Audio Repair Tips

•Modern audio sound systems are modular, with different components for each function. The receiver tunes in radio signals; the amplifier creates strong current to power the speakers; an equalizer balances the sound between high and low notes; and the speakers generate the audible sound. Audio systems may also have different components for playing recorded music: a turntable for albums, CD player for compact discs, tape player and an Mp3 player for digital sound computer files. Repairing an audio system usually involves first pinpointing the source of the problem and then replacing the malfunctioning part in the individual component.


Cables

•Cables are often a source of problems for audio systems. As each component must be connected to the amplifier and often to other components, cables carry the sound signal from component to component and then to the speaker. Always begin a repair effort by checking the cables. This is done by replacing the cables to and from each component one at a time. If a particular replacement solves the problem, then replacing that individual cable completes the repair.


Speakers

•Speakers physically vibrate at different rates to generate sound. The speakers have lightweight cones of paper or composite material to create the sound. Speaker cones can fail at any time whether the speaker is new or old. If the amount of power to the speaker is too high, it can damage the speaker. Test the speaker by disconnecting the connection wire to each speaker cone to find the damaged part. Replacing a speaker cone is a simple process of finding a replacement with the same watt and Ohm rating, disconnecting a wire from the old speaker and connecting it to the replacement.


Receivers

•An AM/FM receiver must have an antenna to receive the signal. With some audio systems the antenna is part of the power cord plugged into the wall receptacle. Other systems have wires connected to antenna leads for receiving the signal.



If the receiver has only a very weak or no radio signal, check the back of the receiver for antenna leads and see if there is an antenna connected. If there are no antenna leads, then check the power cord. If it is coiled and secured with a twist tie (often done to keep all the wires and cables manageable), stretch out the cord to its full length. This may be enough to improve the signal. If the wall receptacle is directly behind the audio system, it may be necessary to plug in the receiver to a more distant receptacle with an power extension cord. This will stretch out the internal antenna for better reception.


Amplifier

•Amplifiers handle significant electrical loads in order to power other components. If the amplifier fails it could be something as simple as the fuse being damaged. Check the back of the amplifier for a small round plug labeled FUSE. Remove the plug and the fuse. Examine the small wire inside the fuse. If it is burned through, then replacing the fuse with an identical type will repair the amplifier. Be sure, however, to only use the exact same type of fuse. Using a larger, more robust fuse will not improve performance but will allow too much electricity to course through the amplifier and possibly do serious damage. The fuse burning out protects the amplifier from power surges and other electrical disturbances