Taiwan-based Ritek, CMC Magnetics (CMC) and Prodisc Technology could begin volume production of 8x-speed DVD+R/-R discs as early as next month, according to sources.The global DVD+R and DVD-R market is currently dominated by 4x models, but Japanese manufacturers recently began offering 8x DVD-Dual drives (supporting the DVD+RW and DVD-RW rewritable formats).

Although their 8x DVD+R/-R discs have passed OEM client certification and been ready for production, the top three Taiwanese disc makers have not commenced volume production because local optical drive makers are behind schedule in launching corresponding burners, the disc makers said.With few companies having entered the market, 8x DVD+R/-R discs scheduled for shipment in October are commanding prices of US$1.30-1.50 per disc, compared to US$1-1.20 for 4x discs.Japan-based market research firm Fujiwara estimates that global demand for DVD+R/-R discs in 2003 will reach 400 million to 500 million units.