Just bought one today (february 2008 build).

I personally think the latest is the best. Some think the previous one is better. Guess you will have to try it out for yourself and see.

Is it true the latest one disabled BD-R and BD-RE read capability?

Some sadly say it does :(.

Personally I'd install the latest firmware (June), it is 99% the same as the April firmware though, still it does fix some defects in the April firmware (see the change log).

The January firmware also plays some discs that don't work in the March, April or June firmware.

My advice: Install the June firmware and see how you go.

Is it true the latest one disabled BD-R and BD-RE read capability?

Yes .

Was it ever officially supported?

Was it ever officially supported?

Not according to any of the manuals that I've seen.

If you current firmware is functioning as you need it to why upgrade? I'm at the April version just because I needed to bitstream the HD codecs. Until I see a problem, I'm not upgrading.

Was it ever officially supported?

Never heard of it.