New 8X DVD +/- Drive (TDK)

[controller]

Hi All.

This being my first post I might as well let you know that today I purchased a new TDK IndiDVD Internal 8X DVD +/- R/RW drive. The model # is 840G and is not listed on any TDK website yet. In fact, I'm not sure it was even announced.

I purchased it at a local Best Buy, who also doesn't have it listed at their Website, for $250 US (which was cheaper than the Plextor at the store at $280 US. I suspect online prices will be cheaper.)

The drive comes with a Roxio suite of software, a 4X DVD+R and 4X DVD-R TDK branded disc, and lots of paper docs.

The specs of the drive (8x DVD+R, 4X DVD+/-R, 4X DVD+RW, 2X DVD-RW, 12X DVD-ROM, 40X CDR, 24X CDRW, 40X CD Read) mirror the Plextor 708A because, well, it IS the 708A (with a black bezel and TDK logos.) Though the drive shows up as a TDK in Nero, etc... I am 100% positive it is a Plextor 708A because the drive looks identical and also functions identically.

The drive ships with Firmware 1.02, which I assume is the same as the Plextor 1.02 firmware but rebranded to read "TDK". It shows as manufactured in October, 2003 in China.

The drive ships with a list of recommended media for all speeds, including 8x +R, and it too is identical to Plextor's 708A list.

I tested with a number of different discs. I used Ritek G03s DVD-R discs (which burned at 2X), TDK 4X DVD+R discs (Ricohjpnr01 I believe), which burn consistently at 8X, Apple 4X DVD-R which burned at 4X, and Fuji DVD+RW (which burned at 2.4x).

I tested with Nero, and DVDXcopy Express... latest versions, and had no problems.

I tried to install the 1.03 firmware from Plextor for kicks and got the error "no drive found".

Oh well. I see the 1.02 firmware is pretty good and stable and offers a lot of media compatability (I tend not to use esoteric brands) and it is performing well so I'm happy.


-P

[controller]

FYI - a follow up. This drive is now listed on TDK's website.

I am positive it is a Plextor 708A drive, and performs well.

Incidentally, It lists for $279 on TDK's website, but my local Best BUy is selling it for $250.

This may be a way for people to get the Plextor 708A a good amt. cheaper at retail with a black bezel, two recordable discs, and a bit more software.

-P

[The village idiot]

Neat, thanks!