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Sony RCD-W500C cd recorder review

Posted to Audio Components 2010-05-07

The Sony RCD-W500C is a new dual deck, 5CD player/recorder from Sony. It features 4X high-speed dubbing, can be used with CD-R and CD-RW discs, and can play back CD, CD-R, CD-RW and MP3 discs. Other features include high-speed finalizing, Super Bit Mapping technology, which reduces low-level background noise in the recording, and 24-step program play.

The RCD-W500C also features two-mode repeat play (track/disc), one-touch synchro-start recording, which minimizes the gap between recorded songs on the disc, and a full-featured remote control. The device features 24-bit A/D and D/A converters, a fluorescent display and a headphone jack with its own volume control. The unit also features gold-plated contacts on all audio connections. I/O includes digital optical in and out, and analog audio in and out.

Rating:

3.2 out of 5

Quality

RCD-W500C users have reported quite a few problems with the unit, mostly involving hanging and problems finalizing discs. Most have shown up early in the warranty period, and Sony service centers have been quick to repair or replace the units, but there do seem to be a few issues with quality. That being said, those users that reported no problems seem to be extremely satisfied with the unit. A few users have also reported mechanical problems with the changer units.

Ergonomics

Users of the RCD-W500C also report quite a few problems with usability. The unit is very noisy when compared to the competition, and the fluorescent display provides sometimes cryptic information, making the unit difficult to use. In addition, the manual is poorly written. That being said, these types of problems are unusual with Sony products, and many users are quite satisfied with the unit once they get used to its quirks.

Summary

There doesn't seem to be much middle ground among RCD-W500C users. Either they have problems from the beginning, or they're highly satisfied with the unit. The features and performance of the unit are excellent if you get one without problems, so it's probably best to buy this unit from a store with a liberal return policy, and be prepared for the fact that it may have to spend some time in the repair shop.

Pros

Dual 5-CD changers
4X high-speed dubbing
24 bit D/A and A/D converters

Cons

Many users report problems
Usability also a problem

Recommended accessory:

Monster Cable I300MKII-2M : Solid Core Technology Audio Interconnect (2 meter/ 6.56 ft)