This drive was just reviewed on Anandtech. The thing I find interesting about it is that it only has two platters for 250 gigs where as the SE16 line uses 3 platters for 250 gigs.

I was thinking about buying an SE16 based on the SPCR review but now I'm thinking that this may be the way to go.

http://www.anandtech.com/storage/showdoc.aspx?i=2784

well the SE16 500GB tested on SPCR is a FOUR platter driver and still on par with SP80(1 platter) so why would a WD2500KS 3-platter be a problem?

I am myself looking at either WD2500KS or T7K250 but Im kind of curious about next-gen Hitachis (T7K500) waiting around the corner!
http://www.hitachigst.com/portal/site/e ... 0eac4f0a0/

I didn't say 3 platters would be a problem , but lower platter count for the same capacity is better for noise because there are less heads to move when seeking.

It is also better for performance because you have a higher density platter.

There are also less parts to fail.....a bit less power....

Sorry, I didnt see your comment on the YD having 2 platters. Could also be a typo on Anandtech or WD's website lying with old specs (WD2500KS not having 3 platters anymore?). Some manufacturers seem to change platters without notice, without launching a new model.