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Those avid computer users who look for top
quality optical storage drives for their systems usually think of Plextor as
their first or primary option. Although their drives are substantially
higher in price than the competition, they are sure to offer the highest
quality, performance and feature set. Today, we have the pleasure of
reviewing their latest gem, the PX-716A. Capable of supporting 6x double
layer writing, this is currently one of the fastest double layer writers on
the market. Let's take a thorough look and see just how it performs.
Packaging &
Contents
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Unlike the competition, Plextor drives usually ship in retail packaging and
that's how our sample arrived. Upon opening, you'll find lots of goodies,
including a very thorough drive manual, quick reference guide, software disc,
IDE cable, mounting screws, eject tool, black bezel and a Verbatim branded 16x DVD+R disc. If you purchase the retail version from
eWaggle.com, it also
includes a coupon for $25 worth of CDRs/DVDRs for free.
The Drive
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The
front bezel is quite appealing, especially when compared to a majority of the
new drives we have been reviewing lately. It just doesn't look "cheap"
and it isn't either.
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An
added bonus that I think a majority of manufacturers should start doing is
including and optional black bezel in their retail packaging.
Considering a majority of modern systems are black, this is certainly a plus
and somewhat of a necessity nowadays for many users. It's good to see
Plextor and Optorite have taken this route with their retail models.
**click to enlarge**
What's nice about the PX-716A is that it considered a "half-height" drive. This
will take up less space in your case. Although not quite as short as the Lite-ON models, it's still significantly shorter than your standard drive.
**click to enlarge**
Our
sample's label showed a manufactured date of December 2004 and contained its
original firmware.
Specifications
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