Hello. ny716,Everyone is right about trying better media and I do agree about the Verbatim. I have used it since DVDXCOPY PLATINUM came out many moons ago and like it better than any other media I have tried. It's reliable and consistant. Have tried Fugi, TDK, HP, and they work well too. Another suggestion to add to the great advice the others have given you, try sticking with 8X or less media. I have eight stand alone DVD players, this is what I've noticed. The higher quality players (usually) aren't as picky and will play just about anything. But some of my other ones will play 8X or less absolutely perfect but won't play the 16X. Something else to think about...... Hope it helps