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BAT VK-D5 CD Player Needed New Transport Assembly

I just got my 3 year old BAT VK-D5 CD Player back from the BAT Factory. The unit would not play CD's and they had to replace the transport assembly ($400) and also changed the tubes ($120). I was using my Meridian 508.20 CD player as a substitute player but the BAT VK-D5 is a much better sounding unit. Is this technical repair something that I need to worry about or just a chance occurance?
hgeifman

Showing 2 responses by rlb61

rlb61
792 posts
 
You've got a problem ... the BAT uses the Phillips 12.4 transport which is one of the most troublesome, unreliable transports on the planet. I had a Cary 303/100 AND a 303/200 which both had Phillips 12.4 transport problems. I finally junked 'em. When looking for a new CD player I purposely chose one that did not use the Phillips transport (I bought a MF Nu-Vista 3D CD which uses a Sony CDM14 transport). I looked at the VK-D5SE and thought it was pretty good, but passed 'cuz of the transport.
rlb61
792 posts
 
Upscale is right about mechanical things breaking down ... they all do at some point. HOWEVER, the Phillips 12.4 transport DOES have a reputation of being unreliable and for having problems early on in the ownership cycle. It's THAT simple. I believe the only Phillips transport worth its salt is the PRO2 top loader. A good warranty is wonderful and essential, but having to pack, schlep and send back equipment (plus shipping) to the manufacturer in the early stages of ownership is disappointing and frustrating.

I would still stay away from the 12.4 transport.
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