(September 2, 2025) Magnetar is no stranger to enthusiasts who care about playback quality, and this year at CEDIA Expo, the company is unveiling a major update to its lineup of universal media players. The new MKII Series builds on the award-winning UDP900 and UDP800 platforms, refining both hardware and software in ways that respond directly to integrator and customer feedback. The result is a pair of players engineered to extract every ounce of performance from media, while offering greater flexibility for integration in high-end theaters.
At the foundation of the MKII update is Magnetar’s proprietary video processing engine, which has been reworked to enhance color reproduction, contrast, brightness, and noise reduction. Magnetar says it's improved upscaling performance to set a new standard for how legacy content looks on modern displays. The architecture across the series also benefits from redesigned audio circuits, cleaner signal paths, and noise-resistant connections. Support remains as broad as ever, covering 4K UHD, Blu-ray, SACD, CD, networked media, and high-resolution files, making the MKII players true universal solutions.
Attention to physical build has not been overlooked. Both models incorporate a newly engineered, sound-dampened optical drive designed to deliver quieter, more accurate disc reads. The chassis is made from robust aluminum with dual-layer shielding to suppress electromagnetic interference. Internally, high-purity copper-core conductors and upgraded connectors from JST and Amphenol are used to ensure reliable, interference-free connections. Even the USB 3.0 ports have been redesigned with isolated power supplies and dedicated hub chips to improve stability with external devices.
At the top of the lineup sits the UDP900MKII, Magnetar’s new flagship model. This player is built for reference-level audio and video playback, anchored by a redesigned audio stage with dual ESS 9038 PRO DACs, among the most advanced converters currently available. A dedicated HDMI audio port benefits from TMDS retiming, a measure that virtually eliminates jitter and preserves fine sonic details. On the digital side, advanced XMOS USB audio playback supports formats up to 768 kHz PCM and DSD 512, making the 900MKII equally at home with high-resolution music libraries as it is with Ultra HD Blu-rays. Networking refinements bring expanded functionality, including Roon Ready certification, ensuring integration with music libraries is as seamless as possible. Recognition has already arrived in the form of an EISA Award, which named the UDP900MKII the best home theater disc player of 2025 to 2026.
Priced at $3,299.99, it is aimed squarely at those who want nothing less than uncompromised playback in every respect.
For enthusiasts seeking a more accessible option without losing the DNA of the flagship, the UDP800MKII offers carefully selected upgrades to boost performance. It introduces a new 2.0 audio design that incorporates seven OPA1602 op-amps, chosen for their low noise and high precision characteristics. HDMI jitter correction ensures a cleaner signal path, while expanded shielding reduces electromagnetic interference. Like the flagship, the 800MKII benefits from a quieter, sound-dampened chassis and improved disc mechanics. Copper wiring and upgraded connectors deliver better long-term durability, and networking refinements that include Roon Ready certification make the UDP800MKII a flexible choice for those who want reference-level playback performance at a more attainable price. With an MSRP of $1,799.99, it brings much of the flagship pedigree to a wider audience.
The MKII Series will be available in Q4 2025 through Magnetar’s authorized dealer and distributor network, with both models on display at CEDIA Expo 2025 in booth 4137.
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