The Advantages of a Multi-drive DVD Recorder

Multi-drive DVD recorders use inexpensive DVD discs.open/close image by Charly from Fotolia.com

Available in a variety of models, multi-drive DVD recorders let you store programming and data on more than one DVD format type. The devices are available as standalone units for use with television equipment and units for computers. They vary in price and are available from a range of manufacturers. Multi-drive DVD recorders have a number of advantages over traditional single-format DVD recorders.

Multiple Disc Formats

Multi-drive DVD recorders are capable of reading and recording on DVD+R, DVD-R, DVD+RW, DVD-RW and DVD-RAM discs. The ability to record and read multiple disc formats is ideal for users who have DVD players that can only read a certain format or if you purchase a program or movie that is only available in a certain format such as DVD-R or DVD+R. Multi-drive DVD recorders designed for computers are even capable of burning CD discs, including CD-R and CD-RW.

Another advantage of multi-drive DVD recorders is the ability to automatically adjust recording speed according to the type of disc format you are using. If the DVD disc format requires a slower burn speed, the drive will detect the disc type and change speeds. You can also manually set the recording speed for faster burning, if desired.

The recorders also let you use DVD-RAM and DVD+RW/DVD-RW discs that are rewritable about 90,000 times. These discs are ideal for backing up computer files or recording daily television programming. DVD-RAM and DVD+RW/DVD-RW discs are available at electronic, computer, retail superstores and online.

Multi-drive DVD recorders are available in various styles including external, standalone units for recording programming from a television or projector; and internal computer drives for recording files and information on a computer. Prices for both types of recorders have dropped a great deal in recent years.

Discs finalized in a multi-drive DVD recorder are viewable in other DVD players as well as in a computer's DVD player as long the other DVD player is capable of playing the disc's format.