Slot, tray, or top load?

I prefer top load (I don’t have one, but would prefer it). The obvious reason: Fewer parts to fail than the other two. Wish I had one.

@rockadanny , +1

I have a top loader. Love it. Love the simplicity. However, it does require extra space, so it may not work on your audio shelf, unless you have a tall opening or sit it on the top. If you have the room, top loaders are great.

The Sony SCD-1 is a top loader using a sliding top door.

I like it because the disc is not moved -- I place it on the spindle by hand and the door closes over it.  No need for any extra mechanism to move the disc into position.  I think it is more reliable and less risky of disc damage.


However, the top loading architecture requires upper clearance, and I have always had to locate the player on a top shelf.