Audio Systems: Popping sound in stereo speakers, stereo speakers, stock parts

Question
QUESTION: I have a similiar problem to the lady that wrote at the end of August.  After moving my stereo and putting it back together again I am now getting popping noises from both speakers even with all the inputs disconnected.  I assume this means it's the receiver.  Where do I go from here?

ANSWER: Check to hear if the popping sound is present with only the speakers connected; first with volume off and then again with volume on.

Let me know the results

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QUESTION: Sorry it's taken awhile to f/u this question.  The popping sound is there with the volume off and on.

ANSWER: Is it popping and did you actually switch all of the inputs and does it get louder if you turn up the volume? If you are switched to Radio then you could get static even if nothing is connected to the inputs. If you are getting the popping on all inputs then you may very well have a problem with the receiver. The next question is how old is the receiver. I do not recommend costly servicing to a receiver older than 5 years unless it is audiophile equipment. Even a 5 year old receiver that cost $900 5 years ago, today could found on line for $300.

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QUESTION: The popping is with all inputs and does get louder with volume.  Receiver is from 1992 - think its time to buy a new one.  Thanks.

Answer
Perhaps if the problem you are having started with telling me that the receiver is 15 years old I would have given you a simple answer. If it still looks good use it as a paperweight.

Technology has changed so much especially with consumer electronics. I don't give current electronics more than a 5 year life expectancy. The reason is the original manufacturers won't stock parts for much longer than 5 years and the knowledge of electronic technicians, now, is not what it was 15 or 20 years ago. They are not trained to repair. They are only trained to identify the area where there is a problem and replace the entire assembly. That is costly to you the consumer. It's cheaper to go on line and find something new.