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Appeared on: Thursday, November 10, 2005
Pioneer DVR-110


1. Introduction

Several months ago, Pioneer released the DVR-110D, a latest technology DVD recorder, with max burning speeds for all formats. Now, as we had stated back then, Pioneer has released an upgrade of the 110D, the DVR-110, which apart from retaining the same writing speeds, is also DVD-RAM writing enabled. Hence, the DVR-110 offers writing support for Dual & Double Layer media types at 8X speed, along with 16X writing for DVD-R/+R, 6X writing for DVD-RW, 8X writing for +RW and 5x writing for RAM.

In this review, we will be looking into the writing capabilities of this drive for all media formats and its DVD error correction capabilities. CD error correction tests and protected media tests have been omitted since upon checking, we found them to be the same as with the previous model.

We will be posting the results of the DVR-110 next to those of those of the LG-4167B and Plextor 740A drives, both latest releases and DVD-RAM enabled (LG-4167B).

- Features

- Precision Recording Technology : Just as the DVR-110D, the DVR-110 features the Precision Recording Technology, which utilizes an auto-adjustable writing technique to enable recording under the best conditions for each disc characteristic at all times. This technology, first introduced in the DVR-A06, enables the DVR-110 to achieve optimal initial writing performance and helps to minimize the normal deterioration of re-recordable discs due to repeated writing. As a result, the quality for repeatedly used DVD-RW discs is up to 10 times better than previous writers.
- Multi-format compatibility : The DVR-110 supports all widely used media formats, including DVD-RAM media (both read and write functions supported).
- "Performance Adjusting Firmware" plays back Music and Video with up to 75% less audible noise - ideal for living room settings.
- Available in BEIGE, BLACK & SILVER, Beige (DVR-110) and Black (DVR-110BK) models only in Europe.

The DVR-110/110D's "Performance Adjusting Firmware" intelligently switches between "Quiet" and "Performance" modes, offering "quiet performance" for enjoying audio and video, yet offering "maximum performance" when conducting data transfers.


"Quiet Mode" (Low speed settings) for Audio CD playback, which switches to
"Performance Mode" (High speed settings) for Audio CD to HDD file transfers.

- Specifications

DVD DVD-R (Ver 2.0 for General disc only), DVD-R DL (Dual Layer, Ver 3.0), DVD-RW (Ver 1,0, 1.1 & 1.2), DVD+R (Ver 1.0, 1.1 & 1.2), +R DL (Double Layer Ver 1.0), +RW (Ver 1.1 & 1.2), +RW High Speed (Ver 1.0), DVD-RAM (Ver 2.0 & 2.1, non-cartridge version)
CD CD-R (Type 74, 650MB / Type 80, 700MB), CD-RW (including HS, US, US+)
Read Support
DVD DVD-ROM (Single and Dual Layer), DVD-RAM (Ver 2.0 & 2.1 non-cartridge version), DVD-R, DVD-R DL (Dual Layer), DVD-RW, +R, +R DL (Double Layer), +RW
CD CD-ROM(Mode 1), CD-ROM XA Mode 2 (form1, form 2), CD-Text, CD-DA, CD-Extra, Video CD, PhotoCD (Single & Multiple session), CD-Text, CD-R, CD-RW (including HS, US, US+)
Write Speed
DVD-R 16x, 12x, 8x, 6x, 4x, 2x, 1x
DVD-RW 6x, 4x, 2x, 1x
DVD-R DL 8x, 6x, 4x, 2x
DVD+R 16x, 12x, 8x, 6x, 4x. 2.4x
DVD+RW 8x, 6x, 4x, 2.4x
DVD+R DL 8x, 6x, 4x, 2.4x
DVD-RAM 5x, 3x, 2x
8cm DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW with Adapter 2x, 1x
CD-R 40x, 32x, 24x, 16x, 10x
CD-RW 32x, 24x, 20x, 16x, 10x, 4x
Read Speed
DVD-ROM (single) Max 16x CAV
DVD-ROM (dual) Max 12x CAV
DVD-R, DVD-R DL, DVD-RW Max 12x CAV
DVD+R, DVD+R DL, DVD+RW Max 12x CAV
DVD-RAM Max 5x CLV
DVD-Video (with CSS, Single / Dual Layer) 5x CAV
CD-ROM, CD-R Max 40x CAV
CD-RW Max 32x CAV
Video CD 9.3x CAV
Installation
Mounting Orientation Horizontal and Vertical
Interface ATAPI (ATA-5, SFF-80980 Ver.5)
IDE Data Transfer Mode PIO Mode 4, Multi Word DMA Mode 2, Ultra DMA Mode 2, Ultra DMA Mode 4
Data Buffer (size) 2 MBytes (Write, Read)
Dimensions (W x H x D) 148mm x 42.3mm x 180mm

