DVD-R: Write once, compatible with existing players. $10-$15 (per blank disc)
DVD-RW: Rewritable, compatible with existing players. $20-$25
DVD-RAM: Rewritable, data can more easily be streamed off. $35
DVD+RW: Rewritable, compatible with existing players. N/A
R & RW are pretty self-explanatory. Just think of the differences between CD-R/RW.
RAM looks very promising: data is "managed in relatively small chunks, yielding better storage efficiency and error correction than alternative systems." The big problem is you\'ll need a new player and most consumers won\'t like that.
+RW has the advantages of RAM, but the technology is more complex and is relatively new, thus costing more. It\'s compatible with existing players though so keep watching for this format.
All formats can record up to 2 hours of DVD-Video quality audio and video. They can also record up to 1 hour of what is labeled as "studio" quality. Now all you need is a couple of DVD-RAMs, a Pana DMR-E10 DVD-RAM deck, and about $4000.
It\'s funny though, 480p is still not enough to record those 720p or 1080i HDTV broadcasts. No big deal I guess; we were content with recording our cable broadcasts with 240i VHS casette tapes.
Note- all info is from Sound & Vision Magazine.[Edited by THX on 12-30-2000 at 02:26 AM]
