Lightscribe external CD burner

[sam walker]

I think I'm looking at getting an external CD burner to take over from the on board CD writer on my HP. I see the new tech is for a lightscribe burner that will label the CD. Sounds cool what are the lows and highs to this drive,software and media. Your opinions are welcome.:p
Sam

[inthedeck]

Discs are relatively expensive, for what you get. Still cheaper to get a non-LS burner for cheaper, and the discs themselves are cheaper. Not much more I hear about 'em, other than being able to create the labels on the disc.

Check around for 'media' prices...and I think that may sway your decision. Good luck.

[dfjames]

I've got the LaCie lightscribe CD/DVD burner and it works fine burning CDs, only downside to the label burning is the time it can take, a fairly simple design can take 30-40 minutes. For the times when you want to turn out a professional looking CD/DVD it's great

[rdricks]

The lightscribe effect is neat, and it is professional looking. But the CDs do cost more, and it takes a long time. I still use printable CDs in the inkjet printer for most my work. Occasionally I use the Lightscribe, but I cannot bring myself to pay the extra for the media most the time.

-Ryan

[shocksyde]

I have a LS burner, and while neat, it takes WAAAAAY too long. I never use the feature because it's a pain.

[e r y k]

my lightscribe burner is pretty quick. but it all depends on what you decide to burn on the cd. media ends up to be a few cents cheaper if you buy the cds online, and a bit more expensive if u buy it locally.

rdricks, i never understood the printable cds in the inkjet printer... how do you get the cd to feed through?

[rdricks]

eryk -

To print on a CD you need two things - a printer that supports it (many inkjets will), and media with a printable surface (typically a white matte side).

My printer is an older Epson (Stylus Photo 960). It comes with a tray you put the CD (or DVD ) on, then slide the tray into the printer from the front. To print you simply move the "paper thickness" lever to the CD setting, then insert the tray. It comes with a program for creating the image, or you can create a template in your favorite editing software.

With printable CDs you can have a simple text only design, or a full photo on the front. I also make sure to put a CD or DVD logo so that I can tell the difference when looking at them later.

-Ryan

[e r y k]

very interesting, thanks, ill look into that. it was just kinda weird to me at first because the angle where the paper feeds in, and the angle where it comes out, is pretty different. and cds dont bend that easily :P

but ill go do some research. thanks again.

[sam walker]

thanx for your opinions folks very helpful . Think i'll remain Amish and go without lightscribe.
Sam