- Specific application program(s) that support above format(s) required.
- Supported media required for specific DVD & CD writing speeds.
- To perform DVD writing at 12x or 16x speeds, use Pioneer-designated disc media.

As Pioneer suggests "...To achieve the specified writing and reading performance it is important that the DVR-110 is connected to the IDE port via an 80 way ribbon cable and that the IDE port is at least UDMA 66 or above...".

The drive does not support Mount Rainier and it uses the well known RPC II region control, allowing a user to change the drive's region at most 5 times. Below are the drive's main specs as given by DVDInfoPro, NeroInfoTool and VSO inspector:

- The Drive

The front of the drive is similar to the DVR-110D with different logos this time. The most visible difference is the MULTI recorder logo placed in the middle of the tray which indicates that the drive also supports DVD-RAM writing.

On the rear, there's nothing new and you can find the analogue audio output, the IDE selection pins, the IDE connector and the power input. As Pioneer suggests, the use of an 80pin IDE ribbon cable is required to get max results from the DVR-110 drive.

The label on the drive, top view.

- Inside view

If you take a look inside the DVR-110 drive, you'll find that it has the same parts/chipsets as the DVR-110D.

- Installation

The device was connected to our test PC and was identified as "PIONEER DVD-RW DVR-110" under WinXP. The drive came with the 1.22 firmware installed and since no further releases have been made, this was the one used for this review.

Now that we've covered the basics, let us move on to the test results and check the performance from this drive.


2. Reading Tests

- DVD Format

As discussed on the previous page, the DVR-110 has the same capabilities as the previous model, the DVR-110D regarding the CD format reading tests and so, we will be testing only the DVD portion of the test suite. Using Pressed Single and Dual layer DVD media, as well as DVD±R-RW media, we measured the reading speed capabilities for the DVD format. The results are shown in the following graphs.

All three drives support up to 16X reading speed with SL DVD media. The GSA-4167B drive proved to be the fastest with the review drive following close behind.

The two layers of a PTP DVD-ROM disc are read sequentially with the drive starting reading from the inner part of the disc, which is the beginning of each layer, progressing towards the outer range, for each layer. Max supported speed is 12X in this case. The DVR-110 managed to achieve fastest reading speed, although speed differences are negligible.

The graph shown above indicates the reading performance of the drive with OTP dual layer media. The first layer of an OTP dual layer DVD-ROM is read exactly the same way as the first layer of the PTP disc we tested previously. The difference here is the reading strategy of the second layer of the disc. The beginning of the second layer is located in the outer part of the disc, so the drive starts reading from the outer tracks towards the inner part of the disc. Once more, the Pioneer drive holds first place.

With both write once and re-writable media, the reviewed drive came second, with the Plextor 740 reporting the highest reading speeds for both formats.

As with the DVR-110D, the 110 is riplock free and hence achieves great ripping speeds, reporting an average of 13837Kb/s. Great DVD ripping.

- DVD-RAM

The DVR-110 can read DVD-RAM media at up to 5X(CLV) speed where the previous model could read only up to 2X. We can see the reading strategy of the 110 while using a Maxell DVD-RAM disc and Nero CD-DVD Speed. Clicking on the image below will take you to a full CD Speed screenshot.

