Optical drive shortage threatens repairability of new CD players

Even as optical media sees a resurgence and new CD players launch, some optical drive makers have ended production. PS Audio and Naim halted output of high-end CD players, and of eight new models four are Musical Fidelity, two Marantz, one each Arcam and NAD.

• PS Audio ended PMG Super Audio CD Transport production after D&M stopped external drive orders
• Naim halted Uniti Star after its replacement supplier also stopped making needed parts
• Of eight new CD players, four are Musical Fidelity, two Marantz, one each Arcam and NAD
• Marantz builds its drives in-house; other makers did not disclose suppliers