Abstract: A lid is hinged to the base of a disc record player for movement between a closed position and an open position. A lid latch member is mounted in the base for (1) securely holding the lid in the closed position, and (2) releasing the lid in response to manipulation of a lid release lever. A cam is mounted in the base for movement between (one) a first condition decoupling, and (two) a second condition intercoupling, the release lever and the latch member. A linkage is provided between the cam and a signal pickup housing of the player for moving the cam (a) into the first condition when the housing is in a playback mode whereat manipulation of the release lever is ineffective to release the lid, and (b) into the second condition when the housing is in a standby mode whereat the latch member responsive to manipulation of the lever releases the lid, if the lid were closed.