High-End CD Player Production Halted Over Parts Shortages
Owners of select Naim and PS Audio models may see changes to long-term repair availability for their systems.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Auto Parts
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PS Audio and Naim have ended production of specific high-end CD player models, including the PMG Super Audio CD Transport and the Uniti Star. The manufacturers ceased production after suppliers stopped building the optical drive hardware required for these devices.
Why it matters
The discontinuation stems from the exit of key hardware suppliers, which limits the future availability of components for high-fidelity audio equipment. Because these companies lack the technical capability to build proprietary optical drives, the supply of replacement parts has become constrained.
D&M Holdings stopped accepting orders for SACD/CD mechanisms in July 2024 after costs for the components doubled. While PS Audio purchased the final inventory to support ongoing repairs, integrating any future substitute drives will require new control codes and mechanical redesigns.
The players
PS Audio
A manufacturer of high-end audio equipment known for its legacy in specialized transport and power devices.
Naim
A British manufacturer of premium audio systems and integrated music players with a focus on high-fidelity performance.
D&M Holdings
A component manufacturer that served as a critical supplier of optical disc mechanisms for the global audio industry.
The details
Audio manufacturers integrate optical drives as complex assemblies that rely on specific control codes and mechanical physical matches. When the primary supplier, D&M Holdings, ceased production, the companies could no longer source the original hardware. PS Audio has stockpiled existing components to maintain current repair capabilities, but adapting new drive mechanisms remains a significant technical challenge for high-fidelity equipment makers.
Timeline
June 2024: D&M Holdings announced it would discontinue SACD/CD mechanisms.
July 2024: The deadline passed for manufacturers to place final orders for optical components.
September 2026: The production halts at Naim and PS Audio were formally reported.
The Home Front
The end of these production lines signals a narrowing window for finding proprietary replacement parts for aging high-end audio hardware. This trend mirrors the broader challenges of maintaining complex consumer electronics as component manufacturing shifts away from legacy disc-read technologies.
If you own a PS Audio PMG Super Audio CD Transport or a Naim Uniti Star, contact the manufacturer to confirm current service availability for your unit. Store your equipment in a stable, low-humidity environment to preserve the remaining life of your existing optical drive.
The takeaway
The exit of specialized parts suppliers often signals the end of the traditional repair window for high-end electronic devices. Owners should verify their warranty status and reach out to the manufacturer now to understand how existing component stockpiles will be allocated for future repairs.
Further reading
For more on managing hardware lifecycles, explore the Auto Parts section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Tom's Hardware.
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