CES 2008: Verbatim

Verbatim, one of the largest manufacturers of blank media, are displaying their latest discs at CES. Included in the selection are BD-R and BD-RE 50GB dual layered (DL) media, mini BD-R/RE for camcorders, and standard 25GB single layered (SL) BD-Rs and BD-REs.

Unlike blank CDs and SL DVD-Rs which are produced by other manufacturers, Verbatim produces all their BD media in house, as well as blank DVD DL media. Their video display is all about the Blu-ray Disc creation process…no other types of media was being highlighted (Verbatim has media for the competition as well). The BD media is created in Japan. Verbatim is proud of their protective spin coat plus the quality control that promises to reduce write errors and jitter.

As noted, Verbatim has introduced their entry into BD-50 DL media in both R and RE flavors, rated at 2x. Now that yields are increasing, they are working to introduce 4x rated media as soon as possible. This will allow DL media to be burned at the same speed as their newly introduced 4x SL R/RE discs. Verbatim feels that demand for BD writers will increase greatly as the $249 barrier is broken, and they plan to have media ready for that demand. Verbatim also works with partners like Sonic, Sony, and Adobe for Blu-ray authoring. They want people using those software packages and burning to Verbatim discs to have a smooth and simple an experience as possible.

Verbatim also doesn't expect future media like quad-layered or 200GB capacity Blu-ray burners to be a market reality before late 2009, but they will be ready to provide the media when it is needed.