I using LG 18x with TDK DVD+R 16x. LG not that bad la
(self-consolation). Get a DVD-RW from other brands to test first.
If still cannot, just tell the retailer what you have done to
confirm that the drive is faulty then change to another drive of
the same or other models de lo. If the 7-day 1:1 exchange period is
over, then you'll have to use the warranty, I guess.