Page 1 of Sony DVD/VCR -R +R -RW +RW etc.??????

Hi, I was wondering if anyone could help me.
I have got a Sony SLV D900 dvd/vcr combi, and I wanted to buy a dvd which is coded `-R`.
I don`t understand what the difference between -R, +R, -RW, +RW or VCD but I know that I`ve had various dvds which will play and others which won`t, (and one which ran at double speed!)
Can anyone clear this up and tell me what each of these types actually mean and which ones will work on my machine?
Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Oh I`m glad it`s not only me that`s confused. I`ve got two VCR/DVDR combis which will record on DVD-R and DVD-RW. I bought a portable DVD player which would play DVD-R but only DVD-RW if recorded in the V mode, not the VR mode.

I did some research, it`s a bit like the old VHS/Beta thing years ago. The +R and +RW discs are apparently newer and more reliable types of disc but not supported by all machines.

Re the 2 different modes of recording on -RW dics, if you record something on an RW disc in the VR mode (which gives you the editing facilities), you can`t play those on a portable player, at least I haven`t found one which will play them even when the manufacturer says it will play -RW discs. On my combis, I have the option of recording on -RW discs in the VR mode or the Video mode, but the Video mode doesn`t give you full editing facilities (ie the ability to edit out adverts and unwanted parts of your recording).

In order to record a film that I want to keep, and edit out the adverts but still be able to play it on a portable DVD player, I have to record it on a DVD-RW in the VR mode, then edit out the adverts, then copy it onto a VHS tape and then copy it back onto a DVD-R. What a palava. Why can`t they make these flipping discs compatible with all machines?

Your handbook should tell you which types of discs your machine is compatible with.

Sharon

This item was edited on Tuesday, 18th January 2005, 21:07

rather than using a VHS player as the go between for DVD-RW to DVD-R, rather than sacrificing all the quality you paid to have wouldn`t it be better to get a DVD writer for the PC you are using?