500GB only takes about 120 DVD-R's so the cost is little more than a single 100 disc spindle pack. I would rather be safe than sorry.

But I do agree, the sooner blu-ray or HD-DVD burners and their media come down to affordable and more mainstream prices the better. Fitting 50GB per disc would mean just 10 discs for 500GB which is much more manageable.

Anyone got any ideas on when writable HD-DVD is coming? I've been hearing romours of 90GB per disc but have nothing to confirm that. I've also heard that it will be a more robust format than Blu-Ray, much like the difference between DVD-R and DVD+R. And I've also heard some uncomfirmed reports that the data layer on blu-ray discs is very close to the surface and easily damaged. Not so good if that is the case.