Stuck on "LOAD"

[sixwest]

Hello:

My SONY RDR VX-530 has started to "reject" inserted DVD's. It gets stuck in a "LOAD" for about 5 minutes and then ejects the disc. I tried a finalized DVD (a purchased movie) and the results were the same except that in addition to it ejecting, it also displayed a "Disc cannot be played or recorded" message.

The other curious thing is that when I inserted an audio CD, it played without any problems.

Any chance that I'm just missing a firmware upgrade?

Thanks!

[GilbyGood]

Possibly a dead laser.

[Krispy Kritter]

I agree. Most likely a failed/failing or maybe dirty laser.

[sixwest]

Thanks for your replies guys!

I suppose an obvious follow-up would be to get your opinion(s) as to how much $$$$$ it would cost to fix (parts/labor). I got the SONY 530 at a discount retailer last year (<$200.00) so that could affect my decision (fix/replace).

Thanks again.

[Krispy Kritter]

In most cases, if it isn't under warranty, it isn't cost effective to get it fixed. Most shops charge just to look at it, then parts and labor to fix it. If you can get someone to look at it cheap or free, it may be worth it. Otherwise, time for an upgrade.

[handyguy]

Unplug it for a minute, also clean laser (after you unplug it, just take the top off to do it)....those are things you can try but don't expect too much.