I got a player today, plays LDs great but the previous owner said it wont play dvds. I am going to try to check it out later but dont know what to look for. I am thinking that it might just not play newer dvds. Where should I go from there?
Chris

My DVL-919E has so far played every DVD I've thrown at it so I doubt it will be a problem with just newer DVDs. I'd recommend trying it out and seeing what happens, it'll probably throw some sort of error message that could get us started.

The electronics are completely different for the DVD verses LD sections, they only merge thru a relay to the final output buffering stage. You either have a loose connection or bad electronics for DVD. The most common failing item is the DVD laser pickup.

It squeeks when you put the disc in like beeep beeep beeep beeep and then doesnt play. The LD plays perfect.

It uses a completed separate laser pickup and electronic board for the DVD playback. Sounds like it is trying to read the DVD but cannot decode what it is reading.

Does it play CD's OK? Spindle motor centering is the other factor other than the laser or electronic board that could be bad.

Ill have to check the CD