One of the very first reviews this site ever published was an evaluation of an Oppo Digital disc spinner. The post and subsequent video rocketed to be the highest ever viewed on the site, it was clear there was massive interest around the brand. Unfortunately, times have shifted and DVD players don’t appear to have the same draw as they used to. Via the company’s Facebook page today, the California-based brand announced that they will “gradually stop manufacturing new products.”
According to the Q and A on the subject, current warranties will remain intact as will service options. Even though Oppo had recently reached out to make a splash in the personal audio space as many other companies looking to expand have, the arena remains a very crowded and competitive market. Network streamers and a whole host of digital options have slowly eroded the need for physical media, even among the hifi elite. With the recent growth of streaming putting additional strain on the demand, its clear that many challenges where rising against the company that was once so sought after and highly regarded for their favorable price/performance ratio – perhaps making some die hard fans wish the announcement had come just a day earlier on April 1st.
More detail available on the Oppo site, farewell message quoted below.
“It has been 14 years since we established OPPO Digital in the United States, and with the support of our customers, technical partners, and movie/music studios, we produced many award-winning Hi-Fi audio products and universal disc players, spanning three generations from DVD, Blu-ray, to 4K UHD.
As our latest 4K UHD players reach the pinnacle of their performance, it is time to say goodbye. We are proud to have made such well-regarded products and to have served the enthusiast community. Without our customers’ suggestions, encouragement, and support, we could not have accomplished these achievements.
Though OPPO Digital will gradually stop manufacturing new products, existing products will continue to be supported, warranties will still be valid, and both in-warranty and out-of-warranty repair services will continue to be available. Firmware will continue to be maintained and updates released from time to time. Customers can rest assured that they will continue to receive the high quality service and support that they have come to expect from OPPO Digital.
We greatly appreciate the opportunity to have developed such exciting products for our customers. It has been an honor.
Best regards,
All of us at OPPO Digital”