philips cdr 778 on the fritz

[eddie]

I bought this Philips cd player/recorder for the second time about 4 years ago. About 6 months ago, deck 2 says "insert disc" after I any and every put disc in and close drawer but has played OK. I tried playing a certain disc and it just spins and "no disc" message pops up and it does not play. However this same disc plays on every other machine including the first deck of the Philips player.
I payed about $500 for this player and I believed it was high-end. I am thinking about buying a Harmon Kardon Cd player. Would anyone reccomend?
It seems that the drawers, spindles, and electronic mechanisms are garbage and break easily. Nothing is wrong with the beam or other functions. I exclude all carasoul models for this reason. Any feedback is welcome. Thanx!