Are there any GOOD CDRW/DVD-ROM combo drives?

[gtbrown77]

So, I'm looking to build a new computer, and am curious about these combo drives...I'm particularly looking for a good CDRW drive. I've already decided on getting the NEC-ND3500A as my DVD+/-RW drive, but have read some mixed reviews about it's CD writing ability. So, I thought I would check out the combo drives, as I burn a LOT of CDRs, and will need a second DVD-ROM drive to go along with the NEC. Any suggestions, or is the NEC a good CD writer as well (with up-to-date firmware)? Thanks.

[scomac]

I have an LG CD/RW DVD drive that is in my old system. It's been in for about 2 years and I have never had any problems with it. It's quick and it's quiet.

Scomac

[gtbrown77]

Does anybody know anything about the LiteOn SOHC-5232K? I know that LiteOn is pretty well known for having good burners....just curious about this particular combo.

[glc]

Lite-On's DVD drives and DVD/CDRW combos aren't that good - I'll only use their straight CD-R/CD-RW and DVD+/-R/RW drives. The LG combo is the best for the money.

[PCPilot]

I just put a Plextor 712A into my first build.

It's working fine so far.

[blustori]

I also recommend Plextor. Positive reviews led me to buy it from newegg.

[gtbrown77]

Okay...so the LG combo, huh? Is the NEC a good CDR/CDRW burner, or just extremely good at DVD+/- media? Is it really necessary to get the combo, or should I just go with the NEC and a second DVD-ROM drive?

[glc]

If you burn a LOT of CD's, it wouldn't hurt to get the combo, this gives you 2 options for burning CD's and it is advertised as a 52x burner. As far as the NEC goes, I see that the ND-3520 is out now, it's the same price as the ND-3500 and burns DVD +/- RW faster.