Katarzyna Petru
During the CEDIA Expo 2025 in Denver, the Hong Kong brand Magnetar showcased two high-end Blu-ray players – UDP900MKII and UDP800MKII. These are successors to the models UDP900 and UDP800 from 2023, which will be discontinued.
Professional features and format support
The MKII series is equipment aimed at the most demanding users. Both players support SACD, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, as well as spatial audio Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. This is a clear signal that physical media still have a future despite the dominance of streaming.
Both models offer redesigned USB 3.0 ports and are described as “Roon Ready”, meaning they have native support for Roon audio streaming, ensuring high-quality music playback.
Magnetar UDP900MKII – premium audio model
The flagship UDP900MKII is equipped with dual ESS 9038 Pro DAC converters, a dedicated HDMI eARC port for audio input, and support for playback via XMOS USB. It enables high-resolution audio playback – up to 768 kHz PCM and 512 DSD. This is a nod to audiophiles seeking maximum quality.
Magnetar UDP800MKII – optimised stability
The UDP800MKII model focuses on stability and noise reduction. Seven operational amplifiers OPA1602 lower the noise and HDMI jitter levels. Additionally, EMI shielding has been improved and the casing has been redesigned, resulting in quieter and more stable disc playback.
Prices and Availability
For the new flagship UDP900MKII, Magnetar is asking 3299 USD (approx. 2440 GBP), while the UDP800MKII is priced at 1799 USD (approx. 1330 GBP). Sales in the USA will start in the coming weeks.
The manufacturer has confirmed that following the launch in the States, the players will also be available in other markets – including Europe, the United Kingdom, Poland, and Australia. Exact dates have yet to be revealed, but distribution in these regions is expected to commence within a few months of the American debut.
This means that fans of physical media in key markets will be able to access the new models, even as more and more companies are withdrawing from the Blu-ray segment.
Blu-ray is still alive
Although LG, Pioneer and the French company Reavon have exited the market, Magnetar – alongside Sony and Panasonic – remains one of the last players in the Blu-ray player segment. Additionally, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X consoles still support playback of physical media. The new MKII series clearly demonstrates that high-end players still have their place.
