The default settings should work fine for you. What you may have is either some questionable CD media or maybe your burner is set to try to burn faster than it should be. Once you have compiled your Data to be burned and click on the "Burn" icon, the first box that pops up gives you the option to change the burn speed. Make sure it is set properly and if you are in doubt on your media, try lowering the speed a bit below the drives' rated maximum speed. The only other thing might be if you go to the first screen and click on Recorder. Then click on Choose Recorder. Make sure that your correct drive is listed and selected and also check the stats that are listed. There should also be a button that says "Options". Click that to see if there is something like "Just burn" (or whatever yours might be) is selected, if applicable.
But, I would play with the speed a bit first. I'm betting that will solve the trouble. No, you don't have to run your CD RW at lower speeds all the time. Sometimes the media just can't handle the speed you are trying. Good Luck.