I found ConvertxtoDVD to be a very easy-to-use program, so I do like it. I currently have only tried burning one set of movies with it, though. Once I got my settings right, I tried playing it on my Toshiba player. It worked. However, on my friend's Sony, Japanese PS2, my brother's portable Panasonic, and his American PS2, the DVD is not recognized. It also works on all computers. I tried burning within ConvertxtoDVD and I even used DVD Decrypter to see if that could change any authoring, then burned a DVD with Nero, but I got the same result. I would use Nero, but both titles have subtitles and I know that Nero does not support them. Is there something wrong with ConvertxtoDVD or am I just doing something wrong? I'd rather not hardcode the subtitles onto the movies, but if I really have to I will have no choice. Is there another affordable (or free) program out there that will allow me to convert .avi files so the resulting DVD will work on all players?
I am using TDK DVD-Rs at a burn speed of 8x. I've never had problems with TDKs before, and I burn them using Nero. In the case of Convertx, I have burned within the program and in Nero, and I get the same results with both methods: works on my Toshiba but not on other players. In case age matters, the Toshiba is from 2000, my brother's portable Panasonic is about 1-2 years older.
TDK is one of the brands that are hit and miss as far as getting good quality discs. Most of the people on this forum will recommend TY, Verbatim, Sony (MIJ) or Fuji (MIJ). Try reducing your burn speed to 4X. Also check your firmware for updates. You could also switch to +R discs and booktype them (if your burner supports it).
What are the advantages of using +R discs? I have heard that they are not compatible with all DVD players. And what is booktyping and how can I find out if my burner supports it? I will consider switching to one of the brands you suggested. Is it possible that DVDs can malfunction for only specific tasks? When I burn other DVDs I have no issues on any player. I've only had problems when converting files in Convertx and then burning.
For the difference between -R and +R I suggest you read this: http://www.cdfreaks.com/article/113 Booktyping is making the disc seem as if it is a DVD-ROM. Check the web page for your burners manufacture and see if it is supported. I use -R format discs without problems. However, stand alone players differ greatly. Some like them, some don't. It's kind of trial and error to see what is best supported by your player. As for compatiblty, a general rule is something like this: -R format 95 to 97% +R format is about the same ROM format is 96 to 99% This is only a small guide and should not be quoted. Perhaps you should check your ConvertXtoDVD settings. That maybe the problem.
