Repair or replace?

[Tarpon]

My Cambridge Audio 500SE went out, tracking problem. Should I repair or replace?

[cpu8088]

if you doubt the sound quality you should replace.

if you still enjoy the sound have it repaired

[Tarpon]

I guess my question is what is the life of a CDP? It is going to cost $75 just to have a service shop open it up and tell me what is wrong. Since it is a tracking issue it could be the whole laser assembly. I'm risking a $200-300 repair on a $450 CDP.

[whoaru99]

Perhaps it just needs cleaning?

You're not really risking the $200-$300 since you may choose not to fix it.

[Douglas_B]

I suggest you find out how much it will cost at a repair shop to inspect it, assuming it's not a cleaning issue as suggested. I recently had a DVDP repaired, and the repair shop charged $30 non-refundable to diagnose. I ended up paying $100 total for a new laser assembly (which I figured the problem was). For me, this was a no-brainer, because it was a modded player. You should do some window shopping to see what a comparable new player would cost you (or a better one, if you're so inclined).

Everything does have a shelf life. Moving parts are more of an issue. So factor in the age of the unit as you make the $ comparison between repair vs replace (assuming you choose to spend for the diagnosis). Only you can assess the relative merits of each decision. Of course, also factor in the fun and anticipation of looking for an upgrade ;) .

Good luck.

Doug

[Tarpon]

Thanks. Good points.

Any suggestions of what to listen to under $500. I think I want to hear what is availible before making a decision.

[diamonds]

[QUOTE=Tarpon]I guess my question is what is the life of a CDP? It is going to cost $75 just to have a service shop open it up and tell me what is wrong. Since it is a tracking issue it could be the whole laser assembly. I'm risking a $200-300 repair on a $450 CDP.[/QUOTE]

Replace...it's just not worth it...