Editors' rating: 6.5 Good

The good: Supports all major optical-media types; non-Blu-ray task speeds are acceptable; extensive software package.

The bad: Still very expensive; IDE-only; slow to rip commercial Blu-ray discs; finicky with media brands.

The bottom line: The Sony BWU-100A Blu-ray burner is still priced out of range for most users, but if you have $700 to spare, it's a good choice for its range of media support and acceptable task speeds.

Check prices: http://reviews.cnet.com/dvd-drives/sony-bwu-100a-blu/4014-3212_7-31899197.html

Full review: http://reviews.cnet.com/dvd-drives/sony-bwu-100a-blu/4505-3212_7-31899197.html

Final Cut Studio 2

Final Cut Studio 2 is a tightly integrated software package serving would-be Hitchcocks and Coppolas who edit, mix, grade and produce video and audio.

Editors' rating: 8.0, excellent

The good: Final Cut Studio 2 is a solid value; includes new Color app; new open-format timeline; SmoothCam feature; improves integration throughout the suite; includes 5.1 surround sound support; adds effects and templates.

The bad: Final Cut Studio 2 offers no support for AVCHD, Blu-ray and some professional cameras; lacks previews for exported content; and its complexity might cause beginners to weep.

The bottom line: Final Cut Studio 2 is a solid value and worthy upgrade for serious film editors who work on Macs. However, hobbyists should consider simpler software.

Check prices: http://reviews.cnet.com/arts-music/final-cut-studio-2/4014-8033_7-32423844.html

Full review: http://reviews.cnet.com/arts-music/final-cut-studio-2/4505-8033_7-32423844.html