I have a dilema and question for experts here.

I have a few new, unopened new consoles (Dreamcast and Neo-Geo CD) that are not even opened, I'm at a point of debating whether to open it and let it run for a little bit or just keep them in the box.

I've heard about new disc-based consoles having the belt dried up if you don't use them (the heat keeps the units' belts moist and smooth), so what's everyone's opinions here? How long can I let my new consoles sit in the box w/o the belts dying on me? Even if the units are dying, can the belts be easily replaced or repaired?