The Blu-ray technology allows for the maximum data-storage capacities attained so far by solid disks. This technology is the only one truly suitable for the storage and playback of high-definition audio and video files. With more and more playback devices with built-in Blu-ray support being launched on the open market, Buffalo introduced its own product, the BR-X816U2, meant to provide customers with the possibility to make their own HD multimedia disks.

"More and more people are expecting to watch their favourite films in high definition quality and more PCs and televisions are now supporting this," Paul Hudson, Northern European sales director, Buffalo Technology, said. "This new external Blu-ray drive provides consumers with a low-cost option for watching their own high definition content and taking advantage of the latest technology."

Backwards compatible with regular CDs and DVDs, the optical drive runs at speeds of 8x for BD-R/-R DL, 2x for BD-RE/-RE DL, 16x for DVD-R/+R, 8x for DVD+RW, 6x for DVD-RW, 5x for DVD-RAM, 4x for DVD-R/+R DL, 32x for CD-R and 24x for CD-RW. As if this wasn't already enough, the drive comes with a CyberLink software suite. This includes the PowerDirector, PowerProducer, PowerDVD, Power2Go, PowerBackup, InstantBurn and MediaShow. With these assuring the optimum allocation of energy for each task, users can expect a smooth performance and full functionality.

With this wide range of support, buyers can easily store their hard-drive data and play HD media files. In addition, they can scribe their favorite videos and music files on disks for use on any Blu-ray-supporting media players, including DVD players, stereos, etc.

For an optimum usability, the drive connects to the system through a USB 2.0 port, with Buffalo's own TurboUSB feature boosting data-transfer rates beyond the conventional, already-impressive speeds of regular USB 2.0.

The retail price of the Buffalo BR-X816U2 is of $260 and it is already available on the Japanese market. When, and if, it will be introduced for sale in other countries has yet to be revealed.