plextor PX-716SA 16X Serial ATA DVD Writer (with software) info $175

no MIR hassles, I think the LG4163B looks like a great deal, for $65.

[Chopramo]

I went and did some more research and finally came down to LG GSA 4163B and Pioneer DVR 109 and NEC ND 3520 they cost arond the same price.

any thoughts ?? or additional info?


The above are available at NICX (http://www2.ncix.com/promo/promosale.php?affiliateid=472595&webid=supersale2) and CTY (http://www.cty.ca/opticaldrive.asp)

Thanks to Rehan and Webdoctor for the links

[Macross_Freek]

Well you've pretty much cut the list down to 3 very good burners. My first pick would be the Pioneer then the either the NEC or LG. IMHO, all three are very good burners and you can't go wrong buying any of them. Read the reviews and check to see which features you'll most likely use and other things such as burn tests. cdrinfo.com is a review I use. If you still can't decide just pick one :) . All three are solid burners.

[The Digital Dolphin]

If you are looking for my opinion on this, I would suggest the following:

Do *NOT* buy *ANY* LiteON or Sony brand drives, under ANY circumstances.

Do *NOT* buy *ANY* LG brand drives, with the exception of the LG 4163B. It's pretty light on the extra features, but pretty user friendly. Stick with 8x recording for best results, as the 12x and 16x recording speeds are a little flawed.

Do *NOT* buy the Pioneer DVR-109... unless you plan on feeding it nothing but Taiyo Yuden and Verbatim brand media. The only pro's to this drive are the 6x DVD±RDL burning speeds, but if you can wait for either the NEC 3540 or the BenQ DW1640, you will probably be much happier. Also, the Pioneer DVR-109 is very weak on extra features.

The BenQ DW1620 is an excellent drive, as long as you don't use Prodisc DVD-Rs (Also sold as Smartbuy). Some Kodak DVD-Rs have issues too, but the media is absolute crap anyways! This drive is VERY feature heavy, and has great user support, and incredible firmware support. More hackable then LiteON, and with more funky tools for testing media, both before and after burning!! (P.S. Don't get the BenQ DW1625 if you don't plan on using Lightscribe... even if you DO plan on using Lightscribe, you probably won't use it very long, and will regret the decision).

The NEC 3520 is a good rounded burner, not too unlike the LG 4163B, but like the LG 4163B it lacks a lot of extra features.

The PX-716a is a great drive, but too expensive for most people. This drive also has a lot of awesome extra features like the BenQ DW1620.

[Madcatmk2]

If you are looking for my opinion on this, I would suggest the following:

Do *NOT* buy *ANY* LiteON or Sony brand drives, under ANY circumstances.

Do *NOT* buy *ANY* LG brand drives, with the exception of the LG 4163B. It's pretty light on the extra features, but pretty user friendly. Stick with 8x recording for best results, as the 12x and 16x recording speeds are a little flawed.

Do *NOT* buy the Pioneer DVR-109... unless you plan on feeding it nothing but Taiyo Yuden and Verbatim brand media. The only pro's to this drive are the 6x DVD±RDL burning speeds, but if you can wait for either the NEC 3540 or the BenQ DW1640, you will probably be much happier. Also, the Pioneer DVR-109 is very weak on extra features.

The BenQ DW1620 is an excellent drive, as long as you don't use Prodisc DVD-Rs (Also sold as Smartbuy). Some Kodak DVD-Rs have issues too, but the media is absolute crap anyways! This drive is VERY feature heavy, and has great user support, and incredible firmware support. More hackable then LiteON, and with more funky tools for testing media, both before and after burning!! (P.S. Don't get the BenQ DW1625 if you don't plan on using Lightscribe... even if you DO plan on using Lightscribe, you probably won't use it very long, and will regret the decision).

The NEC 3520 is a good rounded burner, not too unlike the LG 4163B, but like the LG 4163B it lacks a lot of extra features.

The PX-716a is a great drive, but too expensive for most people. This drive also has a lot of awesome extra features like the BenQ DW1620.


DD, i need your help. I have zero credibility so here is goes:
Could you please explain to GreenWeenie and mahjongmaniac that Sony has signed a contract with Liteon for all their DVD burners while they are working on Blue-ray. Also the DRU-720A can use Kprobe tools that are designed for Liteon drives. They need some kind of confirmation.....???????? :confused:
here (http://forums.redflagdeals.com/showthread.php?t=161371)

[Madcatmk2]

"
The BenQ DW1620 is an excellent drive, as long as you don't use Prodisc DVD-Rs (Also sold as Smartbuy). Some Kodak DVD-Rs have issues too, but the media is absolute crap anyways! This drive is VERY feature heavy, and has great user support, and incredible firmware support. More hackable then LiteON, and with more funky tools for testing media, both before and after burning!! (P.S. Don't get the BenQ DW1625 if you don't plan on using Lightscribe... even if you DO plan on using Lightscribe, you probably won't use it very long, and will regret the decision).

