Realistic STA-2250 Stereo Receiver Distorted Audio

[Flamedemon]

I recently purchased a cheap Realistic STA-2250 from an original owner who had issues with it but never tried to fix them. The main issue is distorted audio on both channels (Speaker A and B) across all inputs. Additionally, when powering on the receiver, I hear a buzzing sound coming from the transformer that lasts about 3-4 seconds before going silent.

From what I’ve read, a transformer issue usually affects the display or causes other electrical problems, so I don't believe the buzzing is the cause of the audio distortion. I'm thinking the problem lies elsewhere.

Here’s what I’ve tried so far:

• Cleaned all the knobs and switches with contact cleaner (no improvement)

I have some experience with soldering and using a multimeter, so I’m looking for some guidance on what to check next or where the problem might be.

Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Sandman1221]

I am fairly inexperienced, so I am just repeating what I have seen experts say for "something" like this, "noisy output transistors". Try searching posts with that term. It is getting late on the East-coast, so figured you may not get many responses until tomorrow. Good luck!

 

[century tek]

Both channels acting up usually points to a power supply issue.

It could be a cold solder joint or a bad voltage regulator. You are going to have to troubleshoot it with a meter.

 

[djwhy60]

I recently purchased a cheap Realistic STA-2250 from an original owner who had issues with it but never tried to fix them. The main issue is distorted audio on both channels (Speaker A and B) across all inputs. Additionally, when powering on the receiver, I hear a buzzing sound coming from the transformer that lasts about 3-4 seconds before going silent.

From what I’ve read, a transformer issue usually affects the display or causes other electrical problems, so I don't believe the buzzing is the cause of the audio distortion. I'm thinking the problem lies elsewhere.

Here’s what I’ve tried so far:

• Cleaned all the knobs and switches with contact cleaner (no improvement)

I have some experience with soldering and using a multimeter, so I’m looking for some guidance on what to check next or where the problem might be.

Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated!

I have had issues with "buzzing" on start up of some of my Realistic gear. It has ALWAYS been an arcing power switch. I would look in that direction with the buzz first.