A magnetar is a type of neutron star with an extremely powerful magnetic field
In the world of high-fidelity audio and video, few brands have left as indelible a mark as Oppo Digital. From the early 2000s through 2018, Oppo's universal disc players set the benchmark for versatility and performance, seamlessly handling everything from SACD and DVD-Audio to emerging Blu-ray formats. When Oppo ceased manufacturing, it created a void for enthusiasts who prized physical media's precision and depth. Enter Magnetar, a Hong Kong-based innovator that has methodically built on that foundation, refining engineering principles to deliver players that honor Oppo's spirit while advancing into modern demands.
Magnetar's approach is analytical at its core: each model dissects playback challenges—jitter, distortion, format compatibility—and addresses them with targeted upgrades. This evolution ensures that physical media remains a viable, high-performance option amid streaming's rise. At All Elite Audio, we're proud to carry Magnetar's lineup, including the latest MKII series, which exemplifies this progression.
The UDP800MKII: Precision Engineering for Everyday Excellence
The UDP800MKII represents Magnetar's commitment to accessible yet uncompromising playback. Building directly on the original UDP800 platform, this MKII iteration introduces a redesigned 2.0 audio stage that minimizes distortion across high-resolution formats. Precision jitter correction stabilizes signal timing, while enhanced EMI shielding isolates sensitive components from interference, resulting in cleaner analog outputs.
Video performance sees similar scrutiny: an upgraded processing engine sharpens upscaling for non-4K sources, improves color accuracy, and reduces noise in UHD Blu-ray rips. It supports a broad ecosystem, including SACD, DVD-Audio, and networked media via Ethernet, with Roon Ready certification for seamless library integration. For users transitioning from Oppo's UDP-205 era, the UDP800MKII feels like a natural successor—versatile enough for mixed-use setups without sacrificing analytical rigor in soundstaging or image detail.
The UDP900MKII: Flagship Refinement for Reference-Level Demands
For those seeking the pinnacle, the UDP900MKII elevates Magnetar's engineering to flagship territory. Dual ESS Sabre 9038 PRO DACs form the heart of its audio chain, delivering exceptional dynamic range and low noise floor for PCM up to 768kHz and DSD512 via XMOS USB input. TMDS retiming on the HDMI audio port further tames jitter, ensuring bit-perfect transfer to downstream AV receivers or DACs.
Like its sibling, the UDP900MKII benefits from the MKII video refinements, but its balanced XLR outputs and robust power supply make it ideal for critical listening sessions. It decodes every optical format with forensic accuracy—think multilayer SACDs unfolding with holographic imaging or 4K Blu-rays rendering textures in lifelike clarity. This model analytically extends Oppo's legacy by prioritizing modularity: expandable storage via USB and future-proof networking keep it relevant as libraries grow.
Why Magnetar Matters in 2025
Magnetar's MKII series isn't about flashy overhauls; it's a deliberate calibration, responding to real-world feedback on thermal management, format longevity, and integration ease. In an era where physical media faces skepticism, these players affirm its enduring value—offering measurable advantages in bit depth, error correction, and artifact-free reproduction that streaming often can't match.
At All Elite Audio, the UDP800MKII and UDP900MKII stand as testaments to thoughtful innovation. Whether you're curating a vinyl-adjacent disc collection or building a dedicated theater, they deliver the analytical edge Oppo enthusiasts crave. Explore them in our showroom to experience the continuity firsthand.