Need a new optical drive

[LstBrunnenG]

For a while now, my Lite-On DVD burner has had trouble ejecting discs. The disc would sort of catch on something, the tray would stall, but eventually I'd be able to pull the disc out.

Well just now, I ejected my Homeword2 disc and noticed that there are big scratches on the top of the disc that are visible from the bottom. Two big swaths cut right through the data layer.

Needless to say, I can't trust this drive with my data anymore. I'd like to get something with quality this time, like a Plextor, but the ones on Newegg are all over $100. Though I've had great luck with them in the past, I don't want another Lite-On, because their drives eventually seem to deteriorate.

Here's one I'm looking at:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16827151136

Is Samsung a good company for optical drives? Does anyone else have any other suggestions? Thanks in advance.

 

[TechHead]

Not too good. I'd recommend an LG H42 or a Pioneer 111.

 

[djnes]

I have that drive in work, and the SATA version in my computer in my sig (top one). Samsung makes pretty good drivers, especially when cost is factored in.

 

[Stupac]

I got the LG H22N which is great.

Also the Sammy SH-183L is nice for a SATA drive which I have.

Both burn my Verbatims DVD-R at 18X.

BTW, to be safe, all the 18X drives should be used with Verbatim media.

 

[TechHead]

I got the LG H22N which is great.

Also the Sammy SH-183L is nice for a SATA drive which I have.

Both burn my Verbatims DVD-R at 18X.

BTW, to be safe, all the 18X drives should be used with Verbatim and TY media.

Fixed

 

[Stupac]

Fixed

Good point on the TY media.