Magnetar Unveils MKII Series Universal Media Players
Magnetar has introduced two new universal media players — the UDP800 MKII and the flagship UDP900 MKII — designed to deliver uncompromised audio precision and stunning UHD image on physical media. With features such as Roon-Ready certification, HDMI audio-retiming, 4K up-scaling, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, the models aim to bridge the gap between audiophile hi-fi rigs and advanced home-cinema systems. Available from Q4 2025, they demonstrate that despite the streaming era physical media playback remains the reference for highest fidelity.
- Magnetar introduces the UDP800 MKII and UDP900 MKII universal media players, offering premium audio boards, 4K/HDR video processing and control-system integration for hi-fi and home-cinema use, available Q4 2025.
Magnetar Technology Co. Ltd. known in recent years for its high-end disc-player designs focused on superior audio and video performance, now presents its MKII generation of universal media players. At a time when streaming dominates the market, the new MKII models underscore Magnetar’s conviction that physical media remain the playback reference. Positioned at the intersection of audiophile hi-fi and immersive home cinema, the UDP800 MKII and UDP900 MKII address users who demand the highest fidelity from both music and film sources, and expect seamless integration into customised AV installations.
Key Facts
- Models: UDP800 MKII and UDP900 MKII
- Target audience: Audiophiles and home-cinema enthusiasts
- Highlights: Newly designed audio boards, USB 3.0 with isolated power supply, HDMI audio-retiming, full control-system compatibility (Control4, Crestron)
- Video processing: 4K up-scaling, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
- Audio formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS Virtual:X
- Availability: From the 4ᵗʰ quarter of 2025
- Pricing: UDP800 MKII approx. US$ 1.799,99; UDP900 MKII approx. US$ 3.299,99
Design & Build Quality
Both MKII models embody a chassis architecture and internal layout that prioritise signal integrity, mechanical and electrical isolation as well as premium materials. The UDP800 MKII features an over-hauled audio board utilising seven OPA1602 operational amplifiers and high quality copper wiring, Amphenol and JST connectors to ensure stable signal paths. In the UDP900 MKII, the build advances further, with a reinforced dual-mono chassis, extensive copper wiring, shielding and an elaborate power-supply design aimed at maximal channel separation and minimal noise floor.
In practical terms, this means that the devices not only look refined on a rack, but deliver the kind of precision that makes differences audible and visible. For owners of both stereo hi-fi systems and multi-channel home-cinema rigs, integration is aided by both symmetrically (XLR) and unsymmetrically (Cinch) analogue outputs, as well as full digital connectivity.
Technical Architecture and Features
On the video side, both the UDP800 MKII and the UDP900 MKII use video-engines that perform 4K up-scaling of lower-resolution sources, and process HDR10, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision content — resulting in more vivid colours, better contrast and smoother motion when used with modern 4K/UHD displays or projectors. For the audiophile user, the UDP900 MKII is equipped with dual ESS9038PRO DAC chips in combination with an XMOS interface able to handle Linear PCM signals up to 32 Bit und 768 kHz and DSD audio up to DSD512.
The UDP800 MKII meanwhile uses a TI PCM1795 Burr-Brown DAC and offers USB 3.0 connectivity with an isolated power supply to enhance compatibility with external storage media and reduce jitter. Both models implement HDMI-audio retiming to reduce jitter-induced artefacts in the audio signal path and thereby improve clarity, spatiality and precision in sound reproduction. The support for current multi-channel audio formats (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS Virtual:X) ensures they remain future-proof and capable of delivering immersive surround sound for both music and film.
Smart Integration and Control
Acknowledging that modern installations often demand seamless network and automation integration, Magnetar equips both MKII players with compatibility for Control4 and Crestron control systems, plus network-functions such as Wake-on-LAN in the UDP900 MKII. The USB 3.0 port with isolated current feed not only elevates external storage reliability but positions these players as central media-hubs for hi-res audio files, UHD Blu-rays or SACDs. The Roon-Ready certification (pending or completed) extends the scope from disc-based playback toward network-streaming ecosystems — meaning users can incorporate the device into their multi-room audio system without sacrificing the physical-media strength.
