This is an introduction to using CD and DVD recorders under Linux and UNIX systems. Its main focus is on command line based tools. It will give you an idea how the powerful tools and utilities behind the fancy GUIs work and what they can do for you. Recording CDs and DVDs from the command line can be useful in many situations, for example if you access to the host only via the network; if your host does not have X11 available; or perhaps your favorite GUI won’t start for some reason. Another reason for using the command line based tools is that they can be used in scripts to automate repetitive tasks such as backups.

If that is your thing then go for it. I need to pick up a DVD burner to do some backups. Yes, I already have a 250gb Firewire Drive, but you can never be too safe.

In other news I have a strong urge to go buy a Mac today.