Ayre DX-7 CD / DVD - Need laser head replaced - anyone know who I can pay to help me?


I have a very nice Ayre DX-7 transport that needs the laser pick up replaced. I need the part, I am told it’s an older Pioneer laser head. I need help finding the part and someone that can help me do work. Can anyone help or recommend someone? Thanks 
128x128Ag insider logo xs@2xfsmithjack
Yes, the platter is a Pioneer 333 laser pick up and it is not made anymore. I was hoping someone may know someone that regularly replaces these or is more familiar with these? I think I can find a replacement part elsewhere and have Ayre install it but thought if there is someone that knows a tech that specializes in older laser changes might be easier and a better option. Thanks 
Good luck with that one, you will have to start searching on the web and maybe, just maybe, you will find a shop with one in stock.   For the most part, when a CD player goes bad, it is time to buy a new one as servicing one is pretty much impossible due to obsolescence.  

Which reminds me of a movie I saw recently where the CIA used a VHS repair shop as a cover for operations.   Odds of someone coming in that place is pretty small these days.


fsmithjack OP


Much easier to replace the whole transport/laser than just the laser.
4 screws, a push on power plug and push on ribbon connector.
I’m fairly sure it uses the old DSL-710A laser/mech complete, which are cheap to buy new still under $100, take the top off yours and see if it’s like this
https://ibb.co/hDCkRw9
If you can use a screwdriver your almost there, should take 30-45mins, maybe 1hr if your slow.

Cheers George
When I purchased my Oppo 205, My first action was contacting the Oppo service department to purchase one-or-more replacement LASER mechanisms. "sorry sir, not for sale". Creeps...
Thanks George - yes that would be great. Can you help me figure out what to get? So there is a guy on eBay that has this:

NEW OPTICAL LASER LENS PICKUP for PIONEER DV-333 / DV-3300 $43.65

Is this what you mean? 
https://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-OPTICAL-LASER-LENS-PICKUP-for-PIONEER-DV-333-DV-3300/361837354266



George - your info is super helpful. The Ayre DX-7 is a DVD / CD Transport. 
I found that one you said I should get. Is this is right here? 
https://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-ORIGINAL-DVS-DSL-710A-South-Korea-DVD-driver-DSL-710A-DSL710A-DVS-KOREA...

Should I call Ayre to confirm or if you think this is it I will buy it. Such a good idea to replace the whole thing. I’m psyched! 


This one is more money but do you think it is better or just charging more for same thing? Maybe this one is OEM and other one isn’t? Again, thanks so much! 

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Full-DSL-710A-Transport-AYRE-HARMAN-MERIDIAN-PRIMARE/253582442633


Should I call Ayre to confirm or if you think this is it I will buy it. Such a good idea to replace the whole thing. I’m psyched!
No, pop the top on it and have a look to see if it’s the same.
If your not sure take pic of it and post it here using Image Hosting https://imgbb.com/

If it is the same, even if you have VERY BASIC mechanical/electrical ability, just do it yourself, it’s easy.
Just don’t have a gorilla fist when doing up the screws again remember it’s just plastic.
Do not buy just the laser, far harder to fit.

Cheers George
fsmithjack

I am looking forward in reading more about this project.
I own an AYRE DX-5 universal spinner that is superb in sound quality.

Happy Listening!
A replacement version was bought on eBay - not too hard to hard to install - wasn’t too expensive. 

Great, always good to get back those that helped, even if bad news.

Cheers George
Yes I was surprised. There are a ton of them out there and it’s wasn’t hard. One if the benefits of their use a standard pioneer transport mechanism. 
 I wonder why Ayre doesn't know this? More interested in selling you a new one than fixing your old one? 
fsmithjack

I know. When Charles was alive (R.I.P.) we talked over his undersight for not stocking more of those Pioneer transport mechanism(s). His thought was that the Pioneer supply chain would not diminish. It would be cool of AYRE to design/manufacture their own drive/transport mechanism.
I do love my DX-5 though.

Happy Listening!
I think manufactures should either stock replacement drives for every unit they sell or provide an extra in the box it comes in. The drive is what goes (fails) first in, probably, 99% of these devices. Also, drives are what becomes obsolete (no longer made) on a predictable basis. I tried obtaining a replacement drive for my Oppo 205 the day it arrived. "Sorry sir, those aren't for sale...". Hello people! We're trying to have a civilization here...
I wonder why Ayre doesn’t know this? More interested in selling you a new one than fixing your old one?
Any evidence for that? I’ve seen forum posts from Charles Hansen and Ryan Berry telling customers how to find replacement transports. And their long-standing upgrade program seems like strong evidence that your second question is dubious. Ayre’s customer service is top shelf.
The OP said, after talking to Ayre I presume: "Yes, the platter is a Pioneer 333 laser pick up and it is not made anymore.".
Then the OP said (after looking on EBAY?): " Yes I was surprised. There are a ton of them out there and it’s wasn’t hard."
So there is an effort-breakdown somewhere.

I also have a DX-7 that stopped playing CDs. First I changed out the laser and all seemed to be well, but last time I played it it had odd blanks spots while playing where the sound would stop and then start up. Not like skipping. There was also a burning smell that I pinned down to the platter motor surprisingly. 

So, after reading this tread, I bought a Pioneer DV-333 and went to switch the drives. But the Ayre had an added connector and ground wire, so I went to switch the drive boards. Well, all was well until the lock broke on one of the ribbon connectors. No way to hold the cable in properly. Too small to even consider removing and replacing the connector. So, I guess it goes to the dust bin of obsolete gear.....

heyjay

 

Thank You for confirming the Pioneer DV-333 as a replacement drive for DX-7.

 

Happy Listening!

fsmithjack

 

An update? Did you find another Player? Another AYRE?

 

Happy Listening!