-Appendix

Nero CD-DVD Speed Graphs


3. DVD Error Correction Tests

In the following tests we examined the DVD reading capabilities of the drive with scratched / defective DVD media. For the tests we used CDVD Benchmark and Nero CDSpeed. The reference test media comes from ALMEDIO.

- Single Layer media

ABEX TDR-821

This is a single sided, single layer DVD-ROM with a 4.7GB capacity, and its surface has an artificial scratch of dimensions varying from 0.4 to 3.0 mm.

The following transfer rate graph comes from the CDVD Benchmark v1.21 transfer rate test.

The first test of the DVD error correction series was completed successfully, with a smooth line and a 16X max reading speed. No errors were reported.

ABEX TDR-825

This is also a single sided, single layer DVD-ROM of 4.7GB capacity. The data structure of the disc is exactly the same as that of the TDR-821, with the difference that there are no scratches on it but instead, defective areas of dimensions ranging from 0.5 to 1.1 mm.

There are also fingerprints sized between 65 and 75 micrometers.

Same performance here, this time with two defective areas on one layer and the drive made quick work reading past both areas without any reported errors or drops in speed.

- Dual Layer media

ABEX TDR-841

This is an 8.5GB dual layer, single sided DVD-ROM disc with artificial scratches of dimensions ranging from 0.4 to 3.0mm, on both layers.

The max supported reading speed for DL media with the 110 is 12X as reported in the manufacturers specs. Both layers were scanned over with ease and no errors were encountered whatsoever.

ABEX TDR-845

The disc is a single sided, dual layer DVD-ROM disc with a capacity of 8.5GB. The only difference between the TDR-845 and the TDR-841 is that the first includes defective areas and fingerprints.

The dimensions of the defective areas range from 0.5 to 1.1 mm and the fingerprints are sized from 65 to 75 micrometers.

In this case, reading over the first layer produced some minor speed drops as can be seen by the sporadic yellow dots. The second layer was read much easier by the drive, while overall, the 110 managed to read over both defective areas/layers with no major costs in speed. Again, the max reported speed was 12X.

ABEX TDV-541

The TDV-541 is a single sided, dual layer DVD-VIDEO disc, with a capacity of 8.5GB.The disc is based upon the TDV-540 series which is designed for inspection and adjustment of DVD-VIDEO players. The disc checks the layer switch operation from layer 0 to layer 1 and also includes test pictures and test signals for DVD sound files.

The current TDV-541 also checks the error correcting capabilities of the drive and includes scratches from 0.4 to 3.0 mm.

Even though the drive managed to read over the defective areas on the test media, during the second layer, the reading speed was reduced substantially.

ABEX TDV-545

The TDV-545 disc is based on the TDV-540 series. It is a single sided, dual layer DVD-VIDEO disc with a capacity of 8.5GB.

The TDV-545 includes artificial black dots on the data surface, sized from 0.4 to 1.0 mm. It also has 65 - 75 micrometer fingerprints.

The previous model 110D, did not manage to achieve a full reading of this test media. With the upgraded 110, this media, as we can see from the above graph, was read flawlessly.

Overall great DVD error correction, while the drive will read almost every defective inserted media.


4. CD Recording Tests

The drive supports 10x CLV (1.50 MB/sec), 16x CLV (2.40 MB/sec), 24x PCAV / Zone CLV (3.60 MB/sec), 32x PCAV / Zone CLV (4.80 MB/sec), 40x CAV (6.00 MB/sec) writing speeds.

The writing strategy of the DVR-110 with CD-R and US-RW media is the same as that of the DVR-110D.

- CD-R Recording Times

We created an 80min data compilation with Nero Burning Rom and recorded it on a 700MB disc. The writing performance varies according to the inserted media. Below is a chart demonstrating all recording times with various media.

Fastest burn was accomplished while using TY 48X CD-R media, burned at 40X. The rest of the media were burned at 32X.

- Other features

The drive can overburn only up to 82mins:

- CD-RW Format

The drive supports both the HS-RW and US-RW formats. With RW media, 4x CLV, 10x CLV, 16x CLV, 20x ZCLV, 24x Z CLV and 32x ZCLV writing speeds are available.

