Now that Sony, NEC, and other manufacturers are unveiling their dual layered drives, isn't it about time we get some dual layered media? Mitsubishi Chemical Media is the first out of the gate. For now, the discs' ERP is 1,500 yen - about $13 USD. Ouch.

Mitsubishi Chemical Media Corporation will release the "DTR85N1," dual layered DVD+R discs, in the back part of May. Although the official price is Open Price, indicators suggest they should cost around 1,500 yen.

The recording capacity of these discs is 8.5GB, and the write speed is 2.4x. Typical manufacturing of dual layered discs consists of pigmenting both the first layer (L0) and the second layer (L1), there needs to be a spacer inserted between each layer - however, Mitsubishi uses their independently developed "DYN-AZO" pigmenting process. This has allowed for a dual layered recording membrane o­n o­ne side of the disc.

Also, the disc uses technology such as that which controls subtle curvature, as well as the minute substrate plastic technology currently used o­n other high speed recordable discs. This is said to secure that inclination to stability during recording and playback.

Furthermore, o­ne of these discs will be included with Sony's DVD±R/RW drive supporting dual layered writing, the "DRU-700A" (TechJapan link), to be released o­n May 15th. Sony has said that "there are currently no plans" for releasing dual layered DVD+R discs under the Sony brand name.

Also, the "DVR-ABN8W/iUN8W" (TechJapan link) DVD+R DL drives from IO Data to be released in the back part of May will not include any media.



Inspired by:
http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/av/docs/20040514/mcmedia.htm

Press Release:
http://www.mcmedia.co.jp/japanese/news/press/0034.html