Expert: Cleggsan - 7/26/2009

Question
Head has a cd in it. Won't play, won't release.  Cannot eject that magazine holding that cd.  Won't play any other cd's.  
This is an Optimus 100 cd automatic changer.

Answer
Try a hard reset first.  Do this by unplugging the power cord for 1/2 hour. Then power it up again. That will sometimes clear the trouble.

The trouble you are facing, if the reset does not help, can be from internal electronic controls that are confused or corrupted OR it can be from mechanical failures of the mechanism, stuck guides, bent actuators and so on.  You can try gently to remove, nudge or get the magazine to move, but do not force it.  In a severe case you may have to remove the covers to allow visual and mechanical inspection of the mechanisms.

If you cannot clear the trouble on your own you will need service from a trained tech.  Do not take it back to Radio Shack as they generally do not have service capability; however, they may be able to recommend a local service agency that has skill with your model.  It should not be a difficult or expensive assignment for a tech - they do these kinds of repairs frequently.

Also, you can google for more information such as instruction books and service manuals that may help you investigate the problem on your own.  But you will need the model number to google or bing for it.  There are many forums and comment pages on items such as this on a model by model basis.

Good Luck,
C