Audio Systems: sony audio receiver, warranty repair center, sony surround sound receiver

Question
A friend of mine has a sony surround sound receiver that disconnects...and the sound muffles out, or drops to only the side speakers, not all the surround sound. It seemed to work fine on the radio, but the TV and DVD it wouldn't work. You have to turn it up really loud, almost all the way, where as she didn't have to do that before. Any suggestions before I have someone look at it.  I am relatively familiar with home audio electronics, so I was hoping I could look at it first.


Answer
Can't give you any specific advice - not knowing the model number.  However, let me give you a couple of general thoughts.

ONE:  Try just removing the bad channel speakers and switching them with other speakers that are working good. This will tell you if it is in the amp or in the speakers.  Sometimes side speakers will become damaged from overload or overdrive.

TWO:  Of you really feel it is inside the amp and one or two of the drive amps has failed, it requires technical assistance to replace the amp module.  Cost is moderate at over $100.  If the set is still under warranty, get it to a warranty repair center immediately!

Hope this helps, but let me know if you need more.

Cleggsan