Maybe it's just me, I always had issues with Ubuntu and Debian based distros that I didn't have with Arch based distros. Why do people say Arch is harder? That was never my experience. I've been using endeavorOS and it's been pretty great.
Maybe that's why the dialer app is still there as well.
If you have the technical knowledge to replace the laser it might be worth it. It's a beautiful machine. I don't think it's that difficult. I've seen videos of people doing it before. Just make sure to do some research before attempting. I have a vintage Sony player that has the same problem as yours I've been meaning to fix as well. I'll let you know how that goes if I ever get around to it. My main player right now is a Denon DVD-1930CI DVD/SACD player. It's from 2008 and has held up so far.
I don't even use Windows anymore and I cringe at the thought of being forced to use the Settings app over Control Panel.
Sorry to tell you but that sounds like a dying laser. If you're determined to hold on to it you might be able to find an electronics repair shop that might fix it. It would probably involve swapping in a working laser. Honestly it would be cheaper to replace the unit. Those older players aren't very reliable after all these years. They are beautiful though.
Store your important data on them.
You get to create your own dialog.
How often does it skip? I had a Technics CD changer skip occasionally for no apparent reason. I think the laser was just fucked. I tried cleaning it and it didn't make a difference. Unfortunately the lasers won't last forever even if you take good care of them.