The NEC 3520 is a good rounded burner, not too unlike the LG 4163B, but like the LG 4163B it lacks a lot of extra features.
"

The Nec 3520 is even more hackable then the benq's. Has the best user support you could have. You will also get newer firmware through the nec rebadgers like Iodata and Mad dog that are pushing nec to to his homework.
Has bad hardware support though. :(

[Warlock]

No issues encountered as of yet with LG GSA-4163B.

[The Digital Dolphin]

DD, i need your help. I have zero credibility so here is goes:
Could you please explain to GreenWeenie and mahjongmaniac that Sony has signed a contract with Liteon for all their DVD burners while they are working on Blue-ray. Also the DRU-720A can use Kprobe tools that are designed for Liteon drives. They need some kind of confirmation.....???????? :confused:
here (http://forums.redflagdeals.com/showthread.php?t=161371)

Yup, the DRU720 is a LiteON 1673S with a pretty (girly looking?) face plate. It's possibly one of the worst drives to come out of LiteON, and requires firmware hacking in order to do anything right. The Sony firmware is (I'm told) marginally better then the native LiteON one (which shows you how pathetically lazy LiteON is, since they should be able to design better firmwares easier then Sony!!).

Not a recommended drive by ANY means!

[The Digital Dolphin]

The Nec 3520 is even more hackable then the benq's. Has the best user support you could have. You will also get newer firmware through the nec rebadgers like Iodata and Mad dog that are pushing nec to to his homework.
Has bad hardware support though. :(

Ok, I *did* forget the existance of firmware hacks for the drive, and a lot of "fan support" so to speak... but saying the NEC 3520 is *MORE* hackable then the BenQ DW1620?

The BenQ DW1620 can have its' firmware ripped apart manually and have any firmware strategy swapped for any other, just like a LiteON, only UNLIKE a LiteON, you don't *NEED* to do it in order to get usable writing quality out of it. I don't think the NEC has that ability at this time (although in all fairness, I am not 100% sure).

Not to say anything bad about Herrie's hacks at all, but the Code Guys always seem to give more flexability with their hacks (like being able to customize a firmware yourself) whereas Herrie's tend to be one shot, take it or leave it, hacks.

[Spent]

SOHW-1673S 16X DVD-Re-Writeable drive has earned a number of awards and “recommended buy� classifications after a series of rigorous testing and review processes by three of the most respected online publications in the industry. Heavenly hardware.com gave the new dual layer DVD recorder its highest honor by presenting it with its coveted Heavenly Hardware Gold Award. In addition, the SOHW-1673S received the Silver Award from tech-mods.com by scoring a 9 out of a possible 10 in all categories tested. ExtremeMhz.com gave the DVD recorder a “recommended buy� after its review and rated it as �one of the fastest CDR multi-format writers on the market.�

The new DVD recorder is an indispensable archiving tool for digital content enthusiasts who want to transfer and preserve vacation videos, download streaming videos, backup and archive important documents and other multimedia applications with remarkable speed. The DVD recorder also received high marks for combining versatility and performance with an extremely attractive retail price of approximately $62.00 (U.S.).

“Lite-On’s new SOHW-1673S is a great drive for the price and is very versatile,� said Andrew Benicasa, senior review specialist at tech-mods.com. “The 1673S writes quickly and with fine quality, two elements to be expected from Lite-On. Read times are as advertised and error free. It was definitely worthy of our Silver Award of Excellence.�

“The SOHW 1673S could read and write to everything I threw at it – from various manufacturers – flawlessly,� said Frank (Dom) DeJesus at driverheaven.net.
“I’m not quite sure how they do it, but it’s easy to see why Lite-On is number one at what they do,� he added.

“Lite-On is very proud and thankful for the awards our new 1673 dual layer DVD recorder has received from these very highly regarded publications,� said Christine Hsing, Marketing Manager at Lite-On. “Our goal at Lite-On has been to produce the highest quality products at very competitive prices for our customers. The quality of the 1673S is based not only on our R&D and manufacturing capabilities, but the willingness to listen to feedback from our customers and use these helpful comments in our next generation products,� Ms. Hsing concluded.