- CD-RW Mount Rainier

The drive doesn't support the Mount Rainier feature.


5. C1/C2 Errors Measurements

We measured the C1 / C2 error rate on the recorded discs we burned at the maximum supported writing speed of 40X. The software we used is PleXTools Professional v2.25, and more specifically the built-in Q-Check utility. The reader was the Plextor PX-716A (firmware v1.08).

- BenQ 80min 52X @ 32X

- Intenso 80min 52X @ 32X

- MMore 80min 52X @ 32X

- Traxdata 80min 52X @ 32X

- TY 80min 48X @ 40X

- Summary

According to Plextools, the CD writing quality is high with all inserted media. In all cases, the reported error levels are low while in the case of BenQ and Traxdata media, some C2 were reported. As always, we will also be measuring the burned CD media with the Almedio CDX test system for further quality investigation.

- Appendix

- Media ID codes

Media Label Manufacturer Name Lead Out TIme
BenQ 52X Ritek 79m59s70f
Intenso 52X Prodisc 79m59s71f
MMore 52X Moser Baer India 79m59s74f
Traxdata 52X Ritek 79m59s70f
TY 80min 48X Taiyo Yuden 79m59s72f

6. Writing Quality - Clover Systems Tests

The Clover Systems CDX Compact Disc Analyzer is a high-speed tool to quantitatively measure the quality of a CD. It will analyze CD-DA, CD-ROM, CD-ROM XA, CD-I, CD-R, Photo-CD, Enhanced CD and CD-RW discs at 4X, 8X, 24X, 32X or 40X speed. It effectively measures disc quality by examining the quantity and severity of CIRC errors generated during playback. It also provides the capability to measure signal parameters related to pit geometry, such as asymmetry and reflectivity. Together, all these bits of information provide a thorough analysis of disc quality. The Clover Systems Analyzers can also perform various format-checking tests on data discs, and do bit-for-bit data comparison on all types of CDs. All tests are carried out at the maximum speed of 40X.

CIRC error correction uses two principles to detect and correct errors. The first is redundancy (extra information is added, which gives an extra chance to read the disc), and the second is interleaving (data is distributed over a relatively large physical area). The CIRC error correction used in CD players uses two stages of error correction, the well known C1 and C2, with de-interleaving of the data between the stages.

The error type E11 means one bad symbol was corrected in the C1 stage. E21means two bad symbols were corrected in the C1 stage. E31 means that there were three or more bad symbols at the C1 stage. This block is uncorrectable at the C1 stage, and is passed to the C2 stage. Respectively, E12 means one bad symbol was corrected in the C2 stage and E22 means two bad symbols were corrected in the C2 stage. E32 means that there were three or more bad symbols in one block at the C2 stage, and therefore this error is not correctable.

BLER (Block Error Rate) is defined as the number of data blocks per second that contain detectable errors, at the input of the C1 decoder. Since this is the most general measurement of the quality of a disc, you will find BLER graphs for all media tested below. If you click on the images you can see a more detailed table, indicating error levels. The Red Book specification (IEC 908) calls for a maximum BLER of 220 per second averaged over ten seconds. Discs with higher BLER are likely to produce uncorrectable errors. Al low BLER shows that the system as a whole is performing well, and the pit geometry is good. However, BLER only tells us how many errors were generated per second, and it does not tell us anything about the severity of those errors.

- Summary

According to the Clover System CDX test results, the TY and MMore media managed to get a "pass", while the other three media, failed due to high error values. However, none of the tested media reported E32 errors which is rather good.

- Appendix

Media Label
Manufacturer Name
Lead Out TIme
BenQ 52X
Ritek
79m59s70f
Intenso 52X Prodisc 79m59s71f
MMore 52X Moser Baer India 79m59s74f
Traxdata 52X
Ritek
79m59s70f
TY 80min 48X
Taiyo Yuden
79m59s72f

7. DVD Recording Tests

- Writing Performance

The Pioneer DVR-110 supports 16X CAV, 12x ZCLV, 8x ZCLV, 6X ZCLV and 4XZCLV for both DVD±R media. Below is the supported burning speed reported by Nero upon media insertion.

