Looks like drive prices should be coming down soon

[Murse]

Here's a link to an interesting article about the supply of DVD/R/RW drives. Apparently, recent parts shortages have been cleared up and the major producers are set to start cranking out more products:

http://www.taiwanheadlines.gov.tw/20031007/20031007b1.html

More products mean lower costs which means more competitive prices...

[vsekh]

Also, more companies will release their dual DVD burners with the same speeds as the Plextor PX-708A soon. Prices should drop on the older DVD burners. The prices have dropped for the Plextor PX-708A already.

[VEFF]

Interesting.

DVD burner prices have been coming down quite fast ever since they were introduced:
For example, a 2X Pioneer A03 single format burner was $799 just
2 years ago; now an 8X dual format burner is $230 or less, and a 4X dual format burner is $108 + shipping.

Lately prices have really plummeted...
4X single format burners are available for $90 after $20 rebate.

[Kennyshin]

Shortage of Japanese-made PUH was the key reason why the arrival of US$100 4x DVD writers was so long delayed. Just a few months ago, it was reported that the OEM unit price of 4x DVD dual writer dropped to as low as US$130. In a few months, 8x OEM price will drop to US$100.