are dvd-r 8x media compatible with 4x burners?

[phrentec]

question. are dvd-r 8x media (specifically from memorex) compatible with 4x dvd burners?

[The Geek]

Depends. For 8x discs you need a firmware that supports 8x DVD media. If the manufacturer supports such a firmware and you flash your 4x drive with it, then yes, you can burn to 8x discs with your 4x burner (only at 4x, of course).
If there is no firmware available to make your 4x burner 8x compatible, then nope, you can't burn an 8x. Well, actually, you can, but the results will be very crappy and unusuable.

The Geek