Collapse of mainstream optical drive supply kills high-end CD players — PS Audio and Naim halt production as component costs double
PS Audio and Naim had to cease production of two Hi-Fi models as manufacturers quit making optical drives, even as CD and vinyl have hit record sales in recent months.
High-end audio brands PS Audio and Naim have halted production of their premium CD players and transports due to a collapse in the mainstream optical drive supply chain. This has caused component costs to double and made it difficult to source necessary hardware for these sophisticated devices. The issue stems from a lack of optical drives tailored for modern computers, with one major supplier, D&M Holdings, ceasing production of its SACD/CD mechanism in June 2024.
PS Audio's CEO, Paul McGowan, confirmed that the company was unable to find suitable replacements for its PMG Super Audio CD Transport, as building its own optical disc reader goes beyond its electronic and software expertise. Similarly, Naim's Uniti Star Streaming Amplifier, which relied on an optical drive from an alternative supplier, has also faced difficulties, as the alternative drive model no longer exists and integrating a different model would require significant modifications.
While new customers can still purchase these high-end products, existing owners should note that components may need to be repaired rather than replaced, as the companies maintain limited inventory for servicing purposes.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Hardware's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
