@jayctoy It is good to learn your investigations led you to discovering a methodology to have the extended use of your SA 10, having learned as you have has most likely created the situation where the idea of spending $3K-$4K is no longer a concern. I presume the remediation to the SA 10 was very affordable?
I would feel reasonably confident to not receive any backlash, if I referred to a Typical Laser in a CDP - CDT being more akin to a Budget Phono Cartridge. Where the part produced is known for its function as having dependable reliability.
For the individual with a little more insight, maybe Budget Cart' or the CDP -CDT is purchased with acceptance the sacrificial part and are a stepping stone. Where at at some stage of usage there is the knowing there will be a intention to upgrading to a improved Cart' or Laser Model, when more desirable models or compatible models become known. I don't see myself as being alone with this mindset, why spend ones own hard earned money, when one is learning about the end sound that is able to be produced. Spend ones hard earned, when one has confidence the end sound is the one that is the most preferred to the individual who is to do the spending.
Laser's typically found in use and the ones that get the brunt of criticism when used for Audio Purposes, are models with a history of being used in computing, to be used with the CD ROM section on a Computer. Such models have a very very predictable reliability, there have been Multi Millions put into service. It is no surprise that the Large or Smaller producers of a CDP or CDT buy into using parts that are with a recognised reliability.
I take it that when a Laser of this history is discovered used in a audio device that commands a large sum of money to purchase, the use of it when becoming known to a selection of individuals can be the cause of an affront as a follow up.
I have been able to demo' my CDT > DAC in comparison to a variety of CD Sources up to £6K ish in value. Not at any time have I been informed my own set up is wanting, it has been the one wanted to be relistened to on occasions. I do not know how much a Laser assembly is improved over my own models in other devices heard during comparisons. A Local Audio Dealership is handling Jay's Audio, as said on another occasion, I am tempted to have a listen / comparison to my own CDT > DAC, but do not want to be a Tyre Kicker with the Businesses Time.
