So about 3 weeks ago I picked up a complete Genesis CDX system at the flea market, the system did not play disks at all.
I ordered a replacement lens on Ebay, the listing actually says "
NEW SEGA CDX OPTICAL LASER LENS".
Here are what the lens I received looked like, left was the new lens and right was the non working one I need to replace: http://i.imgur.com/9eJ0Qn0.jpg
I install the lens and nothing happens, it lights up but the disc will not spin. This is where my frustration begins.
The Goldstar 3DO uses the same lens as the CDX, I swap the lens from the 3DO and try it in the CDX, it works! So for sure I know its something with the lens. I start adjusting the pots and still nothing, I even adjust the pot on the lens....nothing. I am searching online for help, looking for posts, anything to help me and hours go by. I finally send the lens back and after another week get a return, guess what? Nothing again...... repeat head bashing into desk.
NOTE: Now if you have never opened a CDX it's a little ball of joy to open, there is copper shielding that had a resistor connected to it, if at any point it somehow gets disconnected and you plug the system in to test you will blow the pico fuse....SO BE CAREFUL.
If it gets disconnected just re-solder it or just connect a longer wire to both end and re solder http://i.imgur.com/p1aPM71.jpg
After several e-mails and being told these lens work for everyone else I found this post: http://forum.digitpress.com/forum/showthread.php?163806-Sega-CDX-laser-calibration-without-opening-the-console
Surprise surprise, the same exact issue and he bought the lens from the same guy I did.... 2 years ago /sigh
I said f it and returned the 2nd lens after being told they have never had an issue with any of them...ever.
Finally the new lens comes in, this is what the correct lens replacement looks like.
Quick test with a music CD: http://i.imgur.com/kc9o2po.jpg
It's ALIVE: http://i.imgur.com/HWRO4sM.jpg
tl;dr: The correct Sega CDX lens is a SF-C93AQ, purchasable from this dude: http://www.ebay.com/itm/120845728240?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1497.l2649
Trust me it will save you a ton of frustration.
