Sony Playstation 1 for a CD player ???

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...

Well, no new news here but thought I'd chime in with my .02 now that i've had it in my system for almost a month. Very positive. In fact I just sold off my Musical Fidelity a308cr cd player (MSRP when new $3400) and don't miss it. I say this honestly: my rig has never been more engaging and enjoyable. I'm getting a feeling of holistic music and not 'what's missing or doesn't sound right?'. At the same time, sound is refined and I don't feel I'm missing much of anything in the details. Plus plenty of air. I'm a little awestruck actually. To me the most noticeable difference is that sound has a fluidity and ease to it I've never heard or experienced before.

The only 'tweaks' I did were upgrade the power cord to a PS Audio Power Punch (better bass, fuller sound, more focused) and put the unit on 3 brass cones sitting directly on my hardwood rack (not in brass pucks). I did this mostly to get airflow underneath and also my racks are solid slabs of Ash and not 100% straight or level. The adjustable cones enable the unit to be leveled and going directly into the wood I've found doesn't lighten up the sound as does on brass pucks.

The unit I received seemed well taken care of (ebay find) and no mech issues whatsoever (knocking on lots of wood). Just in case, I also have a back up that I'm considering modding, but as I listen now that things have had time to settle, I am enjoying the stock version quite a bit.

Associated equipment:
Shindo Aurieges-L preamp
Nuforce Reference 8V2 amps
Usher 6381 speakers
47 Labs OTA Stratos cabling throughout

O.K., after reading this thread, you guys got me. Bought one off ebay today for 38.50 shipped. I told my wife I was going to take 38.50 out of paypal for a CDP, and she said she didnt know if there was enough there. She didnt believe me when I told here again....38.50 not 3850.00. I hope she doesnt think this price will become a trend around here. ;-)