[DjAmTraX]

I have both units. The SCD777es started to have issues playing SACD layer of hybrid discs. It plays the CD layer fine and also plays non-hybrid SACDs fine in SACD mode. Just issues with SACD layer on hybrid discs. I checked the firmware and it's 2.0. I understand the latest is v2.53 so I just ordered the IC for the latest firmware. Anyone here has experience on my issues or can comment if the IC will fix this problem?

 

[DjAmTraX]

 
update:
 
did the firmware update.  It was not hard at all, but it did not fix my issue so I installed the IC in my SCD-1 instead because that unit player perfectly.  Oh well, I'm not gonna mess with the SCD777es because it plays not hybrid discs just fine.  No need to spend more money on it.  Thanks for everyone's help on this.

 

[Lavcat]

I have an SCD-1 (also have a CDP-101).  I've not tried to update the SCD-1 in any way however.  Last I tested I had no trouble with hybrid discs though.  Only problem I ever had was a key stuck on the remote.
 
These days I've pretty much given up on SACD and happily listen to music on my headphones sourced from the computer.

 

[double07]

I have SCD777 ES.  I had problem with that few years back.  I sent it to one of the peson who specializes in the Sony SACD.  I don't remember who? it has been a while.  I thought, I need new disc assembly, it turns out, it just need to be cleaned up really good.  And it is working great since (knocked on the wood).  

 

[purk]

I think you may need a new laser pickup.  My SACDmods SCD-C555ES was having the same problem many years ago and by replacing the new pickup ($300 or so including labor + part), the problem went away.  

 

[jamato8]

Both units can still be rebuilt. Too bad Sony doesn't still make the statement pieces but that is how they do it. As mentioned above, sometimes the cleaning of the optical section of the pickup but then I also read of the assembly needing to be replaced. 

 

[purk]

The SCD1 & 777ES are statement source especially in SACD playback.  The redbook is very good but not great.  Some how the SCD-1 has a little more clarity when compared side-by-side with the SCD-777ES though.  Of course, my current 777ES has nothing in common with the stock unit.

 

[jamato8]

Yes there is a lot that can be done with the units to upgrade the sound. They are monsters and beautiful. 

 

[rgs9200m]

The 5400ES sounds much better and more liquid and balanced to me (still around for about a $grand). I'm a former scd777 owner (and even had it modded, and still the 5400 is better).
If you have the $$, I would move on to the 5400.

 

[purk]

Quote:

The 5400ES sounds much better and more liquid and balanced to me (still around for about a $grand). I'm a former scd777 owner (and even had it modded, and still the 5400 is better).
If you have the $$, I would move on to the 5400.

I agree.  You basically just re-affirm what I have been hearing with the 5400ES.  I had the SCD777ES with $1500 of Richard Kern modded package and think that the 5400ES is better as well.  I wish I have the money to try the 5400ES modded by Modwright.
 

 

[rgs9200m]

I had the 777  Kern mods also about 10 years ago.

 

[jamato8]

The SCD1 sure is a beauty though. 

 

[DjAmTraX]

I am worried to use a standard CD lens cleaner on it.  Besides, it will not clean the SACD lens because it is a twin lens machine.  
 
Senting the unit for repair is so.... risky.  I am not ready to see marks or dents on it yet.

 

[purk]

Quote:

I am worried to use a standard CD lens cleaner on it.  Besides, it will not clean the SACD lens because it is a twin lens machine.  
 
Senting the unit for repair is so.... risky.  I am not ready to see marks or dents on it yet.

Give it a try man.  But seriously, I think the problem is with your aging laser.
 
Well, your best bet is to send it to Sony before they no longer service this machine.  However, make sure that you do not include the original packaging as it is their policies to trash all the in-coming shipping box and send out with another box.  Not surprising given that they likely take in several hundred repairs on a daily basis.

 

[DjAmTraX]

I'm afraid that would scratch it.