Audio Brands Ended CD Player Production

High-end manufacturers have discontinued optical disc drives, shifting home audio systems toward streaming and digital files.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Home Entertainment

Bold vector editorial illustration featuring a lone compact disc and an abstract mechanical lens component on a dark surface, symbolizing the end of optical media. — High-end audio brands like PS Audio and Naim have discontinued CD player production as the global supply chain for optical disc drive components collapses. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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In January 2026, PS Audio halted production of its CD transport, marking a shift in the high-end audio market as essential optical drive components became unavailable. Manufacturers are increasingly removing these mechanisms from their newest streaming amplifiers.

Why it matters

The global collapse of optical disc drive manufacturing means that repair parts for older home audio systems are becoming increasingly difficult to source. This shift forces homeowners to transition their music collections toward digital streaming platforms.

The Naim Uniti Star Lite launched in August 2026 is 2.2 pounds lighter than the original Uniti Star, reflecting the removal of the disc drive mechanism.

The players

PS Audio

A high-end audio manufacturer that creates amplifiers and disc transport equipment.

Naim

A premium audio brand known for its streaming amplifiers and home music systems.

The details

Manufacturers including PS Audio and Naim stopped sourcing optical disc drives because the global supply chain for these mechanical parts has effectively collapsed. Lacking the ability to fabricate these complex components from scratch, audio brands are redesigning hardware. Naim specifically removed the disc drive mechanism from its new amplifiers to reduce internal electrical noise and simplify the device architecture.

In 2023, a Naim representative identified the Teac DVD-ROM drive as a critical component.
PS Audio announced the end of its CD transport production in January 2026.
Naim launched the Uniti Star Lite in August 2026.
PS Audio may potentially launch a new CD transport device in 2027.

The Home Front

The removal of disc drives from high-end audio gear follows the long-term industry trend of phasing out physical media in favor of digital streaming. This transition mirrors the evolution of home computing, where internal disc drives have become obsolete in most modern consumer hardware.

If you rely on physical CDs, consider digitizing your collection now while your existing players are still functional. If you are shopping for a new amplifier, verify whether the unit supports physical media if that remains a requirement for your home setup.

The takeaway

The move toward streaming-only amplifiers highlights a permanent shift away from physical media support in home audio. Check your current system's model number and user manual to determine if it uses common optical drives that could be serviced if a mechanical failure occurs.