Pioneer has announced its new BDXL internal Blu-ray disc drive, the Pioneer BDR-206MBK. The BDR-206MBK is the first drive that can read and write using the new multi-layer recordable Blu-ray Disc format: BDXL integrates additional layers to traditional Blu-ray discs to oferr up to 128GB of storage capacity on a quadruple layer disc. The $200 drive is currently available for purchase at Fry's Electronics and at PioneerElectronics.com.
The BDR-206MBK drive allows users to read and write BD-R XL and BD-RE XL triple layer (100GB) and BD-R XL quadruple layer (128GB) discs. The drive can also play and record on virtually all disc formats including CD, DVD, and Blu-ray. To play 3D video, additional equipment, such as a 3D capable monitor that supports Windows7 3D, is required. The drive does, however, come bundled with CyberLink software to support BDXL and for a limited time, Pioneer is including BD-R XL 100GB media for free with each drive.
The BDR-206MBK also enhances recording accuracy and further limits artificial noise for quality playback using Pioneer's proprietary technologies. Its Limit Equalizer technology improves RF signals generated when reading data from Blu-ray discs and enables improved playback capability. The new airtight structure helps keep the drive quiet and protects against contaminants and dust particles while the Disc Vibration Stabilizer feature helps protect the disc from warping during the writing process.