By using Nero CD-DVD Speed with DVD-R and DVD+R media, we are able to see the supported writing strategy for the 16X DVD±R media and DVD±R DL media as well as for DVD-RAM media.

- DVD+R media @ 16X

- DVD-R media @ 16X

- DVD+R DL media @ 8X

- DVD-R DL media @ 8X

- DVD-RAM media @ 5X

- Burning Tests

We burned 4315MB of data on various DVD±R, DVD±RW media. We used the maximum allowed writing speed for each disc.

- DVD-R/-RW media

Most media were burned at their named speeds, with some exceptions (Traxdata and Prodisc 16X media were burned at 12X), while the TY and Datawrite 8X media were oversped at 12X. Note also that the Optodisc 16X media is not supported by the manufacturer's media list, and was burned at 4X max speed. Best burn in terms of writing time, came with the MKM 16X media burned in 6:02mins.

- DVD+R/+RW media

Using DVD+R media, most 16X certified media were not burned at their designated speed. Only two out of seven media were burned at 16X, while with 8X media, some overspeeding at 12X took place.

- Comparison with other drives

Comparing the writing times of the 110 drive with the other two drives, the Pioneer was the slowest by a few seconds with write once media. With Re-Writable media and DVD+RW in specific, the 110 burned the 8X+RW media at 2X max speed, hence the 1009 seconds reported.

- DVD Overburning Tests

Using Nero CD-DVD Speed, we tested to see if the drive can overburn using DVD+R and DVD-R media. Unfortunately, the drive does not support overburning.

- DVD+MRW Tests

The drive doesn't support the Mount Rainier feature.


8. CDSpeed/PlexTools Scans - Page 1

In order to test the writing quality and readability of the burned media we used two readers 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 be taken not as the absolute criteria of the burning quality, but as an indication level.

16X DVD-R Writing Speed

- BenQ 16X DVD-R @ 16X

- Verbatim 16X DVD-R @ 16X

- Summary

According to CD-Speed measurements, the burned media reported rather low PIE errors burns, while CDSpeed reported average quality.


9. CDSpeed/PlexTools Scans - Page 2

In order to test the writing quality and readability of the burned media we used two readers 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 be taken not as the absolute criteria of the burning quality, but as an indication level.

12X DVD-R Writing Speed

- Prodisc 16X DVD-R @ 12X

- Traxdata 16X DVD-R @ 12X

- TY 8X DVD-R @ 12X

- Maxell 8X DVD-R @ 12X

- Datawrite 8X DVD-R @ 12X

- Summary

At 12X burning speed, the Pioneer DVR-110 manages to achieve excellent performance as was reported by both the Plextools and CDSpeed utilities. Low error levels and smooth graphs...


10. CDSpeed/PlexTools Scans - Page 3

In order to test the writing quality and readability of the burned media we used two readers 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 be taken not as the absolute criteria of the burning quality, but as an indication level.

8X DVD-R Writing Speed

- BenQ 8X DVD-R @ 8X

- Bulkpaq 8X DVD-R @ 8X

- MMore 8X DVD-R @ 8X

- Optodisc 8X DVD-R @ 8X

- Prodisc 8X DVD-R @ 8X

- Ridisc(Blue) 8X DVD-R @ 8X

- Ridisc(Red) 8X DVD-R @ 8X

- Traxdata 8X DVD-R @ 8X

- Optodisc 16X DVD-R @ 4X

- Summary

The writing quality at 8X with DVD-R is good. Some minor speed drops in the CDSpeed graphs with specific media cannot mar the overall performance.


11. CDSpeed/PlexTools Scans - Page 4

In order to test the writing quality and readability of the burned media we used two readers 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 be taken not as the absolute criteria of the burning quality, but as an indication level.

16X DVD+R Writing Speed

- BenQ 16X DVD+R @ 16X

- Verbatim 16X DVD+R @ 16X

- Summary

Using 16X DVD+R media, the drive managed to produce excellent burns, with low PIE errors, far below the 280 limit, and smooth CDSpeed reading graphs.


