Highend Players and Skipping CDs


Are Highend CD players more likely to skip on CDs that cheeper players will play fine or is it the other way around? I have noticed that alot of my mildly scrached CDs have been skipping alot more now with a higher end player. The player is from 2000, but in good condition. I had it professionally cleaned. It does alot better, but it does skip on CDs my cheep mini system will play.
rnilson

Showing 2 responses by seandtaylor99

It could be the laser is on its way out. If it gradually gets worse and worse you're probably looking at a new transport.

The good news is that many highend players use very inexpensive transports, so replacing it really should not run more than $100, perhaps $200 if it's really difficult to open up.
That can be one cause. Another is if the mechanism that positions the laser and reader gets sticky (aging grease) and does not move the assembly smoothly. Either way I think it's a good time to contact the manufacturer to enquire about a checkup and possible transport replacement.

For reference the transport in a Marantz CD17KI (VAM1201) costs about $25 from an electronics supply, and includes the motor, the laser, the sled that positions the laser ... the whole shebang as a single replacement item.