which is the best CD/R for long term storage?

[edenworkshops]

Hello

I store a mix of data and MP3's on CD/R, mainly data, in the past I used an off the shelf brand well known in this country (UK) called Imation. Problem was I checked out my collection of CD/R and 18% of them showed data errors and some of them could not be accesed at all, though I tried several CD drives. These CD/R were all under three years old. Some of the material I need to put onto CD is sooooooo important to me. so I have to find the best CD/R to store this material on.

I've done a bit of research on the net, and it seems to come down to a variety of factors, primarily what kind of dye is used in the manufacture.
I've heard very good things said of MAM-E Gold ProStudio CD/R which uses a phthalocyanine dye, and equally good things spoken of TAIYO YUDEN CD/R. But the good things were in the main spoken by the companys about themselves.

So thats why I come to the forum, where I hope to get the opinion of the people that matter, those who buy the CD/R's.

Some have mentioned Verbatim as being a good bet...what type please? And do you know what dye is used in their manufacture?

In passing I wonder what type of CD software manufactures use? I have many of that type of CD which are over 8 years old and still giving no problems...they all seem to be a matt silver colour?

Your input is very much appreciated, thank you.

eden