12. CDSpeed/PlexTools Scans - Page 5

In order to test the writing quality and readability of the burned media we used two readers 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 be taken not as the absolute criteria of the burning quality, but as an indication level.

12X DVD+R Writing Speed

- Datawrite 8X DVD+R @ 12X

- Maxell 8X DVD+R @ 12X

- MMore 16X DVD+R @ 12X

- Prodisc 16X DVD+R @ 12X

- Ricoh 16X DVD+R @ 12X

- TY 8X DVD+R @ 12X

- Summary

At 12X burning speed, the 110 once more produced very good quality burnings. Best burn came with the TY 8X media, overspeeding at 12X.


13. CDSpeed/PlexTools Scans - Page 6

In order to test the writing quality and readability of the burned media we used two readers 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 be taken not as the absolute criteria of the burning quality, but as an indication level.

8X DVD+R Writing Speed

- BeAll 8X DVD+R @ 8X

- BenQ 8X DVD+R @ 6X

- CMC 16X DVD+R @ 8X

- MMore 8X DVD+R @ 8X

- Optodisc 8X DVD+R @ 8X

- Prodisc 8X DVD+R @ 8X

- Ricoh 8X DVD+R @ 8X

- Ridisc 16X DVD+R @ 8X

- Traxdata 8X DVD+R @ 8X

- Summary

At 8X burning speed, we again had similar results, those of good quality with almost all media burned. Best burn in this case, came with the Ridisk 16X media, burned at 8X.


14. CDSpeed/PlexTools Scans - Page 7

In order to test the writing quality and readability of the burned media we used two readers 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 be taken not as the absolute criteria of the burning quality, but as an indication level.

DVD±RW Writing Speed

- MKM 8X DVD+RW @ 2.4X

- Traxdata 6X DVD-RW @ 6X

- Verbatim 6X DVD-RW @ 6X

- Summary

The quality is good with RW media, however further improvement with specific media are welcome since we had to repeat the burning with the Traxdata disc which was unreadable after the first burn.


15. Writing Quality - Almedio AEC-1000

The AEC-1000 consists of a DVD Drive and the "ALChecker" error measurement application which can check the written data quality. The application is capable of 1X CLV measurement as well as 4X CLV on DVD-Video/ROM and finalized DVD+R/-R media.

There are three measurement modes:

The checking status is shown graphically in real time while you can save the error graph at the end of the test. The reported errors are the PI and the UncPO. In the case of PI, it counts the number of rows corrected by the PI error correction in each group of eight consecutive ECC blocks. In the case of UncPO, it counts the number of ECC blocks in which more than one byte is uncorrectable in eight consecutive ECC blocks. For our quality scans, we set for 1X CLV and Fine Mode which is the slowest and with the safest results. Also, we chose to measure all the media burned at the maximum available writing speed, namely 16X.

- BenQ 16X DVD-R @ 16X

- Traxdata 16X DVD-R @ 12X

- Verbatim 16X DVD-R @ 16X

- MMore 16X DVD+R @ 12X

- Ridisk 16X DVD+R @ 8X

- Verbatim 16X DVD+R @ 16X

As reported by ALChecker, all media are of good burn quality, with the best case that of MMore media.


16. DVD+R DL - Page 1

We burned some DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL discs with data content. For this task we used "Create Data Disc" from Nero CDSpeed in order to fully burn the discs.

Traxdata DVD+R DL 2.4X @ 2.4X

The drive started burning the media at 2.32X and maxed out at 2.44X with an average of 2.37X using CLV writing strategy. The burn ended after 45:11 mins.

Verbatim DVD+R DL 2.4X @ 8X

The test started at 6X and maxed out at 8.01X reporting an average speed of 7.02X. The test ended after 17:50mins.

Traxdata DVD-R DL 4X @ 2.4X

Once more, same performance with Traxdata DVD+R DL. The test started at 1.56X and maxed out at 2X, reporting an average speed of 1.97X and a completion time of 55mins.

