Nick, I've had lots of problems with my S97S skipping/freezing during movies that were ripped onto DVD+R formats. Even though people on AVS will tell you the S97S works fine with +R, I have my doubts. Like you said the manual does not mention this support. Also, I've even had problems with some -R disks from Cheap manufacturers like memorex and imation. When I use Verbatim/Taiyo Yuden/etc. I have better luck.
This is one reason I plan to build a HTPC. I NEVER have problems with computer based players playing + or - R formats. I'm actually thinking about selling my S97S or using it on a different TV in our house, as it does work great with store/rental DVD's.
I'm thinking about building a small footprint HTPC to sit in m AV rack, and then have it networked to one of these
http://www.lime-technology.com .
