Sony is one of those companies that tend to manufacturer Classics from time to time. The CDR-W33 is one of those units that Sony really nailed it the first time around. To my knowledge, this is one of two models, that Sony manufactured as a Professional CD-R recorder released at the end of the year in 2000. The second model is the CDR-W66 that ads XLR inputs and outputs and the ability to link two units together with serial RS-232c, and also includes Word Clock. In addition, a 2X speed duplication link for dubbing audio titles is included. The internal 24bit AD/DA conversion is the same on both units.

I have personally owned the CDR-W33 twice and was very lucky to pick up a second unit about 9 years later in almost brand new condition. Since my initial purchase, I have owned Tascam and HHB CD recorders, and wasn't completely satisfied. I missed my beloved CDR-W33.

The on board navigation is the unit's best feature. The keyboard input is definitely a plus, but the CD Text function is the unit's most fun feature. A function that was very missed on the other CD-R recorders I owned. The transport is also totally professional. I felt that the Tascam had a very cheaply made drawer and was a bit flimsy, but not the worse I have ever seen.

There is a very warm, accurate, and precise quality to the recordings of the CDR-W33. In this day in age with USB and Firewire audio interfaces, why would anyone want to use a stand alone CD-R recorder? Well, for some of us out there, we want the feel of hardware, and less mouse clicking. Yes, I can use Sound Forge and plug my mixer into my Motu Ultralite, or Native Instruments Audio 8 like anyone else... Although, there is a sense of old school rawness or robustness of using a stand alone recorder like the old days of DAT or cassette or a reel to reel.

If you can find a Sony CDR-W33 on Ebay or Craigslist, I definitely recommend it. You won't be disappointed. They are solidly built rack mount Professional recorders which unfortunately are not made any longer. They usually go for $300 or less on Ebay. And a bit more for the CDR-W66 if you can find one.

The CDR-W33 makes a great companion to the new Sony PCM-D50 field recorder which will be reviewed very soon. An end user can dump all their field recordings to the PCM-D50 via the analog output to archive their field recording session or live venue capture. Although, ultimately, I think it would be easier to import the recorded material to your computer and save as a .wav and then and burn to CDR. With the CDR-W33 and PCM-D50 there are many options to archive your precious field recordings, forever and ever, and then some.