Is there any way to rollback the firmware on this drive? I received it new and it had the 1.21 version, but I hear it isn't that great... Or is there a hacked version out that includes more disk types?

hrm, someone did rip the v1.0 firmware and put it on the web ... see if u can find it. I think Disqworld had it posted in the forums and perhaps vcdhelp.com also.

Even if i did find it, would i be able to go backwards to that version 1.00 from my higher version (1.21)?

I don't see why it should be a problem.

yes elcochino6 ... if you find the firmware (and I promise it exists), you can flash the drive back to 1.0. I have 1.0 btw and burn t OptoDisc DVD-R ... works flawlessly so far. :)

http://forum.rpc1.org/dl_all.php

I found the fw in that link above, but it also says sony oem v. 1.10, is that the hacked version?

420, you can only downgrade the firmware on the a03 and a04

ao5/105 can't downgrade firmware

What about if you were to upgrade firmware, and use a system restore software to go back to a previous point before upgrading the firmware, would that bring it back, or is the firmware not effected by a restore of your system?

no, the firmware is not affected by a system restore.

The firmware's flashed onto a chip in the drive...downgrading on an 105 would mean physical replacement.