Buzzing 354 Harman Kardon receiver

[Meir]

I’m curious whether or not it would be worth while getting the 354 repaired?
It started humming pretty good this last while and I haven’t changed any components or varied where the power source is.
Is it reasonable to get transformers or capacitors changed, if indeed is the problem?

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

buzzing could come from a simple thing like slightly loose screws.
Is it worth repairing? Are you going to try to do it yourself and contain costs under $50 - if so - yes - repair it. But if you're looking to ask a pro to fix it, just the inspection/diagnosis could cost you a $100 or more. Repair another $50-150.

For approx $150-200 you could score same or better AVR on the second-hand market easily.

 

[lovinthehd]

Yes, audible humming from the chassis of the unit or heard thru the speakers? Might be simple....might not.

 

[Meir]

A local electronic technician asks 35 to check it and go from there.
He suggests possibly 150$.
From your comments I guess it’s flip of the coin?

 

[TLS Guy]

A local electronic technician asks 35 to check it and go from there.
He suggests possibly 150$.
From your comments I guess it’s flip of the coin?

I'm not convinced there is anything wrong with your receiver. A ground loop in your system could easily have developed. All it takes is an oxidized RCA connector.

Now please answer these questions.

Is there a buzz or vibration from the actual unit?

Is there a buzz coming out of the speakers?

If you disconnect all inputs, and that means everything except the speakers, does the buzz go away?

If the answer is yes, to the last question you have a ground loop and the receiver is fine.

If there is a problem with a 10 year old receiver like that, do not waste any money on repair. That is the useful life span of a unit like that and if you repair it, it will be something else next month.

 

[Meir]

Thank you. That’s very good advice.
I’m going to try that and get back with results.