I use Ritek G03. I also have little kids handling the discs. I've tried to train them, but they're only so good at handling the discs (little hands), and the favorites get scratches, and then don't play. These discs seem to scratch very easily--either that, or, the tiniest scratch(es) cause problems. I know this may partly be a function of my player, but I'm wondering if other media hold up better under this kind of use? Thanks.
Basically I know that Verbatims hold up well on both sides... If its the silver side that scratches easy, I suggest using CD/DVD Labels and that will protect your DVDs alot longer...
I too have noticed that the Ritek G03 scratch easily not matter how gingerly you handel them. As mentioned, Verbatim hold up well as do FujiFilm (from my experience). mikewill, here's another idea. I was having trouble with a couple DVD plaryers reading the backups which were on cheaper media (Princo, Ritek, various House brands). At Best Buy they have a $50 player by Mintek that will play absolutely anything, no matter how cheap the media. I also noticed it played scratched media (I have kids also) better than my 2 home DVD players. Just something else to think about...
corngrits, thanks... In helping mikewill you also helped me. I was checking out DVD Players and I will try the Mintek... Especially from Best Buy...
I thought my Panasonic player was pretty scratch tolerant -- way better than my last (very last) piece of SONY junk, anyway. But then these problems with the Ritek discs. NOW, it turns out the problem wasn't the discs OR the player; it was the LABELS I've been putting on the discs lately (for easier kid identification). I removed the labels from a couple of very troublesome discs; much work, but just a test. The results were discs rather messed up and a bit scratched, but they played perfectly. I guess the player's OK.
Unfortunately, minor scratches can cause some not so minor problems. Silver topped disks tend to be worse for wear. Similar to the unbranded CD-R's except that scratches on DVD-R's affect the disk much more than scratches on CD-R's. Fingers alone, generally will not scratch a disk. Its the putting in and out of DVD PLayers and cases that caue the problems. Always store safely when not used. There is also the myth that people sometimes say dont be skipping disks forwards or backwards while playing as this can damage them. Pay no attention! Lasers that read cannot do any damage to the disk! Try Verbatim and Traxdat (these have thermal printed writing on them - extra protection)
