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-712A with the latest available firmware. For scanning the disc, we used the latest PlexTools version 2.18 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 and DVD-RW Media

• Mitsubishi Chemicals 4X DVD-RW @ 4X

• Optodisc 4X DVD-RW @ 4X

• Traxdata 4X DVD+RW @ 4X

• Verbatim 4X DVD+RW @ 4X

- Summary

We were expecting to see good quality performance with DVD+RW and DVD-RW media, since the writing speed is low at 4X. The RICOH MP5316DA DVD Burner did not disappoint us at this point, giving better results than those we posted in the review of the NEC ND-3500A drive. Probably this has to do with updated firmware released in the time between the reviews. All media that were readable produced good quality scans especially given the fact that the media is rewritable.