Digital Trends

Plextor PlexWriter PX-504UF August 25th, 2003 | by Ian Bell

Introduction

This past April we had the opportunity to review Plextor's new PlexWriter PX-504A internal DVD+R drive and today we get a chance to review the external version of this very same drive, called the PlexWriter PX-504UF, featuring both USB 2.0 and FireWire interfaces. If you get a chance to read our original PlexWriter PX504A review, you will recall that we were noticeably harsh on Plextor for failing to include any recordable media or an audio cable. This time around however, Plextor has included not only a complete software bundle for both PC and Mac operating systems, but they have also included both CD-R and DVD+R recordable media.

Features and design

Since the PlexWriter PX-504UF is basically the same drive as the internal PX-504A with an updated firmware, the rated drive speeds are nearly identical meaning the PlexWriter PX-504UF supports 4X DVD+R and 2.4X DVD+RW writing speeds as well as 16X CD-R and 10X CD-RW writing speeds. Included with the PlexWriter PX-504UF is Roxio's Easy CD Creator 5 DVD Edition and Photosuite 5SE, Dantz Retrospect backup software, Roxio's Toast 5 Lite for Mac OS 9.1 or higher, and Plextor's very own Plextools. Plextor also made sure to include both USB and FireWire cables, CD-R and DVD-R recordable media and a very detailed instruction manual.

The PlexWriter PX-504UF drive itself features a 2MB internal buffer with Plextor's very own PowerRec technology to provide a stable burn at high speeds. The front of the PlexWriter PX-504UF features a headphone jack and volume control. Located on the back of the PlexWriter PX-504UF is where you will find both FireWire and USB plugs, a toggle switch and RCA audio outputs so you can play back music to your soundcard or an external amplifier. The PlexWriter PX-504UF records DVD's using the DVD+R/RW format so if you have DVD-R/RW media you would like to use, you are unfortunately out of luck. Dual DVD+ - /RW drives are becoming more common yet still have a higher price attached to them. If we had to pick between the two formats, we would choose the DVD+R/RW format for increased compatibility with DVD-ROM drives and home DVD players.

PlexWriter PX-504UF using the horizontal stand

The PlexWriter PX-504UF is pleasant to look at and features an elliptical faceplate covered in a thick clear plastic with curved sides which gives a sophisticated look to it. The drive can be mounted horizontally using the included stand and helps to give the PlexWriter PX-504UF a more aesthetic look.