Will not read blank media so that I can record.

i have this model and the problem was the speed of disc you need itcant be any faster then 2x. the 4x is to fast for it i guess. I was doing ok with the "memorex DVD-RW reritables 2x ,4.7gb,120min.

Ok, Firstly it sounds like you have reasonable knowledge on what you're doing.
But just to clarify a few things.
1.You say you have tried a couple of different brands of disc.Unless they are of good quality
or compatible with your machine they may not work properly.Try TDK or Verbatim for example.
Also make sure they are DVD-R or DVD-RW.
2.If no blank discs are successful,then you may need to clean the laser lens thoroughly.
I know you said you cleaned the lens,but was this with a lens cleaner disc?
If so it will only remove dust not built up grime from other sources such as smoke from cigarettes.
This would entail taking the cover off the unit and cleaning the laser lens directly with a
cotton bud dipped in cleaning fluid.If you are not confident in doing this,then you
would need to get someone qualified to do so!
I have gotten many DVD Players and DVD Recorders working again doing this.