The SOHW-1673S is an “all-in-one� recording/player device that delivers a variety of high quality capabilities for burning DVDs and CDs. The DVD recorder supports up to 16X DVD+R recording and 4X DVD+R double layer, making it among the fastest on the market. The internal ATAPI/E-IDE interface makes this award winning drive easy to install in a variety of desktop enclosures. The short loader mechanism dissipates heat better than most longer loader models available on the market today and the standard 2MB onboard buffer enhances overall drive performance while minimizing buffer under run conditions. These features, combined with its high performance and extremely affordable pricepoint, certainly make the Lite-On SOHW-1673S a best buy among all re-writeable drives on the market.

The SOHW-1673S drive bundles an impressive assortment of DVD authoring software and recording applets for creation of data, music, and video discs, including Ahead’s Nero Express 6, Nero Vision Express, and PowerDVD from Cyberlink. For sheer simplicity and power, these applications are ideally suited to meet a wide range of consumer requirements for the creation and playback of DVDs, VCDs, and SVCDs.

tech mods (http://www.tech-mods.net/modules.php?name=Reviews&file=viewreview&op=newreview&id=60)

Driver heaven (http://www.driverheaven.net/reviews/1673s/)

Extreme Mhz (http://extrememhz.com/sohw1673s-p9.shtml)

I also second Rehan's suggestion that you're better off going
with the NCIX's burners than the ones you initially listed


PC World rates internal and external DVD-RW drives

NEC and Lite-On win PC World's "Best Buy" award
In PC World's top 10 rating of internal DVD burners, two of the top three contenders won "Best Buy" accolades. Of the Pioneer model, the kissing cousin of which PC Mag loved (see above), PC World said it had a "poky CD write speed." Well, that's why we bring you these reviews, so you can see these disagreements for yourself.

Memorex 16x Dual Format Double Layer Internal DVD Recorder (Score: 4.0/5.0)
Lite-On SOHW-1633Sa (Best Buy, 4.0)
NEC ND-3500A (Best Buy, 4.0)
Sony DRU-710A (4.0)
LG Electronics Super-Multi GSA-4160B (3.5)
BenQ DW1620 (3.5)
Pioneer DVR-A08XLA (3.5)
TDK Internal IndiDVD 12x+/8x- Multiformat Burner (3.0)
Pacific Digital Mach-16 (3.0)
Teac DVW58G (3.0)

The full review was published in the January 2005 issue of PC World.

[sleepyguy]

Not a single problem with my 1620 yet... 1 bad burn so far but it was my fault (playing games, mp3, 10+ IE pages open). Excellent burning imho.

A few people have posted that their benq 1620's were crap but I wouldn't know since I dont' have one. I was going to buy it but then I decided to get an NEC. Been working pretty good so far although I don't burn that much.

You should also consider a Pioneer.

[Defiant]

Im using an LG 4163B and have encountered no problems thus far. DD, you mentioned that it was light on features? I was under the impression that this was one of the more feature rich drives, can you elaborate? Also, have you tested any 12-16x media with this drive using the A04 firmware?

[The Digital Dolphin]

Im using an LG 4163B and have encountered no problems thus far. DD, you mentioned that it was light on features? I was under the impression that this was one of the more feature rich drives, can you elaborate? Also, have you tested any 12-16x media with this drive using the A04 firmware?

By features, I mean it doesn't support extensive firmware hacking (like LiteON and BenQ), it doesn't support burned media testing, it doesn't support unburned media testing, (all BenQ features so far), it doesn't have the ability to "train" it's firmware (like the PX-716a!). It's just a standard DVD burner, that's not crap. The tool that checks the LG webpage for new firmware updates is a nifty feature I'll admit, but on the whole not THAT impressive.

As for testing media with A104, yup, I've burned 16x media with it. Not as much as I'd like to, but I didn't notice a huge improvement, so much as just better speed support on more media.

[LNahid2000]

the benq 1620 is an excellent burner. i bought it on DD's recommendation a couple weeks ago. wish i had waited though since its $10 cheaper at ncix this week.

[Chopramo]

thanks for the replied ppl.
great help

I am finally deciding to get the LG 4163B as its a decent one and also on sale at NCIX.
Plus almost all the burners have something or the other wrong with it.

Any comments?

if there is anything severe to worry abt the LG plz let me know and also if someone can tell me what kind of media will be compatible? I live in toronto so the cheapest media i can get is from CWO or Factory Direct like RIDATA and also VERBATAMIN etc...

THANKS AGAIN FOR ALL YOUR HELP EVERYONE.

:)

[Chopramo]

Hi can anyone throw some light on the PIONEER DVR-109 plz?

Is it better than LG and more compatible with more media? i heard. If not many replies will get the LG tomm morning.

