Ayre DX-7 CD / DVD - Need laser head replaced - anyone know who I can pay to help me?

fsmithjack

I know. When Charles was alive (R.I.P.) we talked over his undersight for not stocking more of those Pioneer transport mechanism(s). His thought was that the Pioneer supply chain would not diminish. It would be cool of AYRE to design/manufacture their own drive/transport mechanism.
I do love my DX-5 though.

Happy Listening!

I think manufactures should either stock replacement drives for every unit they sell or provide an extra in the box it comes in. The drive is what goes (fails) first in, probably, 99% of these devices. Also, drives are what becomes obsolete (no longer made) on a predictable basis. I tried obtaining a replacement drive for my Oppo 205 the day it arrived. "Sorry sir, those aren't for sale...". Hello people! We're trying to have a civilization here...

I wonder why Ayre doesn’t know this? More interested in selling you a new one than fixing your old one?

Any evidence for that? I’ve seen forum posts from Charles Hansen and Ryan Berry telling customers how to find replacement transports. And their long-standing upgrade program seems like strong evidence that your second question is dubious. Ayre’s customer service is top shelf.

The OP said, after talking to Ayre I presume: "Yes, the platter is a Pioneer 333 laser pick up and it is not made anymore.".
Then the OP said (after looking on EBAY?): " Yes I was surprised. There are a ton of them out there and it’s wasn’t hard."
So there is an effort-breakdown somewhere.

I also have a DX-7 that stopped playing CDs. First I changed out the laser and all seemed to be well, but last time I played it it had odd blanks spots while playing where the sound would stop and then start up. Not like skipping. There was also a burning smell that I pinned down to the platter motor surprisingly. 

So, after reading this tread, I bought a Pioneer DV-333 and went to switch the drives. But the Ayre had an added connector and ground wire, so I went to switch the drive boards. Well, all was well until the lock broke on one of the ribbon connectors. No way to hold the cable in properly. Too small to even consider removing and replacing the connector. So, I guess it goes to the dust bin of obsolete gear.....