Think you need a CDM12 laser instead of the VAM1255. Did you replace just the laser or the whole mech? Don't forget to lubricate well and check for faulty caps

Thank-you so much for your reply.

I did have a very close look for seepage from electrolytic caps but saw nothing suspicious.

Do you have circuit references for the usual culprits?

The previous laser was a 1255 so that's what I went for.

If you think a CDM12 could work, I would really appreciate a link. I've got a couple new CDM12's coming for other Philips players and thought their flex-cable had a reversed pin-out going by appearances.

Really appreciate your comments on this one.

TR

Think there are smd caps on the back of the mech, seepage is not an issue, but they may be faulty anyway (tops bulging)

And if there was a 1255 in there then go for it. I didn't know that the Century came with VAM1255, thought the earlier ones had the curved lasers, the latter ones came with the CDM12. I did order some very cheap CDM12 lasers from Ebay Hongkong (about 10 bucks each) that worked fine for the Century and BS Ouverture/2300. Actually I'm listening to a CD-R (done with itunes) at the moment that is playing on BS2300 with one of the HK lasers, works like a charm.