Sony Playstation 1 for a CD player ???

i have used a playstation 1 with tube amp and preamp. there was no problem. there was no attenuation in the treble.

it may be an impedance mismatch. i'm running it through a tubed pre, sounds great.

The output stage can be modified with a choice of caps and resistors that would work with whatever downstream equipment you have in the signal path. I have modded a few Playstations with different caps in the output signal path, and obtained different results. Using the widely acclaimed Black Gate N or Sanyo OS-CON SC electrolytic caps seems to match up very well with tube amps where top end roll off could be a problem. I recently sold a modded unit with the Elna Silmic II caps in the output stage, as the buyer's tastes fit very well with the smooth treble response of the Elna Silmic II caps. He's using that unit with an SET amp and he is quite satisfied with that. It just comes down to personal preferences.

Have you also tried changing interconnect cables? That can largely influence the sound quality as well.

I have a 1001 model. After making connections and pressing reset, I still cannot get the player to spin or Q-up. Are memory cards required to be installed for it to play?

No memory card req for playback. Assuming you've got the thing plugged in sounds like something is broke. You could try http://www.richspsxparts.com/ for parts/advice or just get another one.

Rhing may be able to shed some light...