Audio Systems: Low sound through AV receiver,, sony str de697, charity store

Question
QUESTION: Hi,
I picked up a A/V Receiver very cheap and untested, its a Sony STR-DE697. I plugged in some headphones as well as 2 speakers. Sound comes out but only at max volume and even then its fairly low (normal talking lvl). I was wondering if this could be repaired and if so what may be causing the problem.

TIA
Sam

ANSWER: A couple of things to quickly check.  First, turn down teh volume and make sure that the tape monitor switch is disabled.  This is the most common issue with these.  In the monitor mode, you are hearing crosstalk rather than the actual signal.  Second, you may have a case where the output amp section is effectively turned off.  This can occur if a power regulator is defective.  The remainder of the receiver will appear to function correctly.
Verify that the tape monitor is disabled and I'll look up this model tonight to give you more specific things to check.
Dan

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for quick reply, Dan
I checked again and it doesnt look like the tape monitor switch is disabled . I have only tested the audio with the AM tuner. I will attempt to plug in a DVD played and see if i can get louder sound throught it. Ive gone through the troubleshooting section of the manual http://www.retrevo.com/search/v2/jsp/downloadPage.jsp?doc=ac31f9dd586ce0abec5cfb
but no luck there. Its probably a hardware fault, i did buy it for $20.00 at a charity store, they said i can return it if it doesnt work. I just dont know if its worth getting it repaired, the display and function seem to be fine.
Cheers
Sami

Answer
Without taking measurements inside the unit, it is difficult to state teh exact problem.  Personally, I would invest in this as it is a good receiver.  A typical repair would cost you about $100 or so.  Given that repair cost and your initial investment, you still have a good deal.
Dan