Optical recording method and apparatus for enabling interchange of dissimilar recording media

An optical recording medium and apparatus discriminates media of a direct overwrite light modulation type from media which are not of the direct overwrite light modulation type. The apparatus adapts both light power used for recording and erasing and recording method according to the medium type discriminated. A method of using both direct overwrite optical recording media at non-direct overwrite optical recording media in a single apparatus includes steps of writing control information onto a medium, including an indication of the type of overwrite operation and power levels appropriate to the medium, and adapting the recording apparatus to use the appropriate recording method and power levels for the medium type detected.