Is it worth it to go out and buy the new 18x DVD writers?

[Alektron]

Sorry, but it's more of a rhetorical question for me. As of this time, I have no plans to buy any new 18x DVD writers to replace my working 16x drive. The ONLY reason I could think I would buy one is if the 16x drive failed, I may just get the 18x. I mean, what's the point of 18x? (12.5% faster at the top end won't save much time if the drive speed is ramping up during a burn anyway). When CD writers were edging past 16x, didn't they jump directly to 24x? Does anyone remember?? Anyway, til we reach 24x, or my hardware breaks, I don't see a need for a replacement. What's your opinion?

[Ian]

I'd way and see how things pan out. Honestly, I think they're nothing but a marketing gimmick. Not to mention, you're paying a premium for them.

But hey, if someone like LG can deliver a 18x DVD writer that uses P-CAV and is a minute faster than the competition while delivering good writing quality, I might go for it.

[aviationwiz]

Yeah, I'm holding out on the 18x drives. Just about the only reason I would go for it is improved writing quality, or a significant speed difference with the same or slightly better writing quality.

[Gabe]

I wait and see what writing-quality these writers offer, because speed is not so important for me

[hoxlund]

i still continue to use my 716 over my 755sa

just because this is stuff for customers, it has to be top notch burn quality