Optical drives are still practical for many users, whether to play old CDs and DVDs, install software, or create backups—especially with modern laptops, which are usually supplied without a drive.

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› By Brent Butterworth Brent Butterworth is a writer dedicated to audio gear. He ...

At $359, the Shanling CD80 II combines hi-res CD / media playback, dual headphone amps, and Bluetooth for modern or vintage hi-fi setups. Why are CD players making a comeback? Unlike vinyl—where the ...

Ditch the buffering and data costs. Discover why the humble USB stick is actually the ultimate high-fidelity choice for your ...

The FiiO DM13 is probably the fists high-end portable CD player to be launched in more than a decade or two. Recently, audio brand FiiO announced a see-through Walkman-style cassette player. The ...