Variations of SONY DRU-500

[SaSi]

I have seen posts related to the SONY burner, however I am starting to get lost between the variations.

I have a DRU-500A, and have seen variations like
DRU-500AX
DRU-500UL
DRU-500ULX
could be more.

It would be interesting if owners of different variations of the drive explained the models they own. For everyone to understand the differences.

To start the thread, the DRU-500A I have is an internal IDE drive that came with a 1.0d version. Have upgraded to version 1.0g with marginally better compatibility.

[SLICK RICK]

I have the DRX-500ULX and it is the external model,purchased from BestBuy for $429.00 + tax.

[zerogravity22]

I too own the DRX500ULX, and am happy with my purchase. From what I've read, the DRX500ULX and the DRU500AX, have replaced the older DRU500A and DRX500UL models, but the only real difference I see between the newer and the older models is that that newer ones have just been flashed with the latest firmware that you can just download off the sony site if you own either the DRU500A or the DRX500UL. The older drives are manufactured in Japan as the newer "X" models are made in Malaysia... Hope that helps...

[donpedro]

A - First internal model
UL - First external USB and FireWire model (same as A but in box)
AX or ULX - Same as above but with new 4x +R firmware allready marked on the box with correct firmware. A and UL can be upgraded to same firmware.

I am not aware of any other differences. If there are any, let me know.