Dynex DX-DVD1014 Internal DVD-ROM and CD-RW Drive
Date Published: 5/13/08
Dynex offers an assortment of basic computing accessories for low prices, and one good example is the DX-DVD1014 internal combination DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive. Available for under $60, the DX-DVD1014 is a smart option if you want to upgrade the optical drive in your older system that doesn't have the oomph to handle a more robust DVD writer.
The CD-RW side of the DX-DVD1014 burns at a very respectable clip, featuring 52X write and 32X rewrite speeds. These are among the fastest CD-R speeds you can find, and the DX-DVD1014 will burn a full audio or data CD in just a few minutes. The drive also creates backups to rewriteable media at a fast pace, writing a full CD-RW in around 5 minutes. A 2MB buffer to help prevent errors during burns.
The DVD-ROM side of this combination drive lets it play DVD movies, so you can add two functions at once to an older system. There aren't many applications that ship primarily on DVD anymore, but the DX-DVD1014 can also play back home-recorded DVD that you burn on a secondary system or digital camcorder. The drive can recognize most other types of DVD media, including rewritable DVD, so it can be useful for loading large amounts of data onto an older system.
Installing the DX-DVD1014 is a straightforward and painless process. Simply power down your system, remove your old optical drive and replace it with the new drive (or put the DX-DVD1014 in an open bay), connect the power and IDE cables, install the mounting screws and then reboot. Windows will automatically recognize the drive.
The front bezel of the DX-DVD1014 is black, so if you are worried about color schemes, be aware that it may clash with a white or beige tower. There is no headphone jack or volume control on the front of the drive for listening to audio independent of the internal system audio.
Drawbacks aside, if you're looking for a CD-RW drive that burns quickly and has the ability to play DVD movies, the Dynex DX-DVD1014 provides the basics at a good price.
Pros: Fast CD-RW speeds, can also play DVD movies
Cons: No front audio jack or controls
