Sony’s MZ-RH1, the last MiniDisk recorder released in 2006, is now highly collectable due to its futuristic design.
However, the player’s Achilles’ Heel is its first-generation OLED screen, with failure to arrive as a when, not if, situation.
Developer Sir68k has created a replacement screen to keep the two-decade old gadgets alive and has also produced a guide to assist with the delicate micro-screwdriver work required for the repair.
The developer is also working on new firmware to improve the player beyond its original capabilities with a promise to open source the upgrade when it is ready.
While the replacement screens are not open source, the overall hack is still impressive.
With more Minidisc hacks emerging, such as adding Bluetooth to the famously cramped internals and enabling full data transfer, it appears the format is experiencing something of a revival.
