Sony Electronics today introduced its next generation of DVD+RW drives, which now also support write-once recording on DVD+R discs. Both the DRU-120A ATAPI internal model and the DRX-120L i.LINK external burner combine DVD+RW/+R and CD-R/RW recording with DVD-ROM and CD-ROM playback - all in one device that delivers compelling features for burning DVDs and CDs.

The new DVD+RW/+R and CD-R/RW combo drives and software suite enable users to seamlessly back-up or store up to 4.7GB of computer data on a disc, transfer and convert more than two hours of high quality (MPEG-2) digital video footage from a camcorder or VCR, and play back DVD-ROM and CD-ROM discs.

Both models support up to 2.4X maximum writing speed for DVD+R/+RW discs, 12X maximum recording speed for CD-R discs, and 10X maximum recording speed for CD-RW discs. For users of i.LINK (IEEE 1394)-equipped PCs, the DRX-120L provides the convenience of plug-and-play connectivity and the ability to daisy-chain other i.LINK devices (such as DV camcorders) to the drive.

DVD+R media, with its write-once capabilities, offers users an alternative to DVD+RW media for permanent storage applications or for sharing content with others, due in part to their enhanced compatibility with existing DVD-Video players and DVD-ROM drives. DVD+RW media is fully re-writable, and is ideally suited for data back-up and personal storage.

"Already, consumers are realizing the benefits of DVD+RW technology," said Toshi Naito, vice president of Component Solutions for Sony Electronics' Core Technology Solutions Company. "With the introduction of a new software suite and a plug-and-play i.LINK DVD+RW drive, we are making it even easier for consumers to take full advantage of the multi-faceted benefits of CD and DVD recording."

The Sony DRU-120A will be available in May for a suggested retail price of $499.99, and the DRX-120L model drive will be available in June for a suggested retail price of $599.99. Sony DVD+RW drives are sold through resellers and retailers nationwide, mail order catalogs, and select online shopping sites, including SonyStyle.com. Sony supports what it calls "worry-free" installation and easy operation with toll-free customer and technical service, Monday through Saturday, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. CST, along with a one-year limited warranty from the original date of purchase.