Doing everything it can to justify the Pro label. Gear Pro is one of two proprietary burning apps in this test, and is the more senior of the pair. It's aimed at advanced users, so it's overkill for burning the odd CD or DVD.
It supports almost all sorts of CD/DVD burning media out there, but not HD formats. The interface isn't the easiest to navigate, and it stands out from the rest of the desktop. If you ignore all the options, you can still create a CD/DVD in a couple of clicks, but that would be missing the whole point.
After all, this is an app that can simulate the burning process, test media for its recording speed and do C2 error checking on the data if your drive supports it.
Gear Pro can create multisession discs with ease, as well as hybrid discs that contain audio data mixed with an ISO or UDF image. The tool lacks an audio CD ripper, but it can copy CDs and DVDs on the fly.
It can also format all types of discs using the following file extensions: ISO9660, Universal Disc Format, Rockridge and Joliet. Similarly, it supports lots of recording methods, including fixed and variable packet writing, which are ideal for reducing buffer underruns.
One of Gear Pro's highlight features – underlining its professional status – is its ability to create DDP master images to enable it to easily replicate all types of optical media. It can also take charge of a media changer via its jukebox feature and control the autoloader to replicate discs automatically.
In terms of documentation, the help menu mentions a bundled user manual, but it doesn't exist. However, there's some basic information on the website, and the app itself is littered with lots of helpful and detailed tooltips.
Verdict - Gear Pro
This app's ideal for replicating optical media and a must-have if you've got media changers.
Version: 5.10
Website: www.gearsoftware.com/pro-linux.php
Price: £319
Rating: 7/10
