Hi-Fi CD Player Makers Halt Models as Optical Drive Parts Vanish
PS Audio and Naim have stopped production of two high-end audio components because their optical drive suppliers exited the market. The companies say replacement parts are unavailable, and building their own drives is not feasible. Component costs doubled as remaining buyers rushed to stockpile before the last supplier stopped taking orders.
The shutdown traces to D&M Holdings, parent of Denon and Marantz, which stopped accepting orders for its SACD/CD mechanisms in mid-2024. That single supplier's exit triggered a buying scramble among remaining manufacturers, doubling component prices as firms placed last-chance orders. PS Audio purchased Marantz's entire remaining inventory, while Naim explored a substitute drive supplier only to see that alternative also cease production.
Both companies emphasize that optical drives are complex assemblies requiring custom control codes and mechanical integration, making simple swaps impractical. PS Audio's CEO notes the firm's expertise lies in electronics and software, not mechanical drive manufacturing. Fortunately, both brands maintain repair inventories, so existing owners can still have failed units serviced despite the production halts.
This supply chain collapse could accelerate the decline of physical media in premium audio, potentially pushing more audiophiles toward streaming or digital files. Existing owners may face eventual repair limits as spare parts dwindle, creating planned obsolescence for expensive equipment. The broader market may see consolidation among remaining Hi-Fi brands, with smaller manufacturers unable to secure scarce optical components. Collectors and enthusiasts who value ownership could find their options narrowing, though the niche's resilience suggests some demand may shift to used markets or boutique alternatives.