[The Digital Dolphin]

Hi can anyone throw some light on the PIONEER DVR-109 plz?

Is it better than LG and more compatible with more media? i heard. If not many replies will get the LG tomm morning.

The Pioneer DVR-109 is much less compatible then the LG 4163B, and on the whole a major dissapointment to me. Still, it gives the best burns I've seen at 16x with Taiyo Yuden 16x DVD-Rs... but if it isn't Taiyo Yuden, or certain Verbatim, it has less remarkable results.

[WiZZLa]

I read that the Pioneer A09 was pretty good, but no where near a Plextor obviously. I wonder when/if the A10 will come out and what features it will have.

[Chopramo]

The Pioneer DVR-109 is much less compatible then the LG 4163B, and on the whole a major dissapointment to me. Still, it gives the best burns I've seen at 16x with Taiyo Yuden 16x DVD-Rs... but if it isn't Taiyo Yuden, or certain Verbatim, it has less remarkable results.

So finally then DD should i go for the LG or the Benq? Hope to get a reply soon. Want to buy it this weekend.

Finally down to 2.

any comments anyone? just to help me decide finally...
thanks

[itsyours]

So finally then DD should i go for the LG or the Benq? Hope to get a reply soon. Want to buy it this weekend.

Finally down to 2.

any comments anyone? just to help me decide finally...
thanks
Get the BenQ, I bought 2 already: so far so good. I'm going to buy a 3rd one.
The bitsetting is a major plus feature compares to LG. Oh! and remember buy the +R discs for it and you're done, happy and saved money. Flash it to retail region free V firmware and you have the second best of current DVD burners ( Plextor 6 is top ).

[Madcatmk2]

The BenQ DW1620 can have its' firmware ripped apart manually and have any firmware strategy swapped for any other, just like a LiteON, only UNLIKE a LiteON, you don't *NEED* to do it in order to get usable writing quality out of it. I don't think the NEC has that ability at this time (although in all fairness, I am not 100% sure).


It happened with the Nec 2500 and 3500 and now the 3520. You can edit copy or add writing descriptors on the media code you want. As long as you know the offsets for it.


Not to say anything bad about Herrie's hacks at all, but the Code Guys always seem to give more flexability with their hacks (like being able to customize a firmware yourself) whereas Herrie's tend to be one shot, take it or leave it, hacks.

There was one nec firmware editor not so long ago but it got removed from the public because of the practical problems it could create. Like a fake release that would destroy the drive.
Do you think there is only Herrie that hack nec firmwares? You forgot Quikee, Dee and Liggy.

[Madcatmk2]

bump

[spinbot]

Re: BenQ 1620 Drive

"This drive is VERY feature heavy, and has great user support, and incredible firmware support. More hackable then LiteON, and with more funky tools for testing media, both before and after burning!!"

I purchased one of these drives also, on the DD recommendation, however could someone direct me to what the "funky tools for testing media" are?

Also, I bought the OEM version, however I wouldn't know where to start with upgrading the firmware -- anyone know what needs to be done or where to find a "How To" online? If you screw up a firmware update, can you always go back to the original one you had?

Thanks for the help.

[ilfsoy]

I'm on my second BenQ 1620 in a few months and this one is apparently screwed now too. I'll be looking at a different brand when I'm in the market for new hardware.

As for the firmware it's readily available on the website and very easy to flash, but generally if something (like a power failure) occurs during the flash you're sol. I've flashed mine 4 times in 4 days trying to get it to properly recognize a blank DVD like it used to. I originally flashed straight from OEM to retail, but there is a few extra steps for the more cautious.

[The Digital Dolphin]

It happened with the Nec 2500 and 3500 and now the 3520. You can edit copy or add writing descriptors on the media code you want. As long as you know the offsets for it.


Hrm, I didn't know that. What software do you use?


There was one nec firmware editor not so long ago but it got removed from the public because of the practical problems it could create. Like a fake release that would destroy the drive.
Do you think there is only Herrie that hack nec firmwares? You forgot Quikee, Dee and Liggy.

True, I don't often think about their releases since they aren't nearly as popular (last I checked) and I don't think they do as much to fix the bugs in the firmware releases. I know the NEC 2500a would have been dead in the water if it weren't for Herrie!

[The Digital Dolphin]

Re: BenQ 1620 Drive

I purchased one of these drives also, on the DD recommendation, however could someone direct me to what the "funky tools for testing media" are?


Sure! Use Nero CD/DVD Speed, and BenQ's Q-Scan tool to check your media. It's one of the better testing drives on the market, although it's not perfect. Some discs that test fine will not be readable on other drives... but this is MUCH less of a problem then discs tested on LiteON (or Pioneer, or NEC) drives.


