Did I get Switcherood?

[poneal]

As stated previously, if not resolved, this can bug you for a lifetime. I'm glad that you took the effort to get a second opinion and resolve the issue. As for me, I will definitely look at the inside of mine before I take it in to a repair shop.

[stratman672001]

I've been hearing alot of nightmare stories lately involving Sony ES gear and their service centers. The ES quality (both build and service) seems to have slipped enough within the past 5 years that many are vowing never to buy from them again. Your story is just the latest. I almost got an ES SACD player. Got the cheaper one instead. If it dies I'm not out that much and can just chuck it. Once the warranty runs out on yours and something goes wrong, I'd seriously give serious thought to either Denon or Marantz for a replacement. Their quality is a touch better.