Audio Systems: sony reciever model STR-D311, sony receivers, phono input

Question
I have a Sony reciever about 8 years old, that
when you turn it on and hook up the CD player,
the tuner and the phono, neither of them will play.
The lights come on but won't transmit sound. Everything seems to be hooked together properly. (I have had three friends try to get it going).
Could it be a tube broken? We checked the main tube and it looked o.k.
Any suggestions as where to take it to in the Chicagoland area and if it is worth it to pay to get it fixed?

Answer
Dear Lorraine,

I'm not aware of a single Sony receiver make in the last decade which uses tubes. Sony receivers categorically use transistors--solid state components. Can't imagine which "tube" you inspected.

I'm not familiar with repair facilities in Chicagoland, but consider this. The going rate for a diagnostic test is 1/2 hour's labor, about $75 these days, with that amount credited toward the eventual repair cost if you choose to proceed. So your cost going in is $75 and most likely more.

You can buy a brand new Sony receiver (the STR-DE197) for as little as $150, altho' I'd suggest the next higher up model, the STR-DE598 for $200. Make sure the model you buy has a PHONO input, since you seem to have a turntable. Turntables will not work in any input not labeled PHONO.

Good luck. And thanks for choosing allexperts.com!

Kindest regards,

Kevin