TDK VeloCD 40/12/48

WHAT'S HOT: This model gave the best performance we've seen on our CD-R on-the-fly write tests, taking just 3 minutes, 15 seconds to copy our 650MB folder of files to CD-R. And compared with the 32X model that this 40X succeeds, the drive bumps up CD-RW support to 12X, resulting in a 10-second improvement over its 10X predecessor in the time required to write 100MB of data to CD-RW using packet writing.

It was, however, marginally behind in our packet writing test; the drive took 1 minute, 8 seconds to write our 100MB folder of files, 2 seconds shy of the fastest competitors. The drive we tested uses a Sanyo mechanism (TDK has a second drive on the market, designated by the underlying name 401248B, that uses a Lite-On drive mechanism).

TDK's software suite here includes Ahead's Nero Burning ROM 5.5 and InCD 3.14, and TDK's own Digital MixMaster audio utility for facilitating digital audio extraction and music recording. Documentation is clearly written and detailed; an installation video is on an included CD-ROM.

WHAT'S NOT: Although adequate, TDK's software bundle has been pared down from past offerings, such as our previous Best Buy, the TDK VeloCD 32/10/40.

WHAT ELSE: The VeloCD carries an industry-standard one-year warranty, and in contrast to other drive vendors, TDK offers toll-free technical support for 10.5 hours each day, including weekends.

UPSHOT: A fast CD-R writer, this VeloCD's quick digital audio extraction time and handy audio software utility makes it a great choice for audio enthusiasts.

SUMMARY

TDK VeloCD 40/12/48 40X/12X/48X, IDE, internal, 2MB buffer, buffer underrun protection, Ahead Nero Burning ROM 5.5 and InCD 3.24, one-year warranty, 10.5-hour daily toll-free support. $135 800/835-8273 www.tdk.com