What's the difference with DVD+R/RW and DVD-R/RW

TaBunny

Help please I am looking to buy a dvd player which only records in DVD+R/RW but I don't really know the difference between - and +. They all seem the same to me. It does play back dvd-r/rw so I think it wil be ok. But I still don't know what the difference is between DVD+ and DVD- can someone enlighten me please.

mattymoo

Slightly different formats. Both use a blank DVD to record on but you have to have the correct one. Both are readily available in the shops and online so you will not have a problem sourcing blanks.

hendersonb

Similar to the Betamax/vhs war - different formats (both use similar media this time). DVD-R uses the same method as CD-R
There is also DVD-RAM which hasn't really took off.
Some older dvd's struggle with reading +r discs though - dvd-r will give you greater compatibility between diferent dvd players. Nothing in media cost there both within a few pence of each other.
A lot of the new dvd recorders can use any discs - if yours is one then just go for the cheapest media.

And well were just about to go through all this trouble again with the new HI-Definition formats bluray and HD-DVD. Would be much better for the consumer if there was one industry standard but due to corporate greed this isn't likely to happen soon :-(

mar<

-R is the more compatible format when buying blank DVDs if you want to play on every player out there. +Rs work on most but don't on some.

All modern players will play both without problem, which is why players/ recorders are badged as DVD +/-R

TaBunny

Ah thanks everyone I understand now, so there's no real difference I just need to make sure I get the right ones for the dvd player I buy, cheers all

Piers

May i just say, most blank dvd disks on the high street stores are cheaply and badly made and sold at high prices.

If you want good discs that work and are long lasting buy from people who know.

svp.co.uk

I have never received a bad service from them and i highly recommend them.