Superdrive, Combo drive?

Just to clarify, the slot loading cd/dvd drives on the Macbooks are different right?

The super drive can read/write CD & DVD, while the combo drive can only READ DVD, but can also write CD/CD-RW correct?

Bleh, I don't want to have to pay $200 more for the next model in the Macbook line just for a better processor, a bigger HD, and the drive.
The base model's specs are perfectly fine for me, except the slot loading drive.

 

Yeaps, that's the difference; the SuperDrive can read/write CD/DVD, Combo only read/write CD, read DVD.

A lot of people find that annoying, and I agree, Apple should ditch the Combo Drive altogether.

 

It's not fair =[.

I want to be able to back up stuff on a DVD once in awhile, considering the fact each DVD has 4.7GB on it :/. Would be useful to back up pictures/music.
I would prefer to back up on a DVD, not a CD.

 

So the combo can burn CD's?

 

Yes the Combo can burn only cd's. You could always get an external for under 200.

 

On a somewhat related question; are all Super-drives Dual-layer DVD writers?

 

I agree the combo is outdated and it's unfair having to pay that extra for a superdrive. This said, I don't remember the last time I burnt a cd/dvd (have an iMac with superdrive), so actually it's not a big deal anymore for me.

DrPoi

 

i didnt use my old dvd burner that often so for 200 i just added a 320gb hd, better use in the 200 i think but its all personal pref

 

That is very true. I think I've used my SuperDrive, either burning or even just reading, maybe 10 times since I got it in May?

 

Yes; I've burnt several DVD+R DL discs (Verbatim) and haven't had any problems.

I have no idea how they work with DVD-R DL, though.

I've been careful to use high-quality media so far; and I've found the superdrive to be very reliable. Though it could have been faster. Faster replacement drives are available on the market, if you're interested. On the other hand, for durable discs, it's recommended that you burn them slowly anyhow.

and: it's a HUGE disgrace that Apple still offers the combo drive on base models.

 

Nonetheless, I KNOW I'll eventually need it, therefore I know I absolutely need it, not want.

Absolutely. Maybe they just want people to pay more.
The 2nd model's processor is much more than what I need, and I could simply upgrade the hard drive through Apple's upgrades, or by myself. Therefore, the only thing that's holding me back, is the superdrive.
If the base model had a superdrive, I might actually have a chance of getting the Macbook by June. Gah, we'll see.

 

Can we expect the next hardware upgrade from Apple brings us not only superdrives but blu-ray superdrives? I guess we're on that kind of moment you have to be careful with what you add to your product. Once it seems blu-ray is going to be "The One", this seems to be a logic evolution to me.

DrPoi

 

Its hard to say. Apple is officially with Blu Ray, but still hasn't stepped up. And not to mention it seems to be going its own route with online HD downloads.

But if it is, expect it to probably show up in the 17-inch MBP and Mac Pro first .

 

Erm, I haven't been following technology news too well...
what exactly is the difference between HD DVD, and Blu-Ray?

 

They are basically different types of media that both support Hi-Definition quality. There are some differences, such as HD DVD having up to about 35GB of storage and Blue-Ray having up to 50GB of storage. As of now Blue-Ray is winning this HD "war". That is the basics about it, I do not know too much about them either but just wikipediaed it. I think someone else will go into more depth. Hope that helps... for now.

 

Its just the two different competing formats. As Stunner said, they have different storage capabilities, but also they have different resolutions. Blu Ray is native at 1080p, while HD DVD is at 720p/1080i. Also, Blu Ray supports 7.1 surround, and I think HD DVD only does 5.1. Ill look that up and come correct myself if I'm wrong.

 

Not that much difference...they are both high-definition formats, currently in a big war . Blu Ray does have the advantage in terms of hardware (more storage space, 1080p (HD DVD can be 1080p though), etc.), but its more expensive as well.

Apple supports Blu Ray, Sony's the main proponent of it. Toshiba's the main proponent of HD DVD, and Microsoft supports HD DVD. Blu Ray is winning by quite a margin though.

 

Lol.

Go Sony. xDD
Asians FTW. :]

Edit: Wait, Sony & Toshiba are both Asian companies. Oops, haha.