Tried flashing the 1.31 firmware to the 104 but it's just not having any of it.

When i try to install it it comes up with an error message "wrong kernal" (or something like that).

I'm trying to flash it on a Sony Vaio desktop.

Any ideas?

what is your firmware now?
if its below 1.31 then it should accept it, if its equal to or above 1.31 then you will have to flash below it then back up to 1.31.

I used the drive checker to see weather or not i'm able to upgrade the firmware and to see what version i've got.

Here's the report:

PIONEER DVD-RW DVR-104
Current Revision : 1.30
Release Date : 02/05/31
Model : Not pioneer model. (OEM products)

This firmware is already latest version.
This firmware does not need to be updated.

Hope this sheds some light on the prob

check out this page/site :-
http://forum.rpc1.org/viewtopic.php?t=12804&highlight=sony+vaio
for sony oem flashing.
hth.