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Repair my Sony CDP 608 ESD?

I have a very clean Sony 608 ESD, I bought it brand new in 1986. So I can not complain that it has been a good sounding and flawless performing player all these 29 years. So, lately it is getting touchy, and skips at the slightest footfall, the laser head must be going out? I've been shopping for a replacement, looking at used Esoteric's and Marantz's, used in the $1k to $2.5k range. and am wondering if I may be better served if I just had this unit repaired? In fact, even if I do buy another used CD player, maybe I should have it repaired anyway, just so I can resell it and save it from the scrap heap? Does anyone know of a good shop that I could have the repairs made at a reasonable cost? Any thoughts on a replacement? Thanks in advance.

Russ
alpha_gt
digsmithd
913 posts
 
Jl's got it right...lots to love out there for that coin...got to admit part of my decision was wanting to see what all the rhetoric was about these oppo players...while it does sound good...it has features that I will probably will never even delve into...but saying that...its ready if I decide to.
alpha_gt OP
155 posts
 
To those who posted, just thought I would follow through with an update. I found the replacement laser head for my old Sony and it was $850 just for the part! So that squashes any notion of fixing up the old bird. I am buying a Cary 306 that's 4 years old, hopefully it will last me a good while and it is reported to have that punch and slam I desire, along with just glowing reviews all over. Thanks everyone for the great advice!
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nyp7555
1 posts
 
Greetings.

unlike most people responding to this op, I own a 608 esd since new. It will go head to head against any player I've tried. The technology to properly reproduce 16 bit 44k has been perfected long ago, and this Sony was way ahead of the pack. I've had marantz 6004 and  marantz 8005. I still own the 8005. I also still own my 608. The Marantz is a great cdp.., but no better than the Sony 608. That's a fact. The 608 is truly an unbelievable cdp both in build quality and performance. 
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,602 posts
 
Russ-

I too enjoy those older Sony ES spinners. Parts will not be easy to find.
You can search eBay for another player like yours and strip it for the part(s) needed.  Keep me posted & Happy Listening!
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tonykay
1,301 posts
 
"I am buying a Cary 306 that's 4 years old, hopefully it will last me a good while"

I congratulate you on deciding against repairing your Sony. FWIW, it's a familiar dilemma. If the Cary gives out, take a serious look at the Oppo 105D (or 103D). Right out of the box, it's crazy good (and affordable). 
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