CD Laser

[tdvit]

hay everybody How long should a laser in a cd player last? does it matter if its a multi loader? and how much generally would a laster cost? thanks a mill

[darth vader]

It's a bit "how long is a piece of string" i'm afraid as it's down to how much you use your CD player and the quality of the CD player itself. As an example i was once told (by an Hexpert) that the average CD player (in a computer) lasts about 5-10 years BUT can be as low as 18 months. Cost - sorry dunno

[Jenny Tools]

I concur with d.v. I take it by adding the Q about being multi-loaded it is a draw loading type and you cannot see the laser lens, it could be worth while removing the cover to locate the lens and give it a gentle clean with a cotton bud dipped in alcohol (not J.D.) dust is a big enemy and if its not working you dont have to much to loose (except your life if you dont unplug it first ;-)

[KARL]

The cost of replacing a laser in a CD player will vary with the make and model of machine - laser plus work can cost �50 or more. One problem is that a replacement may not always be available. If you have a defunct one the best thing to do is to get a quote from a workshop which doesn't charge for the quote (try Yellow Pages in your area). Whether the machine is a multi-changer or single disc type is not likely to make any difference to the cost of replacing the laser.

[nykkieberry]

The laser went on my Sony mini system. It was about four years old (original cost �600) and I had let cement dust get in it; it was also placed against a damp wall in my student house. It cost �80 to fix, four years ago. The laser has just gone again and I am not bothering having it fixed this time; it would seem that on Sony's (or even that particular make) the lasers last 4 years. The laser has just gone in my parent's JVC mini system; it was two years old and cost �200. The repair was quoted at about �100. It all seems to depend on quality and make whether the laser goes rather a standard lifespan. Also keep your cd player clean, dry and don't drop it! Incidentally, an 'expert' advised me to stick with single disc rather than multi disc players as they are more durable and reliable.