Sony Electronics will begin shipping a new generation of dual-format, DL-capable DVD±R/RW drives in February 2005. The internal DRU-720A and external DRX-720UL will feature 4X DVD+R DL, 16X DVD±R, 8X DVD+RW, 6X DVD-RW, 48X CD-R, and 24X CD-RW writing speeds. Sony will bundle the full Nero software package and promises enhanced DL disc playback compatibility with home DVD players.

The internal ATAPI DRU-720A features a black replacement bezel, and will hit store shelves in early February for an estimated selling price of $129 plus an additional $30 mail-in rebate. Sony will begin taking pre-orders on SonyStyle.com this week. The DRX-720UL will offer both i.LINK and USB 2.0 connectivity and a vertical design, and will ship in late February for $149 plus $30 mail-in rebate.

www.sonystyle.com