PS2 won't play any new DVD copies, but it will play the old ones

[dust2dust]

i reread your post your friend has ps2 as well does apple disk load slowly on his ps2 as well

if yes thats 2 ps2 two bands disks (1 well liked brand apple
2 different burners 2 different pc

check your burning software and setting u use

www.psxcopyworld.co.uk
has tutorials for nero and prassi