It is well known that music can relieve a stressed mind. The
journey from radios to tapes to compact discs (CDs) has been
amazingly swift. Though buying a CD player is an expensive affair,
it remains the most sought after music system at present. However,
consider the following when purchasing the equipment:
CD players run the gamut from inexpensive to deluxe models.
Be sure to listen to each model carefully before you buy. Do
your homework before you go to the showroom:
Check product-comparison charts (which are available in
dailies/magazines)
Review the available features and decide which ones you
want and shorten the list to a handful of features.
Take a few familiar CDs to the consumer electronics store.
Listen to several songs on each of the available CD players.
Pick the model that sounds most enjoyable.
Make your buying decision based on sound quality, price,
features, manufacturer's limited warranty and the service
provided by your sales person.
Consider upgrading from the stock cables that will be included
with your unit.
Remember that:
A CD changer (which may be 3CD or 5CD changers) will generally
not sound as good as a single-disc player and will be less
reliable.
Some manufacturers offer system remote-control units that
control various components of the same brand.
As the laser-head assembly in a CD player will get out
of alignment and a changer mechanism is susceptible to many
problems, a service contract can be a good value. It will
be good if you make sure the store offers more than just an
extended warranty.
If you are interested in home theatre, consider buying
a DVD player instead of a CD player, since DVD players play
CDs and may eventually replace them.
After buying the sound system, if you keep looking at it for
general maintenance, you can make it durable for longer period.
Dust specks and other dirt on a laser lens are a major cause
of CD tracking and noise problems. You can prevent and solve
these troubles with routine maintenance:
Cleaning the Lens and Chassis
Check owner's manual before cleaning the chassis. If the
manufacturer has provided specific instructions, follow them.
Buy a CD lens cleaner and a small brush.
Insert lens cleaner disc in drawer of CD player with brush
facing the lens (usually down).
Clean chassis with an anti-static/soft cloth. Use plastic
cleaning fluid, if the chassis is made of plastic.
While using aerosol product, follow instructions on can.
Otherwise, spray a small amount of fluid onto cloth.
Wipe chassis, making sure no fluid gets inside.
Immediately dry with a dry portion of cloth.
Clean contacts on jacks and cables. Remember: Do not spray
fluids anywhere near CD drawer or ventilation holes.
Do not use ammonia-based products, harsh chemicals or strong
detergents. While cleaning inside the player, inspect the
belts (usually thick black rubber bands) for wear.
Never remove the screws or handle any internal components
as it may void the manufacturer's warranty.
7:42:04 AM 
