Audio Systems: Popping/crackle when laptop is playing through receiver, output volume, stereo receiver

Question
Hi there,

When I listen to the radio through my 1978? VR5505 JVC AM/FM stereo receiver it sounds great.

However when I play music from my laptop using AV cable through the aux channel on the receiver I get a CRACK or POP every now and then (once every 10mins or slightly more) through the speakers.

Is this going to ruin the receiver or laptop?

Is there something I can do to stop this if so?

Is this something that is going to happen with an old receiver therefore not to worry?
Thank you.

Answer
This could be several different things causing this. It shouldn't "ruin" the receiver, but it probably isn't the best thing for it.

My first suggestion would be to lower the output volume on the laptop, as it may be clipping the input on the receiver (which will cause a popping sound).

Have you tried any other devices through the receiver (cd player, tape deck, etc...) to see if you get the same popping sound? This could be a good troubleshooting test to see if it might be the input causing the noise.

I hope this helps you out.
Cheers!