Also, I bought the OEM version, however I wouldn't know where to start with upgrading the firmware -- anyone know what needs to be done or where to find a "How To" online? If you screw up a firmware update, can you always go back to the original one you had?

Thanks for the help.

For firmware info, check out this site! It's the best :
http://dvdpro.club.st/firmware/BenQ_FW.htm

[Madcatmk2]

Hrm, I didn't know that. What software do you use?



True, I don't often think about their releases since they aren't nearly as popular (last I checked) and I don't think they do as much to fix the bugs in the firmware releases. I know the NEC 2500a would have been dead in the water if it weren't for Herrie!

First, i don't have the offset maps for the firmwares. If i had those i could use an hex editor. Dee did that for the 3500 and 3520 firmwares, changing a lot of stuff in it as copy descriptors to other media codes and modifing some to get faster results. Liggy added the mad dog 3520 bitsetting data to the new nec pi/pif scanning firmware before mad dog could get the hand of it and release it. Dee is now working to add some of the 3540 abilities to the 3520.

Second, Herrie's latest firmware for the 3500 is totally obsolete and he didn't made one for the 3520. Herrie's firmwares is pretty much inexistant now...
I don't know if hes helping some of the other firmware hackers or not.

[The Digital Dolphin]

First, i don't have the offset maps for the firmwares. If i had those i could use an hex editor. Dee did that for the 3500 and 3520 firmwares, changing a lot of stuff in it as copy descriptors to other media codes and modifing some to get faster results. Liggy added the mad dog 3520 bitsetting data to the new nec pi/pif scanning firmware before mad dog could get the hand of it and release it. Dee is now working to add some of the 3540 abilities to the 3520.

Second, Herrie's latest firmware for the 3500 is totally obsolete and he didn't made one for the 3520. Herrie's firmwares is pretty much inexistant now...
I don't know if hes helping some of the other firmware hackers or not.

Hrm, looks like I should pop by the NEC sections of RPC1.org again! ;)

Anyways, saying that you can switch the dri've's firmware strategies, and then saying you need to use a hex editor is a bit deceiving. The average person is NOT capable with a hex editor, and is much more likely to do harm then good. With LiteON's and BenQ's the task is VERY simple.

That's too bad about Herrie though... he was very good! Perhaps he's following >NIL:'s retirement plan?

[Chopramo]

Thanks for your help everyone, after a lot of reviews, a lot of suggestions, a lot of looking around and a LOT of help from you guys... I went for the LG4163B and i convinced my brother to get Benq 1620. I couldnt decide so went with both, he needed one too so i guess i can get the best of both DVD burners.

Thanks for all your help ppl. :)

[Madcatmk2]

Hrm, looks like I should pop by the NEC sections of RPC1.org again! ;)

Anyways, saying that you can switch the dri've's firmware strategies, and then saying you need to use a hex editor is a bit deceiving. The average person is NOT capable with a hex editor, and is much more likely to do harm then good. With LiteON's and BenQ's the task is VERY simple.

That's too bad about Herrie though... he was very good! Perhaps he's following >NIL:'s retirement plan?

Seems like the NEC sections of RPC1.org is pretty bad. I saw that >NIL is an administrator of the forums at RPC1.org. I don't know what do you mean about it?

Its fact that you said that "The BenQ DW1620 can have its' firmware ripped apart manually and have any firmware strategy swapped for any other," and i was answering to that and its true that you can rip the firmware strategies apart and modify it; where is the deception?
The fact that everybody can modify the firmware with an very simple editor could still kill the drive. I don't understand why you make people think otherwise.

I don't think that the firmwares are as buggy as the 2500 was.

What i found annoying about the benq drives was that you needed to switch firmwares in order to get better quality for some media codes. Did you added the optodisc strategy to the best TY firmware btw? :arrowl: (i am unsure as my knowledge of benq drives is as limited as yours for the nec ones)

[callous]

Hey Digital Dolphin, any news on the Benq 1640, in terms of reliability of writing CDs, and the possible pricing, and availability?

[The Digital Dolphin]

Hey Digital Dolphin, any news on the Benq 1640, in terms of reliability of writing CDs, and the possible pricing, and availability?

Nadda..... I'm still waiting on BenQ to send me the drive too :confused:

[Madcatmk2]

Bump

[The Digital Dolphin]

Seems like the NEC sections of RPC1.org is pretty bad. I saw that >NIL is an administrator of the forums at RPC1.org. I don't know what do you mean about it?

I meant that >NIL: is no longer making hacked firmwares. He has retired from it.


