Insert a MiniDisc into your recorder and press the play button. If the disc does not begin to play, this could be caused by a damaged or dirty laser unit inside the recorder. Several companies manufacture discs that are designed to clean the laser. After cleaning the laser, try playing your disc again. If the recorder is still unable to play the disc, the laser unit may need to be replaced. Contact a technician familiar with MiniDisc technology to discuss repair options.
Power on your MiniDisc device. If your recorder fails to turn on, this could be a sign of power supply failure. Many models of recorders are very sensitive to voltage levels. If you are using a voltage converter for your device, this may cause the power supply to shut down, as small changes in voltage levels can harm the power supply. Many audio equipment providers are available on the Web that can provide you with advice on where to purchase a new power supply.
Press the record button to test if your MiniDisc player is properly recording audio. If you do not hear the audio you have just recorded when playing back the disc, this could indicate a damaged recording head. Within the recording head, a small electromagnet is attached to a thin metal sheet using a single conducting mechanism. If your MiniDisc recorder is dropped or jarred, the conducting unit can easily detach from the electromagnet or metal sheet. Without this connection, the MiniDisc player will no longer record incoming audio signals. You may be required to purchase a new recording head to repair this problem.
Send your MiniDisc to a repair technician if you are only able to hear audio from one side of your headphones when using the recorder. It is very easy to inadvertently damage the input jacks on the recorder. Attempting to replace the input jack without the assistance of a repair technician may lead to further damage.