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You are here: MacNN Forums > Hardware - Troubleshooting and Discussion > Consumer Hardware & Components > External DVD Burner Questions

External DVD Burner Questions
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Mac Enthusiast
Join Date: Mar 2004
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Dec 24, 2004, 03:13 PM
 
Hi,

Okay, I have decided to lay down some bills for a good dvd burner (the internal ones in my g5 (4x) and powerbook (4x) just aren't cutting it anymore.

I think I will go external so it can be used with other computers. I think I have narrowed it down to LACIE's line of burners.

What's the difference between the d2 line and the Porsche line. I can get the 16x double layer PORSCHE model for less than $150, but the d2 model with similar specs, costs about $30 more. Is the d2 line that much better?

Also, is 16x what I should be getting? When I got bestbu, compusa, circuit city, etc. I only see dvd-r's that can take 8x speed. In other words, will I get to enjoy the 16x speed?

How about double layer, is that very vital. Aren't double layer dvd's very expensive? Do you think I should just get a basic burner (not double layer), and then wait for the future?

Please let me know, I think I will be making a purchase very soon.

Thanks!
     
Forum Regular
Join Date: Oct 2003
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Dec 24, 2004, 05:17 PM
 
If I were spending the my money I would jump on the Dual Layer. Thats alot of data on 1 disk. When DVD-R's came out you could get a pack of 5 for $50....

Spend the $$ and get the best you can, 16x, Dual Layer. Mac sales seems to have some good deals. After the Holidays I believe I'll be getting mine from there....

All these options today will be standard in a could months.
     
Dedicated MacNNer
Join Date: Dec 2004
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Jan 16, 2005, 11:57 AM
 
Dvd Films are dual layer correct? If I wanted to backup a movie could I just make a disc image of it and then burn it in toast? Wouldn't it be an exact copy of the dvd movie? I think Popcorn only supports single layer burns...

What other cool stuff can I do with my dual layer burner? iDVD, data backups...
     
Grizzled Veteran
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: New Zealand
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Jan 16, 2005, 03:17 PM
 
Virtually all DVD films will be dual-layer (DVD9). If you want to check if they are, look for a "layer transition may trigger a slight pause" not on the back of the dvd.
You may find that single layer media will be cheaper than dual-layer media right now.
Oh yeah, and I would recommend getting a dvd+rw/-rw combo - it's just nice to be able to burn to both formats.
MBP 15" C2D 2.2GHz 4.0GB 500GB@5400
iPhone 4 32GB Black
     
Mac Elite
Join Date: Jul 2003
Location: Body in London, mind elsewhere
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Jan 17, 2005, 06:01 AM
 
on the question about the casings, the d2 range are metal and the Porsche are made of plastic.
Personally i think the d2 range are better made and will stand up to being moved around. but if weight is an issue get the Porsche designed one.
     
   
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