Best Dual-layer burner for the money

[alzeppelin]

After burning coaster after coaster, I have determined that it is time for a new burner for dual-layer discs. What are the best internal PC drives that are somewhat affordable ($50 or under)?

Any advice would be most helpful.

Thanks in advance!

[weedwacker]

Before you even buy a new burner have checked to see if there is any firmware updates for your burner? It seems a lot of dual layer burners don't work with the majority of dual layer media when they first ship them. Usually firmware updates will correct this problem as new media is released by manufacturers. Also the next question is what software are you using to burn dual layer discs? Maybe changing software and updated firmware will fix the problem.

[retired]

Pioneer 115
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827129018

Unless your burner is old or over at least 1000 burns, try everything WW said first.

[alzeppelin]

I use either Nero or DVD Decryptor to burn the discs and have tried each with the same result. The drive itself is probably 2-3 years old and it is heavily used as well. It was a cheaper Sony model so I guess it wouldn't be expected to last more than a couple years at the most.

[retired]

Don't use Nero for DL - it's general rule, and well know problem causing app.
Get ONES...links in my sig

[GhostInTheMachine]

get a new PC. jump start the economy.

[alzeppelin]

I need to jump start my checking account first...it is on life support.

get a new PC. jump start the economy.

[SundayDriver]

I have an external variant of this Lite-On drive and love it...very low error rates on burned discs...

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827106226

[mooncusser]

Plextor. I've never regretted spending the extra $$. It'll probably outlive the current PC.

[pawel]

Check reviews at CDFreaks (http://club.cdfreaks.com/f61/). There are also hundreds burn quality scans for each model.