Xbox 360 HD DVD Drive

Preorders are welcome for Microsoft's HD DVD drive for the Xbox 360 which adds the ability to play HD DVDs to the console. The drive will launch on November 17 in Japan but USA and European versions are expected to ship as well after the Japanese launch. Later this year, MS will also release a software update which allows the Xbox 360 to output 1080p video to an HD compatible monitor. Pricing for the HD DVD drive is JPY19800 or US$205 from NCS - pricing reflects overseas carriage charges.

With the Toshiba HD-XA1 selling for about US$600 currently, the Xbox 360 HD DVD drive serves an economical way for consumers to get into the HD-DVD market without having to purchase a bulky second player. Preorders are welcome today to ship on or around November 17. Please note that the Japanese HD DVD player will work with USA and European Xbox 360 consoles.