[JoshK]

My XA777ES's transport is getting a bit noisey on SACD's and there are now a couple of redbook discs it has a hard time reading.  I think the laser might be a little off and/or a bit dirty inside.  

I'd really like to have the transport mechanism cleaned up and realigned if necessary and was wondering where should I get that done?

[bubba966]

What does the transport noise sound like?

It could very well be the spindle bearing is worn and needs replacing. That would also account for it having a problem reading some discs. I've replaced spindle bearings in optical transports before and it took care of the transport noise & disc mistracking.

You probably should see if you have any Sony repair centers around you. And be prepared to pay big $ for any parts it may need as Sony is fond of charging obscene amounts of $ for spare parts as they'd rather you just bought new gear rather than repair anything.

I've only had Sony stuff serviced by Magnolia Hi-Fi. But I doubt you bought your 777 from them, and they're not exactly close to you either...

[JoshK]

Thanks for the tip...I'll look into it.  If it is something like that, I'll do it myself.  I just don't think I can realign the laser as that supposedly takes some really precision calibration tools.

That makes a lot of sense and sounds very likely.  My transport is basically sounding like, come to think of it, the spindle is grinding as it spins while playing SACDs.  SACDs sound like they are spinning tons faster and you can hear it from the listening position.