Disc-Go-Pod Plus

By: CARL CORTEZ
Review Date: Friday, April 14, 2006

We're in the "disc" age. Tapes are obsolete and as most of our media is now being stored on CDs and DVDs, sometimes there needs to be a bigger solution to all the imperfections and flaws that come from handling wear and tear. Now there's a solution.

It may be a bit on the pricey side, but DISC-GO-POD PLUS is one of the best DVD/CD/video game repairing gadgets around.

Many cheaper, low end disc repair machines barely scratch the surface when it comes to repairing discs, but Disc-Go-Pod really gets the job done. It repairs light, medium and heavy damaged discs including fingerprints, scratches and dirt.

During our tests, the machine did its job and then some. Our biggest task a CD-R that we poked with pens, scratched with scissors and literally ran through the wringer. It didn't recognize the data once it was put back into the computer, so we did the five-minute Disc-Go-Pod cycle, wiped off the excess cleaning solution and put it back in the computer. The damage was so deep, it needed a longer cycle (there's 5, 10 and 15 minute cycles depending on the damage). We screwed this disc up really good, so back it went into the machine for another ten minutes. And surprisingly, it fixed the problems. While the scratches were still evident on the disc itself, the data was miraculously readable on the computer.

The key to this machine is its special solution that filters through the system as it buffers a disc. It really digs deep into a disc, without damaging it and is a lifesaver in saving valuable material.

The set-up is easy. You take your disc, clamp it into the machine and press play. A cleaning solution is dropped into a container in the back, which filters through during the cleaning process. You can set the machine for three different cycles lasting anywhere between 5 to 15 minutes apiece.

The only thing it doesn't do, is magically glue back those discs you accidentally cracked pulling out of their CD/DVD packages but I wouldn't be surprised if that upgrade isn't coming around the corner any day. I can see it now: The DISC-GO-POD PLUS for people who still have 8 Track tapes and don't quite understand that CDs and DVDs are way too fragile

While the DISC-GO-POD delivers on its promise to fix discs, there are a couple of

downsides. First off, there isn't a clear on/off button. The machine activates only when plugged in, which seems a bit silly. And if you're just doing one disc at a time, emptying the fluid and cleaning after each use can be a bit of a hassle, so if you're going to get maximum use out of it repair multiple discs in one sitting.

Also, during one of our tests, a disc ended up with black scuffmarks on it, though it didn't seem to affect the actual play of the disc (this likely came from clamping the disc in a little too tight). We did put it back in the machine for another cycle, and those marks were eliminated pretty quickly. We do recommend though trying a couple sample discs before you try to repair your most valuable items, that way you can ensure the right balance.

Although there are cheaper units out there, which take care of minor flaws and nicks on recorded media, this unit is really designed and priced for those that really want to salvage those completely obliterated discs on a more frequent basis. Or if you're smart, a way to make some money on the side is repairing discs for your buddies think of the hourly charges you could rack up with this puppy in your possession and you can pay it off with only a few paying customers.

In the end, DISC-GO-POD PLUS is a godsend for those that need to recover damaged data, music, movies or games. Anyone who thought their coveted discs were ruined or parents who have toddlers who don't quite understand what happens when you use DVD's as a toy, this product will solve all those problems and more.

Now if someone can come out with a product to fix those cracked and broken discs, what a wonderful world this would be indeed.

For more information check out www.discgopod.com