I've been out of active hi-fi service for several years and have not kept up with the latest advances in technology. I have a California Audio Labs Icon CD player (ca. 1990) that's sick - the drawer won't open so there's a problem with the transport system. Is it worth fixing (est. $150 - $200), or should I just buy a new player. If I should replace it, any suggestions what I should consider? Thanks!
Wayne Parham Messages: 18790 Registered: January 2001
Illuminati (33rd Degree)
I think it's probably six one way and half dozen the other. If you liked it, it's worth it. If it wasn't real special to you, then maybe not.
The CAL Icon CD player is an old unit from a company that is no longer in business. So your technician may have a hard time doing a proper repair, and may settle for a less than optimal fix. Then again, he may be able to fix it perfectly and you might get years more enjoyment from it. Hard to say.
One thing is certain. You can replace it with a new CD player for less than $150.00, but you can't get a good one for that price.
colinhester Messages: 1349 Registered: May 2009 Location: NE Arkansas
Illuminati (3rd Degree)
CD players are the one component I will not fix.
CAL was a very well respected company in its day; however, technology has come a long way. There are a lot of good players in the sub $500 price point, and I think you would have to go out of your way to choose a bad one....C
I'd take the cover off and look to see if the drawer is belt driven. I've fixed several old Denons by using a 1/16" O-Ring because I didn't have the correct belt and they're still opening and closing.
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