I can't answer your questions but the terrible service from Sony is disgusting. I have had similar problems from Sony Tech Support in the distant past so I try to avoid their stuff nowadays. Too bad, because they do make some good stuff.
Sony HAP-Z!ES won't play after disk swap
I swapped out the HDD in my Sony player, after the swap it would play files only very very slowly -- about 1/10th normal speed. I reinstalled the original disk, and the slow playing problem remains. It seems that I have somehow killed it. I have downloaded the service manual and learned how to put it into diagnostic mode. If there is anyone in A'gon land that has experienced this problem or has troubleshooting expertise, I would love to hear from you. Failing that, does anyone know of repair service for this player? The unit is not under warranty, and the Sony trouble desk was absolutely no help -- terrible attitude about swapping disks there! Previous posts here have implied that this disk swap is trivial, but sadly not the case for me.