Not sure about the black thing (you could paint it) but my NEC 1300A is dual format, got auto region reset firmware but is only 4 speed but does me fine !
Like Pinkprobegt I don't know about the black colour, but I have a Pioneer 106, which are a great price now and get an excellent customer rating. Take a look on Ebuyer at the customer reviews of various DVD RWs.
That's what helped me make my choice. Have a read through the reviews.