Car Stereos: Stereo Has Power Yet Wont Operate, fuse box, lcd clock

Question
Hello,
I have an older aftermarket Blaupunkt AM/FM/Cassette stereo installed in my Jetta. It is the type of unit where you use U-shaped clips to remove it from the dash. (The clips I use are metal, if that makes a difference.) Recently I had the clips inserted while trying to remove the unit and soon noticed electrical-smelling wisps of smoke coming from the dash/stereo interface. (I didn't have it completely out yet so was unsure where exactly the smoke originated from.) I immediately ceased what I was doing, and next time I drove that day the unit seemed to be working fine; radio and tape played normally. However, next time I drove (same day), the unit was -- and still is -- completely dead (with tape stuck inside). The LCD clock illuminates briefly if I press the power button, but soon goes out. All else is inoperable. So, I recently used a test light to check for power into the unit and found power present for both the constant feed from the battery and the switched feed from the ignition. Did similar tests for ground and that seemed fine as well. (Did not trace ground wire's actual connection point, however.) Also checked associated fuses: the fuse designated for the radio in the fuse box AND the one at the back of the unit itself appeared visually fine. So, my questions: (1) could I have actually caused this by randomly inserting the U-clips into the appropriate release holes on the unit, and (2) do you have any idea what might be going on here and/or what further actions I can take -- if any -- to get this thing operating again or at least to determine what happened (or is it possible that I fried it beyond repair)? I appreciate any insight you can provide!

Answer
Travis, I think the issue is caused by some loose wiring behind the dash.  I do not know if the clips had anything to do with it, but it is apparent that it started at that point.  You should remove the radio and check the wiring.  Be sure all wires appear normal and are connected securely.  My guess is that there is a bare wire behind there that is shorting out the radio.  It may be too late for the radio, and it may need repairing, but it should be tried first.  Hopefully, once the short is fixed, it will work correctly.  Hope this helps, Scott