Pioneer has introduced with the X13 series their latest CD-DA extraction mechanism, that is called "PureRead" (Source 1 and 2) and steps up to version 4+. You can read more about this technology at our related article.

A summary of Pioneer's PureRead technologies from v1 up to v4 can be summarized below:

• Pure Read: On CD ripping, when read error happens, change one read parameter from the parameter candidate (rotation speed, pickup parameters etc) and retry read
• Pure Read+: Drive remembers Pure Read settings.
• Pure Read 2+: Added new read parameter to some specific disc conditions.
• Pure Read 3+: Introduces Pure Read on real-time CD playback , Real Time Pure Read.
• Pure Read 4+: When read error happens, change 2 or more parameters and retry.

• Standard Mode (PureRead OFF): On CD ripping, when C2 error happens, interpolate sample gap and read continues.
• Master Mode: On CD ripping, when read error happens, change read parameter and retry (Pure Read). if several retry failed, interpolate sample gap and read continues.
• Perfect Mode: Same as “Master Mode” but when several retry failed, reports read error to OS and stop ripping.
• Real Time Pure Read: When app plays CD on real-time, drive detect it and enable real-time flavor of Pure Read (retry read and when deadline missed, interpolate the gap).

In order to test PureRead 4+, first we used the ABEX TCD-714 and with the Pioneer drive and the EAC Secure function we ripped the "secure" audio contents of the Audio CD. Then by using both Abex TCD-721 and TCD-726 test discs with the Pioneer drive and ripping them with EAC BURST function we got several files that we will be compared afterwards with the DeltaWave Audio Null Comparator to check how many differences are and they will audible for end users. Lastly, we used the Nero CD-DVD Advanced DAE Tests to check how PureRead 4+ affects the overall score or not.

The Pioneer PureRead 4+ function can be disabled with the Pioneer BD Drive Utility, enable it at Perfect Mode or Master Mode (+ Real Time Pure Read).

Using the ABEX TCD-726 with Nero CD-DVD Speed gives us some first results.

The PureRead 4+ Master mode with RealTime Plus gave the best overall score with high C2 accuracy and quality score.

Then we ripped the contents of the Abex TCD-726 and we compared each track with go from the Abex TCD-714R, which includes the same disc contents, but without defects. EAC after each rip give us a log that states if the track is accurate rip or not, at least according to each algorithms. We also compared all tracks with DeltaWare software that can compare WAV files and report back the match % and its own PK Meter that represents the possibility to hear hiss/clicks/distortion. The higher negative values the better, the lower (towards zero) the worst. A good value would be below 150dBFS. Also best case scenario would be to have all tracks 100% match with -∞dBFS value.

Pioneer worked it magic and as it seems it gives the best overall and close to accurate rips of the Abex TCD-726 especially with the Master+Real Time Mode, since in most cases tracks ripped accurately. EAC burst should be avoided with damaged discs as was expected as well as Perfect Pioneer mode as well. Strange for us that EAC Secure didn't performed as we hoped it would...