TDK 24/10/40 VeloCD ReWriter

WHAT'S HOT: This speedy drive is essentially the same model as last month's number two, except that it has replaced its Sanyo drive mechanism with Lite-On's.

The TDK 24X VeloCD ReWriter performed well on our CD-R write tests: It took 4 minutes, 4 seconds to write a 650MB CD image file to CD-R--fast compared with the other drives on the chart, but 20 seconds slower than the fastest drive, Lite-On's 32X/12X/40X LTR-32123S. The TDK drive wrote a 100MB folder of files to CD-RW using packet writing in 1 minute 18 seconds, beating all other drives but the Lite-On.

TDK provides a generous software suite that includes Ahead's Nero Burning ROM 5.5 and InCD 2.12, and Adobe's Acrobat Reader and ActiveShare. Additional software for fast digital audio extraction and managing and recording music (MP-Frees, MusicMatch Jukebox, and TDK's own Digital MixMaster audio utility) make this model a good choice for digital audio.

WHAT'S NOT: On the pricey side for a 24X drive, the TDK is only $5 cheaper than the 32X Lite-On drive. But you do get better support and documentation for your money.

WHAT ELSE: The VeloCD uses Sanyo's Burn-Proof buffer underrun protection to prevent you from ruining CD-R discs due to interruptions in data flow while burning. It carries an industry-standard one-year warranty, and the vendor offers toll-free technical support for 10.5 hours daily; seven-day support is uncommon among CD-RW vendors. TDK also throws in a CD marking pen--a nice touch for quickly adding handwritten labels to your discs.

UPSHOT: A speedy CD-R writer with topflight performance results, the TDK 24/10/40 VeloCD ReWriter is a great choice for digital audio lovers and data users alike.

SUMMARY

TDK 24/10/40 VeloCD ReWriter 24X/10X/40X, IDE, internal, 2MB buffer, buffer underrun protection, Ahead Nero Burning ROM 5.5 and InCD 2.12; one-year warranty, 10.5-hour daily toll-free support. $145 800/835-8273 www.tdk.com