Pioneer emailed me that they are sorry to hear of the problem I am having with my BDP33FD. However, Pioneer does not have known issues of the bluray firmware update for the BDP33FD that can cause the bluray player to fail if performed correctly. So, at this point, they report, it sounds like there are other issues going on with my unit that require service. Because my unit is out of warranty there is an initial $80.00 evaluation fee. Depending on the issue the tech finds the total cost could just be the $80.00 or it can or may go from there depending on the problem with the unit. Either way this would include the return shipping only.
I am happy they responded. My feeling is it makes no sense to pay $80 plus shipping for Pioneer to look at my unit. While it is possible, the tech can fix the problem for $80, my assumption is the repair cost will be much higher. Since I have already purchased the Sony BDP-S970, I no longer need the Pioneer. If Pioneer can fix the unit for $80, my best guess is I could sell it for maybe $150 if I am lucky. I am going to pass on the Pioneer repair. It is disappointing the Pioneer stopped working but my Sony S790 is a much better Blu-Ray player.
I am happy they responded. My feeling is it makes no sense to pay $80 plus shipping for Pioneer to look at my unit. While it is possible, the tech can fix the problem for $80, my assumption is the repair cost will be much higher. Since I have already purchased the Sony BDP-S970, I no longer need the Pioneer. If Pioneer can fix the unit for $80, my best guess is I could sell it for maybe $150 if I am lucky. I am going to pass on the Pioneer repair. It is disappointing the Pioneer stopped working but my Sony S790 is a much better Blu-Ray player.