QuestionNo problems with the model and this thing gets a real workout (8 year old daughter who LOVES movies). No problems until this afternoon. Now, whenever I play a disc, there is a narrow bar about 1/4 of the way down from the top that is "coarse, pixelated static". Above that is a line across the screen that looks like the image is displaced a few pixels.
This happens with more than one DVD and the same DVDs play fine in my panasonic DVD/HDD recorder.
Both are connected to (different) component video, progressive scan connections into my Toshiba widescreen.
Like any computer user, I turned it (the Denon) off and then back on again (reboot, see if the problems still there) and it's still there.
Any thoughts?
AnswerDear Stephen,
First, in addition to turning the unit off, unplug is completely from the wall receptacle. Wait a couple of minutes, and plug it back in. Sometimes, that's the only "reboot" that works with appliances, especially electronics, since they're designed to remember your settings after you simply power them down.
Next, get a laser lens cleaner at Best Buy, Circuit City, etc. and use it according to instructions. When a unit gets such heavy use--your 8-year-old does everything herself, right?--it's not uncommon for the transport tray to accumulate dust and detritus that get on to the lens.
If none of this works, your last self-help option is to disconnect and unplug (very important) the unit and take a peek under the hood: remove the shell and inspect the laser mechanism. If there isn't anything obvious, like peanut butter in the mechanism, it just may very well be that it's worn out and time to buy a new one.
As a rule I don't think DVD players are worth repairing. You can get one very cheaply ($50 or so) and simply replace it when it breaks. The cost of a repair would be at least that much. The electronics are the same, and your daughter will figure out how to work it in no time.
Good luck. And thanks for choosing allexperts.com!
Kindest regards,
Kevin