Practical Use in Daily Operation
In real-world use, the UDP800 MKII and UDP900 MKII immediately deliver sensation of responsiveness and integration flexibility. In a stereo hi-fi set-up, the analogue XLR or Cinch outputs feed an existing high‐end amplifier to deliver tight, transparent sound. In a home cinema environment with large projection screen or projector, the advanced video processing unfolds its strength: refined motion, deep black levels and vivid colours underscore why physical media still hold the edge in quality.
The USB port with isolated power supply ensures smooth playback even from high-capacity external drives containing high-resolution audio files. Control-system integration allows these players to be operated from a unified remote or automation system — a practical boon in installation-heavy rooms. For users, this means the device not only sounds and looks superior, but also behaves as a fully integrated component in advanced AV setups.
Price & Availability
The new Magnetar MKII series will arrive in the 4ᵗʰ quarter of 2025. The UDP800 MKII is priced at approximately US$ 1.799,99 and the flagship UDP900 MKII at about US$ 3.299,99. Euro-prices for Austria and Germany have not yet been announced but are expected to follow shortly before market launch.
Conclusion
With the MKII-generation of universal media players, Magnetar delivers devices that blur the line between audiophile hi-fi and high-end home cinema. Both models show a clear focus on precision, material quality and versatile connectivity. For users who value the best possible reproduction of physical media and demand seamless integration in complex AV environments, the UDP800 MKII and UDP900 MKII make a convincing case. In an era dominated by streaming, Magnetar proves that the path of uncompromised playback fidelity remains open — and still leads through the disc tray.
| Product | Magnetar UDP800 MKII and Magnetar UDP900 MKII |
|---|---|
| Price | Magnetar UDP800 MKII US$ 1.799,99 Magnetar UDP900 MKII US$ 3.299,99 |
Technical Data
| Product | UDP800 MKII | UDP900 MKII |
|---|---|---|
| Supported formats | UHD Blu-ray, Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, SACD, CD, AVCHD, Kodak Picture CD | Same as left |
| D/A conversion | TI PCM1795 Burr-Brown | Dual ESS9038PRO DACs |
| Audio outputs | XLR (sym.), Cinch (unsym.), optical & coaxial digital | XLR (sym.), Cinch (unsym.), 7.1 analogue Cinch, optical & coaxial digital |
| Video outputs | HDMI (4K UHD, HDR10+, Dolby Vision) | HDMI (4K UHD, HDR10+, Dolby Vision) |
| Audio performance | 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±0,05 dB), S/N ≥ 120 dB, THD+N ≤ 0,01 %, Dynamics ≥ 120 dB | 20 Hz – 50 kHz (±0,01 dB), S/N ≥ 120 dB (Cinch)/≥130 dB (XLR), THD+N ≤ 0,0005 %, Dynamics ≥ 130 dB |
| USB interface | USB 3.0 with isolated power supply | USB 3.0 with isolated power supply, Linear PCM up to 32 Bit und 768 kHz, DSD up to DSD512 |
| Control & integration | Control4, Crestron, (Roon-Ready in certification) | Control4, Crestron, Roon-Ready (in certification), Wake-on-LAN |
| Power supply / consumption | AC 100 – 240 V / < 30 W | AC 110 – 240 V / < 40 W |
| Dimensions (W × D × H) | 430 × 300 × 90 mm | 445 × 321 × 133 mm |
| Weight | approx. 6,8 kg | approx. 15,4 kg |
| Brand | Magnetar Technology Co. Ltd. |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Magnetar Technology Co. Ltd. |
| Distribution | Audio Reference GmbH |
| More about this manufacturer at HiFi BLOG |