Verbatim DVD-R DL 4X @ 8X

Using CLV writing strategy, the test started at 5.86X and writing speed maxed out at 8X with an average speed of 7X, completing the burn in only 18:09mins.


17. DVD+R DL - Page 2

In order to test the Pioneer's DVR-110 DL writing quality, we used the LiteOn SOHD-167T and the Plextor PX-716A drives, to scan the burned media.

- Traxdata DVD-R DL media @ 2.4X

Unfortunately, Traxdata DVD-R DL media burned at 2.4X, could not complete the scan with the LiteOn drive reporting the above message, while the Plextor drive could not recognize the media.

- Traxdata DVD+R DL media @ 2.4X

Even though the first layer shows good quality media, the high PO values during the second layer and PI levels just within limits, render this media potentionaly defective.

- Verbatim DVD-R DL media @ 8X

Good performance with the Verbatim DVD-R DL media burned at 8X speed, as both CD-speed and Plextools indicate.

- Verbatim DVD+R DL media @ 8X

Again the Plextools and CD-Speed tests reported good quality burn with -R DL media at 8X burning speed.

- Summary

Average (Traxdata media) to good (Verbatim media) reported quality with DL media. Note that the writing quality is very dependent on the inserted media, as one can clearly see on this page. A further improvement on DL burning would be welcome.


18. DVD-RAM Tests

The previous Pioneer model, the DVR 110D was only DVD-RAM read enabled and at a maximum speed of 2X. The latest model, the 110 is an upgrade to that, being able to read and write DVD-RAM media at the max speed of 5X. Maxell announced on 26th of May, 2004, the release of 5X DVD-RAM media. DVD-RAM media is the most appropriate media for large file storage and recovery, since it combines an error correction system and BCM (Bismuth Coupling Material) recording layer technology, which improves signal to noise ratio for higher reliability during high-speed recording.

click to enlarge!

As Maxell stated: "DVD-RAM is an advanced recording media format that offers a range of digital data applications. Its phase-change recording material allows discs to be re-recordable and erasable, and a superior defect management system ensures accurate recording and playback. DVD-RAM allows instant, random access to any location on the disc for fast and easy data reading and writing. Because DVD-RAM supports fast formatting and no finalizing, it is an extremely easy-to-use media. And with DVD-RAM, changes can be made directly on the disc without the need to transfer data to a hard drive first, speeding up the editing tasks..."

- Burning Tests

Using NeroCDSpeed, we got the following graph:

The drive started writing at 4.93X using the CLV technology. It reached 4.89X max writing speed, reporting an average burning speed of 4.81X. The task was completed in 11:37mins.

Using the latest Nero version, we burned our usual Single Layer DVD compilation.

The writing procedure ended after 31:49mins. Normally, the time needed would be 12mins, but the "Write and Verify" strategy used when writing DVD-RAM media extended the writing time by 18mins.


19. Booktype Support

Just as the DVR-110D, the DVR-110 does not support the Bitsetting feature for DVD+R/+RW media. Also like the the DVR-110D, it supports the automatic change of DVD+R DL media to DVD-ROM in order to maximize compatibility with stand alone players.


20. DVR-110 vs SA300 - Page 1

For checking exactly what the Pioneer DVR-110 reports, we used four different media, burned with other recorders. The three media have been measured with the well known AudioDev SA300 DVD CATS system at 1X.

The drive is capable of reporting PI/PIF errors, so we will compare those measurements at the 4X reading speed.

Please note that the posted results are only valid for the specific tested Pioneer DVR-110 drive. Using other drives, even another Pioneer DVR 110, can produce totally different results. Be aware!

#1st Test Disc - PISum8/PIF Comparison - 8X Reading speed

Somewhat similar error line trends in this case, though the reading of the CMC +4X media was slow.


21. DVR-110 vs SA300 - Page 2

For checking exactly what the Pioneer DVR-110 reports, we used three different media, burned with other recorders. The three media have been measured with the well known AudioDev SA300 DVD CATS system at 1X.

