I would burden the manufactorer with the dead units problems. I have never had ANY problem with the many units I own. (Yes, it is time to sell some. I just have too many).
Every time I see an original Rega Planet for sale I can only think, "That is still the best ergonomically engineered transport". I use it in complete darkness and never have scratched or misfed a disc. Mine has been playing a disc 24/7 since the day I bought it approximately one year after release.
Even my original Pioneer 6-pack changer still works for my brother who I give it to.
Others, used at the office, work room, theater, and playroom are two Toshiba dvd's (single and multi), a Yamaha 985 (still the best sound from a cheap player), and a Philips 963 sacd/dvd player.
I have NEVER had a problem with any. The secret - leave them on! (Unless they'll be unused for more then a week). Small components (even tubes) do not like to heat up and cool down.