In general, old CD players should not damage CDs. However, there are a few things that can happen that could potentially damage a CD, such as:
- A dirty or scratched lens: The lens in a CD player is responsible for reading the data from the disc. If the lens is dirty or scratched, it may not be able to read the disc properly, which could lead to skipping or other playback problems.
- A faulty laser: The laser in a CD player is also responsible for reading the data from the disc. If the laser is faulty, it may not be able to read the disc properly, which could also lead to skipping or other playback problems.
- A physical impact: If a CD is dropped or otherwise subjected to a physical impact, it could be damaged. This could include scratches, cracks, or even dents.
If you are concerned about damaging your CDs, there are a few things you can do:
- Clean the lens: If the lens in your CD player is dirty, you can clean it with a soft cloth. Be sure to use a cloth that is specifically designed for cleaning optical lenses.
- Replace the laser: If the laser in your CD player is faulty, you will need to replace it. This is a job that should only be done by a qualified technician.
- Handle your CDs with care: Avoid dropping or otherwise subjecting your CDs to physical impact.
If you follow these tips, you can help to prevent your CDs from being damaged.
In addition to the above, it is also important to note that the lifespan of a CD player’s laser is typically around 10-15 years. After this time, the laser may start to lose its ability to read discs properly, which could lead to skipping or other playback problems. If you are experiencing these problems with an older CD player, it may be time to replace it with a newer model.
