Whatever the cause of the OP's CD3 problem, it is curable. Audio Research isn't like some other companies that stop supporting their products five minutes after they are no longer offered. So, it will be diagnosed and fixed. Electronics fail after a time. As an Electronics/Electrical Engineer, I can tell you that every part has a cycle rate and life expectancy. Same with cars and car parts. Simply maintain the device/car, replace what needs replacing when they need replacing and it is brand new again. Could be the laser pick up, power supply, etc. Could be caused by surge, or simply a part expired. I have a Krell KBX balanced electronic crossover configured specifically for my Martin Logan Monolith III speakers and two weeks ago while working on something else, I noticed that all to familiar electronics burning smell. I also noticed that the external power supply was very very hot. So, naturally, I thought it was the power supply. But on the test bench it powered up fine. It was only when it was plugged into the crossover that it heated up. Oh! problem in the crossover circuitry. I opened the crossover and there it was. One of the electrolytic capacitors simply gave up the ghost and shorted. Never seen one short before. I tested the other circuits and traces and everything else was fine. I replaced the capacitor and it works great now. Electrolytic capacitors will go after so many years. I plan on replacing all of them soon. But RSjM80, may I suggest you grab a great but inexpensive second CD player that you could use in the interim. Such as the very nice Pioneer Elite BD 95 or BDP 09. It is always good to have a spare part in case something needs to be repaired.
In any case. Enjoy
In any case. Enjoy