I plan to get one for our office here, one of those "just in case" sort of things. I definitely need it to be external (USB 2.0), and I want it to be multi-format (both "+" and "-").

Any suggestions?

In my opinion, buy an internal dvd burner. I suggest a LG SUper Multi drive. It supports to and writes to all types of writable and re-writable dvds. Then go and buy an external 5.25" USB2.0 case. these together wont cost you more than 170(Canadian). Whereas if you go and by an external dvd burner at most places you will be paying upwards of 250.

<---- id***.

I forgot all about those enclosures. In that case, what is a really good multi-format internal burner?

I'd ask for enclosure recommendations, but they're all kind of the same, aren't they?

yea. most enclosures are the same unless u want like a kickass look. but for general use. they are all the same. as for burners...if u want one that writes to everything....go for LG. However LG has some issues with cheap dvd media. I personally order 50 Princo DVD's from blankmedia.ca for 33bux. But if you dont want to worry about media types, go for a sony. they have gotten cheap.

I think I'm going to go with the Plextor model PX-708UF/SW, which is the external version of the highly-rated PX-708A. It gets very high marks, plus has both USB 2.0 and Firewire.

This is for my office, so it's not really my money anyway. So why not go with a brand that I really trust?

Thanks guys!

lol if money is not important best out there is the plextors!! proven with lots of hardware review sites...