I purchased a LiteOn LDW-401S. This ia a DVD+R/RW drive only. I considered this when I bought my DVD player so that there were no compatibility issues.
I can honestly say that I am extremely happy with this drive - great bang for the buck. I read several reviews on this drive before I purchased it. I was going to by it from Newegg on the net but happened to see it at Walmart, of all places, for $109.
The only media I have used thus far for DVD burning is Maxell. I have only made good DVDs so far with this media. As far as CD media, I have used several different name brands with no problems.
LiteOn also has a dual format drive. It is the LDW-411S. I would not recommend it at this time as I have heard many discouraging remarks.