The Sony MZ-S1 is a fun, rugged NetMD-capable (but why?) MiniDisc recorder that's actually splash-proof! It has multiple seals for all ports and a unique latching mechanism that keeps everything secure against elemental challenges.
This model was working, but perhaps it was damaged in shipping because when I received it, it would "error" during playback (literally said "error" on the display with no audio).
Since it was working electrically and was recently working properly, I figured it would be best to start with clean and lube to see if it would work properly after that.
Getting into it was interesting since it's got an outer protective layer we need to get into before reaching the actual mechanism.
Please watch the video for more details, but here are the steps:
- Remove 3 case screws (bottom, 2 on the "spine")
- Remove 2 hinge screws (unscrew, then pull out since there's a long non-threaded portion)
- Open the flap and unscrew 2 more near the eject button
- While holding the eject lever downwards, pull the top lid and mechanism out (don't pull it all the way out, it's still connected by some wiring to the joystick)
- Unscrew 2 screws at the top of the lid
- Unlatch the flex cable from the lid to the main board
- Clean and lube the visible mechanism
- Before re-assembly, check the torsion spring and position of the hold switch