The drive is capable of reporting PI/PIF errors, so we will compare those measurements at 4X reading speed.

Please note that the posted results are only valid for the specific tested Pioneer DVR-110 drive. Using other drives, even another Pioneer DVR-110, can produce totally different results. Be aware!

#2nd Test Disc - PISum8/PIF Comparison - 4X Reading speed

The error line trend in this case more or less follows the original cats trend line, although reading was slow once more.


22. DVR-110 vs SA300 - Page 3

For checking exactly what the Pioneer DVR-110, we used three different media, burned with other recorders. The three media have been measured with the well known AudioDev SA300 DVD CATS system at 1X.

The drive is capable of reporting PI/PIF errors, so we will compare those measurements at 4X reading speed.

Please note that the posted results are only valid for the specific tested Pioneer DVR-110 drive. Using other drives, even another Pioneer DVR-110, can produce totally different results. Be aware!

#2nd Test Disc - PISum8/PIF Comparison - 4X Reading speed


Click on the image for details

Almost identical trend lines with MCC 4X DVD-R. Once more, slow reading, maxed out at 2.4X.


23. Conclusion

The Pioneer DVR-110 is an upgrade of the previous model, the DVR-110D in terms of DVD-RAM capabilities. It retains all the characteristics of its predecessor, but introduces 8X DVD-R DL writing and further improves the DVD-RAM reading speed from 2X to 5X while adding a 5X max burning speed for the specific media.

CD reading speed also remains the same as the DVR-110D, at 40X, while the drive still has problems in reading 90/99min AudioCDs. The DVD-ROM reading speed is set to 16X, as in the previous model, while for Pressed DL media, the reading speed is 12X. No changes in the riplock either, were it is still off, enabling fast DVD ripping, ideal for ripping enthusiasts.

As for the error correction, the drive retains the previous CD error correction capabilities, while improving on the DVD error correction mechanism as we saw in the previous pages, where the 545 defective media was read flawlessly.

With protected media, the scene is also the same as with the 110D. The Safedisc media was hard to rip, completing in an hour or so, while the other two tested games, with PSX and Securom protection, were ripped fast and flawlessly. Protected audio media ripping capabilities of the drive also remained the same as the previous model, with the Key2Audio protected audio disc unsuccessfully ripped, resulting in an unplayable backup. Both the other protected audio discs were ripped and backed up successfully.

CD writing quality has been slightly improved according to the Plextools scans, while with the CDX Clover Systems tests, two out of five media reported a "PASS" indication. Moreover, no E32 errors were reported with any media which is very good. The writing speed is dependent on the inserted media, as only with TY media was the drive able to burn a CD image at 40X burning speed. All other media were burned at 32X max speed, and a further improvement on the supported media list would be welcome.

With DVD media, the drive produced some good burns, although once more the quality and speed is dependent on the inserted media. We encountered media which was not supported by the drives media list, such as Optodisc -R 16X media burned at 4X. Most 8X certified media was oversped at 12X for both formats, while some 16X media were burned at 12X or on a few occasions, at 8X.

The DL writing quality is satisfactory, depending on the inserted media, where Verbatim media was burned at 8X for both ±R formats, while Traxdata DL media resulted in low quality or even unreadable burns. As for DVD-RAM media, the write and verify strategy is present, without a disable option given, rendering the burn slow, but at high quality. The DVD-RAM burning speed is 5X max.

In the case of bitsetting, the drive is set by default to DVD-ROM only for DVD+R DL media without the ability to change this. In the drive's features, we can add measurement of writing quality on media.

The Pioneer DVR-110 can be found on the market ranging from US$48 to US$54 including VAT.

- The Good

- Supports 8X DVD±R DL
- Very good DVD error correction
- Supports 5X DVD-RAM reading/writing
- Supports overspeed for 8X media at 12X
- High ripping speed for DVD-Video

- The Bad

- Limited CD overburning
- Doesn't support overburning for DVD
- DVD+RW compatibility list

- Like To be fixed

- Writing quality for specific DVDRW media

Reading
Error Correction
Protected Discs
Writing
Features


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