Its fact that you said that "The BenQ DW1620 can have its' firmware ripped apart manually and have any firmware strategy swapped for any other," and i was answering to that and its true that you can rip the firmware strategies apart and modify it; where is the deception?
The fact that everybody can modify the firmware with an very simple editor could still kill the drive. I don't understand why you make people think otherwise.

Well, I was trying to cater my response to a fairly noobish crowd here. When I said "manually" I meant you could chose (through the software) which strategy you want to replace, and which one you want to replace it with. I don't EXPECT anyone to have to pull out a hex editor to hack their drive.

As for the possability of killing a drive... it's possible to kill one by doing a LOT of things, and it doesn't require a hex editor, or a non-official firmware either. But using these custom softwares to create your own hacked firmware is much MUCH safer then using a hex editor... heck, I don't feel safe hex editing my own firmwares!


I don't think that the firmwares are as buggy as the 2500 was.

I wasn't trying to say they were... I was just going back to something I had some personal experience with.


What i found annoying about the benq drives was that you needed to switch firmwares in order to get better quality for some media codes. Did you added the optodisc strategy to the best TY firmware btw? :arrowl: (i am unsure as my knowledge of benq drives is as limited as yours for the nec ones)

To be honest, I have not PERSONALLY installed a hacked firmware for the BenQ DW1620 (other then hacking the drive once to accept the retail firmware from the OEM firmware). It's quite obvious that you know much more about NEC's newer drives then I do though! Which makes me glad to have you around :cheesygri

[Txiasaeia]

I haven't had *any* problems with my Pioneer 109, from cheap no-name media to Maxell. I don't know why others would be having problems, as it's *the* burner on the market right now.

[Madcatmk2]

Well, I was trying to cater my response to a fairly noobish crowd here. When I said "manually" I meant you could chose (through the software) which strategy you want to replace, and which one you want to replace it with. I don't EXPECT anyone to have to pull out a hex editor to hack their drive.

As for the possability of killing a drive... it's possible to kill one by doing a LOT of things, and it doesn't require a hex editor, or a non-official firmware either. But using these custom softwares to create your own hacked firmware is much MUCH safer then using a hex editor... heck, I don't feel safe hex editing my own firmwares!


I feel much safer that its me who know whats there and why and also that to see a fake release on the web is less probable. If i make a mistake i would be much less sad than if its someone else error.




To be honest, I have not PERSONALLY installed a hacked firmware for the BenQ DW1620 (other then hacking the drive once to accept the retail firmware from the OEM firmware). It's quite obvious that you know much more about NEC's newer drives then I do though! Which makes me glad to have you around :cheesygri

If i had one i would already made those changes long time ago. ;)

[callous]

1 more Q, Digital Dolphin, does the 1620 have problems reading scratched DVDs, or is it an avg reader? I know the nec2500 was total crap for reading anything that was scratched, and since the 1620 might well be my only reader and writer it would be best i knew now :|

Some guy on this forum also said a BENQ rep told him the 1620 cannot use DVD-r properly/well, is this true?

[2000fordfocus]

Pioneer or HP is the only way to go!!

[audit13]

Pioneer or HP is the only way to go!!

I agree because I have an HP 420i (Nec 2500a) and an HP 630i (Benq 1620). :)

[Madcatmk2]

And also because the Pionner 108 and 109 have Nec processors! :lol:

And nah, you guys should read complete reviews before choosing an drive.
It all depends on what you want. The Benq drive offer the best possibilites for those who aren't sure what to buy.

[The Digital Dolphin]

1 more Q, Digital Dolphin, does the 1620 have problems reading scratched DVDs, or is it an avg reader? I know the nec2500 was total crap for reading anything that was scratched, and since the 1620 might well be my only reader and writer it would be best i knew now :|

Some guy on this forum also said a BENQ rep told him the 1620 cannot use DVD-r properly/well, is this true?

It's not a bad reader of scratched discs... but I'd say no more then a little above average perhaps. I think the Pioneer DVR-106 is still considered the #1 forgiving drive for damaged DVD media (not CD!).

As for the BenQ DW1620 not being able to burn DVD-Rs properly... that's completely untrue! I have some very happy looking Acro Circle 8x DVD-Rs and Taiyo Yuden DVD-Rs that would like to have a word with that BenQ rep! (I'm sure my contact at BenQ Taiwan would ALSO like to have a word with them!). The problem with the BenQ DW1620 is it CANNOT burn Prodisc DVD-Rs. BenQ is aware of this, and they have told me it's not resolvable between the disc and the specific burner. Something about the way Prodisc makes the media. It might be possible for it to be fixed in the DW1640 however.

