Thanks all, for your help!
My player is a DVP-NS575P and doesn't appear in the class action, so that's not an option. BTW that's excellent information, hope as many people as possible get the word on the latest Sony attack on legitimate owners of purchased media.
Based on your answers, I just now ordered a Panasonic DVD-S52S from Circuit city.
It's sad about Sony, since I'd always preferred them as a vendor. However, after the DRM and rootkit debacle and subsequent attempts to minimize the severity and their delays in reparations and policy changes, I no longer trust or recommend the Sony or BMG brand to friends, associates or customers. This mechanical failure on a product a little over a year old with fewer than 30 DVDs played in it is one more reason for me to stay away from the brand.
EDIT - link added for Sony DVD player class action suit ;
Link to the instructions for recovery
here.