Am I nuts?

yes, if here, nuts!

what's the question?

what model?

I researched, the lasers do get old and weak, or out of alignment. some lasers can be changed by experts. some entire mechanisms (drawer and laser) can be changed by DIY or expert.

I just bought a lightly used Sony xa5400ES made in 2008. I could not be happier. It is a terrific sounding player. IT has available replacement mechanisms and/or lasers, one of the reasons I selected it. Soooo glad I did.

Me too. I buy everything repairable and if it’s not repairable I don’t buy at all.

If 100 years old player repairable and brand new not, than I'll buy 100 years old repairable player.

If you are paying $10 for the player, you’re not nuts. If you are paying $1000, you are nuts.

BTW, try to find a Laser replacement on ebay.

I wouldn't. If you really need a CDP and can't wait, go for something new(er) and easily repairable (or disposable) and slowly save your money for a better one down the road.

If I had a crystal ball and could foresee the demise of CD players in the next few years, then I'd say go and buy a new one on credit. 

All the best,
Nonoise

+1, dweller

All about evaluating risk/reward.