This is fine but after reading the specs for the two formats, I think the +R/RW format offers the most flexibility for the user, and is compatible with more drives. I hope the DVD+RW Alliance comes out with similar definitive licensing rates. I must admit I like having a choice. I was unsure about DVD+R/RW until I finally found out what the difference was.

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Then again, I'm strongly leaning towards DVD-R/W due pure facts and lessons from the good olde 1980's -- technology doesn't matter, markets matter (Beta was definately much, much more advanced video format than VHS). And this years estimates in worldwide blank media sales:

DVD-R : 90,000,000 discs
DVD+R : 13,000,000 discs

...and in rewritable, the ratio is DVD-RW 75/DVD+RW 25.

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Keep one tidbit in mind. A certain software maker announced earlier this year that they plan to incorporate native support for packet writing DVD+RW data. They make a product called Widows. Know who they are? Don't you think their declaration gives DVD+RW an edge in survivla?

True, MS has power, but can they reverse the economics. It seems that the price gap between formats is still wide and doesn't seem to get much narrower -- one just assumes that actually making "plus" discs simply costs more. Whether this is due stupid licensing fees or due technical issues, it doesn't matter. Users simply pick the media that costs less.

Now, all of you who have dual-format DVD writer, such as Sony DRU-500A, raise your hand if you have burned more than 100 discs, have DVD player that plays both plus and minus discs and still buy only plus discs?

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