[callous]

It's not a bad reader of scratched discs... but I'd say no more then a little above average perhaps. I think the Pioneer DVR-106 is still considered the #1 forgiving drive for damaged DVD media (not CD!).

As for the BenQ DW1620 not being able to burn DVD-Rs properly... that's completely untrue! I have some very happy looking Acro Circle 8x DVD-Rs and Taiyo Yuden DVD-Rs that would like to have a word with that BenQ rep! (I'm sure my contact at BenQ Taiwan would ALSO like to have a word with them!). The problem with the BenQ DW1620 is it CANNOT burn Prodisc DVD-Rs. BenQ is aware of this, and they have told me it's not resolvable between the disc and the specific burner. Something about the way Prodisc makes the media. It might be possible for it to be fixed in the DW1640 however.

How likely do you think the 1640 will be around $100 cdn + tax by mid june or is this way optimistically too low of a price point at that time.

I am wondernig if I should go for the 1620 at ncix which is selling for $57 or wait for the 1640.

[Warlock]

How likely do you think the 1640 will be around $100 cdn + tax ...


!
At that price, and considering current DVD burners run around $65.00 + taxes,
I would expect something like a 5 years warranty and zero compatibility issues with any media!

[The Digital Dolphin]

How likely do you think the 1640 will be around $100 cdn + tax by mid june or is this way optimistically too low of a price point at that time.

I am wondernig if I should go for the 1620 at ncix which is selling for $57 or wait for the 1640.

Hrm... Hard to say! After looking at the selling price of the drive in the markets where it's already been released, I would say that a price of $100-$125 would be quite possible. Still, we might get cheaper prices here in Canada, since everyone pretty much gives the hardware away in North America ;)

This would also fit in quite well with the fact that the PX-740 (likely an OEM of the BenQ DW1640) will be around $125-$145 in Canada.

Well, it should be interesting to see what happens regardless :cheesygri

[callous]

I just bought the 1620 from ncix. I decided waiting till end of june of even middle of February with a price that is still to be determined probably isnt worth doing.

I have also been reading on the forums about the 1640 that the europeans have had for several weeks. Nobody is jumping up and down saying it's way superior than the 1620.

Thanks for answering my questions, everyone!

[Chopramo]

Hi i just recieved my drives and i wanted to know something else if anyone can help me.. which media is best to burn downloaded DVD's on? and also is compatible on LG4163B. DVD -R or +R and some basics on both types.

I am new to DVD burning so i need some help here. thanks

if u can also provide some links it will also be helpful.

:)

[The Digital Dolphin]

I just bought the 1620 from ncix. I decided waiting till end of june of even middle of February with a price that is still to be determined probably isnt worth doing.

I have also been reading on the forums about the 1640 that the europeans have had for several weeks. Nobody is jumping up and down saying it's way superior than the 1620.

Thanks for answering my questions, everyone!

No one has reviewed it yet... so most the things people want to know about haven't been tested. Like CD Recording quality.

[i6s1]

For firmware info, check out this site! It's the best :
http://dvdpro.club.st/firmware/BenQ_FW.htm

Is there any advantage to the Retail FW over OEM? If so, how do you do it? I'm using G7V9.

[The Digital Dolphin]

Hi i just recieved my drives and i wanted to know something else if anyone can help me.. which media is best to burn downloaded DVD's on? and also is compatible on LG4163B. DVD -R or +R and some basics on both types.

I am new to DVD burning so i need some help here. thanks

if u can also provide some links it will also be helpful.

:)

Acro Circle 8x DVD-Rs work very well. Taiyo Yuden 4x, 8x and 16x DVD-Rs, Taiyo Yuden 8x DVD+Rs. Prodisc works ok on it, but why take the chance that it'll degrade too quickly.

Does anyone even USE Ritek anymore?

[spinbot]

Is there any advantage to the Retail FW over OEM? If so, how do you do it? I'm using G7V9.

In the same situation as you -- not sure which firmware to use. Mine currently has G7H9. Hopefully someone whom has the same drive will voice their opinion on which to go to. I'm pretty sure you at least flash an OEM drive with Retail firmware, but again, need someone experienced at this to pipe in!

[i6s1]

In the same situation as you -- not sure which firmware to use. Mine currently has G7H9. Hopefully someone whom has the same drive will voice their opinion on which to go to. I'm pretty sure you at least flash an OEM drive with Retail firmware, but again, need someone experienced at this to pipe in!

I've tried to do a straight flash but it won't let me. I get the impression to have to do something to the drive to make it work, but I don't know what. I can't find anything on the page DD linked to.

