jonaizen's Full Review: Plextor UltraPleX (PX-32TSE/MAC) CD-ROM Drive
Using the CD reader with a CD burner
I purchased this CD reader because I do a lot of CD-to-CD copying (disc duplication). I found that IDE readers were not capable of reading at speeds consistently fast enough to transfer data to my cd burner, so I opted for a SCSI reader to prevent "coastering" (ruined cd-r discs). The difference is fantastic. I can copy CDs to CDs and use my computer while the copying process is happening. Since SCSI drives are independent (more or less) of your CPU, having a SCSI drive frees your computer up for other tasks, also greatly improving CD reading speeds. A 32x SCSI drive is much, much faster than a 32x IDE drive. The only trade off is in expense - SCSI cd drives are much more expensive. If this is all new to you, I suggest that you read up on SCSI vs. IDE on the web. That said, having a SCSI reader is your best bet if you want to copy CDs to CDs without having to copy the information to your hard drive first. The UltraPlex 32x is a fantastic option for such a drive.
A little about Plextor
Plextor CD readers are hailed as top of the line. Most users report few or no problems with their drives and in the event of issues, Plextor apparently has terrific technical support. I have never had a single issue with either my Plextor UltraPlex or my Plextor CD-R writer (PlexWriter 12/10/32s).
Other uses besides copying cds
SCSI CD-ROM drives are also fantastic for playing games or anything that involves significant reading from discs. The consistent transfer rates obtained with SCSI blow IDE drives out of the water. Again, the UltraPlex 32x is a fantastic choice for its reliability and performance.
Reliability and price
Plextor notes that this drive is rated for 1,000 tray loads (opening and closing the CD-tray), but I have easily loaded 3,000 CDs into this drive without a single problem. I have had the drive for two years and have gotten more than my money's worth. Today the drive is significantly cheaper than when I bought it, so I highly recommend it as a good value for the money.
The only "drawback"
As is the case with all CD-ROM drives, the speed (in this case 32x) is very misleading. This speed refers to burst rate, which is the fastest possible reading. However, if you look closely at the documentation it says the rates are really 14-32x, which is much more true. Furthermore, CDs read faster on the inside (later in the disc) than on the outside. For audio extraction with verification I get rates of 8x-12x. For on the fly burning (CD-to-CD), I can copy CDs at 12x without a problem (which means the the rate never drops below 12x). Bear this tidbit of information in mind as this CD reader probably will not be able to stream data to a CD-writer that writes at 16x, even though it is rated for 32x. Useful information!
The final word
You don't need a faster reader unless you have a 16x+ CD-writer. I would recommend no other company besides Plextor and this reader has served exceptionally well. Look no further!
Epinions.com periodically updates pricing and product information from third-party sources, so some information may be slightly out-of-date. You should confirm all information before relying on it.
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