Frank, no it isn't normal. Nearly all Blu-ray players have lasers which operate at wavelengths of 780nm(CDs),650nm(DVD/DVD-A/SACD)and 405nm(Blu-ray). These are the optimal wavelengths for reading those types of discs(contrary to the nonsense we sometimes read about "dedicated" players), and when in good working condition your Blu-ray player should read CDs(unless they're badly damaged)flawlessly.
The problem with your player wouldn't likely be a dirty lens, since the lens for Blu-ray would almost certainly be equally dirty. The laser diode for CD or its wiring may be failing, but whatever the problem would be, repair wouldn't likely be economically practical.
Thanks for the insight. I'm certainly not looking eager to get a dedicated CD player, since I had just blew a bundle replacing my dead receiver with a new pre/pro. However, getting a new BDP is not out of the question, given how cheap they are.
