Xbox 360 DVD All Smoked Up

So, here's my dilemma, the CD drive on my 360 started smoking (at the power cable connection on the PCB).

So, now I'm weighing my options.


Can I replace it (granted, a lot of fucking around with firmware/etc is involved...fuck you MS),

Or, just bin it and move on?

I really don't have any real overwhelming urge to get a One, considering the only games I've played on the XB in the last two years were SR4 and GTAV. Neither of which have been played in 4-5 months (GTA).


I was only really using it as a media extender.

I suppose I can just CL the TV in the room, and call it a day.


But, if I can get a replacement drive and have it work offline (since I've read it's very likely to get ban-hammered) for ME duty, I'm willing to try it, if it's only $20-30.

I've had this box since 2007. I guess it had a good run.


Thoughts?

If you're just using it as a media extender, do you even need a drive?

Unsure. I've read that in some cases, it won't even turn on without it. I guess I've got SFA to lose trying.