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The new high-end 4K Blu-ray player is Magnetar’s ULTIMA, a universal media transport announced on September 2, 2026. Magnetar says it is now shipping through authorized dealers and distributors, with a stated MSRP of $12,000. Its published format list spans UHD Blu-ray discs, other optical formats, and digital media, but independent performance testing has not been established.
What is the new high-end 4K Blu-ray player?
It is the Magnetar ULTIMA, which the manufacturer describes as a reference universal media transport built on its MKII platform. Magnetar North America President Rob Jones said the company is “doubling down” on reference-grade physical media playback, and described ULTIMA as an effort to challenge the limitations of a universal transport. Those statements explain the product’s positioning; they are not independent assessments of its performance.
ULTIMA is distinct from Magnetar’s UDP900, another reference-class 4K UHD Blu-ray player. The UDP900 is a separate model, not another name for ULTIMA. Magnetar’s UDP900 product page lists Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support for that model.
When is the ULTIMA available?
Magnetar announced ULTIMA on September 2, 2026, at CEDIA Expo. The company’s launch announcement says the transport is now shipping through its authorized dealer and distributor network. It does not name specific retailers or confirm inventory in any particular region.
#1 Best Overall
- See the unrivalled visual clarity of 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
- Play almost any disc and file format including DVDs
- Stunning picture with 4K upscaling up to 60p
- Easy set-up with included HDMI cable
- Listen to music from multiple formats
How much does it cost?
Magnetar lists a $12,000 MSRP. The announcement does not specify regional pricing or provide a direct consumer checkout option, so buyers should confirm the local price and availability with an authorized dealer.
What formats and features does Magnetar list?
The following are capabilities stated by Magnetar in its launch announcement, not independently verified test results:
Rank #2
- Enjoy Blu-ray Disc movies in Full HD as well as DVD discs
- Upscale your DVDs to near HD quality
- Easy set-up with included HDMI cord
- Boot up in less than a second with super quick start mode
- Keep things simple with the new user-friendly interface
- Disc playback: UHD Blu-ray, Blu-ray, DVD, CD, SACD, and DVD-Audio.
- Digital audio: DSD/DoP via AES/EBU, USB media playback, and high-resolution network playback.
- HDR: Dolby Vision and HDR10+.
That range makes ULTIMA’s stated remit broader than UHD Blu-ray alone. Buyers who need a particular file type, connection, or playback workflow should check the manufacturer’s full specifications with a dealer before purchase; the launch announcement’s format list does not establish compatibility with every file or setup.
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What is known about picture and sound performance?
The launch announcement establishes Magnetar’s claims about formats, platform, price, and shipping status. It does not provide an independent comparative picture-quality or listening test of ULTIMA. “Reference” is the manufacturer’s positioning, not a measured conclusion, so there is not enough evidence here to rank its performance against other players.
Rank #3
- 【Durable & Stylish Design】Crafted with a lightweight aluminum alloy body and minimalist design, this player not only feels solid but also elevates your home theater setup with a touch of modern elegance.
- 【Stunning Visuals】Supports HDR, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision, delivering vibrant colors, lifelike contrast, and incredible detail. Experience true-to-life images even in dark or bright scenes, creating an immersive viewing experience right in your house.
- 【Cinematic Sound】Powered by Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, delivering immersive, object-based surround sound. From explosive action to delicate vocals, experience true theater-like audio that places you at the center of the story.
- 【Wireless Freedom & Private Viewing 】Connect your Bluetooth headphones directly to the player and enjoy clear, stable audio without distance limitations. Move freely around your living room or bedroom while still experiencing uninterrupted sound—perfect for creating a private cinema at home.
- 【Ready to Play 】Comes with an HDMI cable, power adapter, and Bluetooth remote (with battery), so you can start watching right out of the box—no extra purchases required.
For context, TechRadar’s August 28, 2026 buying guide describes the existing Magnetar UDP800 as an audiophile-oriented option and contrasts its features and price with Panasonic’s DP-UB820. That is editorial context about other models, not a controlled comparison and not a test of ULTIMA. See TechRadar’s player buying guide.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What should buyers compare before choosing it?
- Price and seller: Compare the $12,000 stated MSRP with confirmed local pricing and stock from an authorized seller.
- Formats: Match the manufacturer’s model-specific disc and file-format lists to the media you actually use.
- HDR support: Check current manufacturer specifications for the HDR formats required by your display and collection.
- Independent reviews: Look for hands-on testing before treating marketing descriptions as evidence of a performance advantage.
As of October 7, 2026, the available announcement supports the launch and specification claims above, but does not establish an independent ULTIMA review or comparative test.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Region-Free UHD 4K, Blu-ray & DVD Playback: Play Ultra HD 4K discs from any region, Blu-ray discs from Regions zone A, B, and C, and DVDs from all Regions 0, Region 1, Region 2, Region 3, Region 4, Region 5, Region 6, Region 7 and Region 8. Enjoy global compatibility with no restrictions.
Rank #4
- REGION-FREE UHD 4K, BLU-RAY & DVD PLAYBACK: Play Ultra HD 4K discs from any region, Blu-ray discs from Regions zone A, B, and C, and DVDs from all Regions 0, Region 1, Region 2, Region 3, Region 4, Region 5, Region 6, Region 7, and Region 8. Enjoy global compatibility with no restrictions.
- UHD 4K Ultra HD & 4K UPSCALING: Experience stunning picture quality with UHD 4K playback and advanced 4K upscaling for standard Blu-rays and DVDs, ensuring incredible clarity and detail on your 4K TV.
- 4K UHD Ultra HD Player, 4K Playback, HDR, DTS Dolby True HD, Dolby Atmos
- 110-240 volts player supports PAL and NTSC / Plays UHD 4K and Standard Blu-rays, DVD, SACDs, plus has USB input to play all your content. USB Playback, External HDD Playback,
- DYNASTAR HDMI CABLE INCLUDED: This bundle includes a premium Dynastar 6FT HDMI cable for superior connectivity, a USA power supply, region-switching instructions, and a remote control for easy setup and use. Dynastar is a Registered trademark of 220-electronics
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
