Well a week or two later and I am no further forward. The player will not power up.
Looking at the attached circuit diagram for the power supply, I have tested the input voltage, bridge rectifying diodes, several capacitors and downstream diodes and resistors. (All out of circuit and tested ok).
What I can't figure out and would really appreciate some advice on, is what voltage I should be looking for at certain points along the circuit.
The only notated voltage is what looks like -12v after PD10.
I know this is a cheap DVD player that I can replace for $30 but persevering with this is the experience that I need.