[Warlock]

Hi i just recieved my drives and i wanted to know something else if anyone can help me.. which media is best to burn downloaded DVD's on? and also is compatible on LG4163B. DVD -R or +R and some basics on both types...


?
The LG GSA-4163B should be compatible with both DVD-R and DVD+R discs.

No issues encountered with so far with the following brands: Maxell, Sony, Ritek, Taiyo Yuden...
However, the Maxell DVD-R (made in Japan) 4x discs were not compatible 2 of the older Toshiba home DVD players that I tested on. Played back fine on more current DVD home players and of course, computer DVD ROM drives.

EDIT: Forgot to mention, tried some generic, no name brand, Optodisc? DVD-R discs and they would only burn at 2x instead of the rated 4x.

[The Digital Dolphin]

I've tried to do a straight flash but it won't let me. I get the impression to have to do something to the drive to make it work, but I don't know what. I can't find anything on the page DD linked to.

You need to download the flasher from the website I linked to, and the firmware you want to install's .cvt file (which is the firmware in a special format for the flasher you just downloaded).

If you have the G7x9 firmware, then use a newer G7x9 firmware... G7V9 is the latest, but I suggest using 'P' or later (it goes alphabetically, but I don't think there IS a G7P9, so just use the next one up that you can find). If you don't use a G7x9 firmware, then use the B7x9 firmware series. Again, you want to use a B7P9 firmware or later.

[Chopramo]

?
The LG GSA-4163B should be compatible with both DVD-R and DVD+R discs.

No issues encountered with so far with the following brands: Maxell, Sony, Ritek, Taiyo Yuden...
However, the Maxell DVD-R (made in Japan) 4x discs were not compatible 2 of the older Toshiba home DVD players that I tested on. Played back fine on more current DVD home players and of course, computer DVD ROM drives.

EDIT: Forgot to mention, tried some generic, no name brand, Optodisc? DVD-R discs and they would only burn at 2x instead of the rated 4x.


Thanks for your reply, really gave me an idea abt what basic media to look for.
i wanted to ask u and anyone else who can answere me.. Are these disks from Factory Direct worth it? they are cheap and i can pick them up locally. Are they any good and dependable? do reply thanks
Factory Direct (http://www.factorydirect.ca/catalog/product_spec.php?pcode=DV2508)
Factory Direct (http://www.factorydirect.ca/catalog/product_spec.php?pcode=OP0825)

[The Digital Dolphin]

Thanks for your reply, really gave me an idea abt what basic media to look for.
i wanted to ask u and anyone else who can answere me.. Are these disks from Factory Direct worth it? they are cheap and i can pick them up locally. Are they any good and dependable? do reply thanks
Factory Direct (http://www.factorydirect.ca/catalog/product_spec.php?pcode=DV2508)
Factory Direct (http://www.factorydirect.ca/catalog/product_spec.php?pcode=OP0825)

I know nothing about the first one at all.

The second one is just a standard Optodisc Generic DVD-R. It depends on if it's the Optodisc 'B Grade' disc or if it's the lower 'D Grade' media also known to be sold within Canada. I don't know who's supplying Factory Direct, so I can't say for sure. Sorry!

Edit: The 'B Grade' stuff is ok for day to day use, but I wouldn't recommend it for anything important. the lower grade (D Grade) stuff is even shorter term. Depending on your drive, you might need to burn them at 4x also.

[insanity]

This thread has been really useful since I'm in the market for a burner as well. After reading this, I'm pretty much set on the BENQ 1620 or the LG 4163B.

My question: Can someone suggest a decently priced enclosure for this that is working well for them. I really want to use this externally. Please also suggest where I can buy the enclosure for.

Thanks.

[spinbot]

If you have the G7x9 firmware, then use a newer G7x9 firmware... G7V9 is the latest, but I suggest using 'P' or later (it goes alphabetically, but I don't think there IS a G7P9, so just use the next one up that you can find).

The link to the G7P9 on that site takes you to BenQ's website, however as G7P9 is not the lastest release, they don't make it available. I did manage to find a copy of it elsewhere on the Internet.

BenQ has version G7V9. I recall in another post that you said for most compatible, use the "P", however for best results use "U". Don't they just build on older releases, thus later version would have all the compatibility of older versions, plus added compatibility and improved performance.

It may be media related, but I find it odd that my Lite-On 4X drive produces more compatible copies with Home theatre DVD players than my BenQ 1620. The burns I made with the 1620 work perfectly on my one player, however not at all on my other or a couple of my friends. Oddly enough, I am using BenQ media on a BenQ drive and only burning at 4X.