Which cdrw & software to buy ?

[mahatma]

I just sold my Phillips 4x4x32, and now im ready to get a ~REAL~CDRW. Plextor came out with a new one and Ricoh too- "A DVD Combo". I need some experienced advice on what CDRW and which software is really the top of the line right now. I have made too many frizbee wead-eaters in the past.
Mostly I backup PC games, audio, but I will be doing some DVDs too as soon as as get a DVD player too. I really dont RW much, I just reburn a new R-cd if needed. I am wanting least trouble as possibe, Which means I am willing to pay a few extra $'s.
Thanks....oh yea, does it make a difference between IDE or USB connection? I have both available..