A cloud has appeared on the horizon for DualDisc - the innovative disc technology which marries the DVD format on one side of a disc to CD audio on the other. Onkyo is the latest major consumer electronics manufacturer warning customers it may not be safe to play the hybrid CD/DVD discs.

Onkyo has announced it will launch an investigation into the suitability of the discs.

DualDisc, debuted by Warner Music, have DVD content on one side and CD content on the other. The issue is with the CD side which has failed to license the Compact Disc logo as it does not meet the appropriate specifications.

Although warnings on the discs admit they may not play on a limited number of models, three major players, Sony, Pioneer and Sony Computer Entertainment have all issued warnings prior to Onkyo.

On its website FAQ Onkyo responds to questions about the Dual Disc format with this statement.

"Onkyo has become aware that some pre-recorded hybrid discs -- which are referred to as 'DualDisc' -- have been released in the market to consumers by some music companies and record labels. These hybrid discs appear to be a bonded combination of DVD on one side of the disc and non-DVD (which may incorrectly be referred to as a CD side) on the other side. Onkyo understands that, although these discs may refer to a CD side, the 'non-DVD' side is not compliant with the Compact Disc Digital Audio specification due to its decreased thickness and therefore does not bear the CD logo.

"Onkyo recommends that consumers not use DualDisc titles with any Onkyo products, including CD players, CD Recorders and DVD players. Until Onkyo has an opportunity to test the new commercially available hybrid discs, Onkyo does not know whether Onkyo products can safely handle these new hybrid discs, or whether these discs may damage your Onkyo products.

"Onkyo U.S.A. will update this notice based as soon as our thorough investigation is completed."