Best DVD Burners to buy?

[random person]

Sadly I don't have any old ones around so i'm looking to buy a player and get a diode out of that. However, i've been hearing rumors about how some drives have very cheap and un usable diodes in them? Anyone know a common model that would be on say Newegg.com - Computer Parts, PC Components, Laptop Computers, HDTV, Electronics and Cameras! that would have a respectable diode in it to start with? I see burner sleds sold on alot of sites but they look pretty shady sites. Any ideas?

Sorry if i'm asking a question thats been asked all to many times.

 

[Kevlar]

It doesn't make any sense to buy a complete DVD burner just for the diode. There are too many replacement sleds out there which are a lot cheaper.

Here are a few places to get some sleds:

StoneTek Electronics, Your Laser Parts Store
HighTechDealZ - Lasers
Modwerx Shop

There are also a few members here on LPF, which don't have websites, that have sleds for sale.

Actually, I can only think of http://laserpointerforums.com/members/scopeguy20/ at the moment.

 

[Ehgemus]

If you have a computer repair shop near by you can ask them to save you some broken drives. The diodes are always still good in them. I have gotten at least 10 drives for them in the last year.

 

[LtKernelPanic]

I've bought several sleds from Modwerx. IME orders usually ship within a business day or two and their prices are good. I've heard good things about the other two as well.