Stereo or multi-channel systems often fail in predictable ways, so it helps to take a consistent approach to troubleshooting. The steps below will help you isolate operational problems to a specific component or area where the problem originates.
How to Quickly Diagnose a Bad Amplifier – Starts Up, No Sound
If one speaker channel does not play, regardless of the input, you can determine with more certainty that the problem is with the speakers.
For example, if the problem only occurs with DVDs and not with another source, such as a radio or CD player, then it is possible that the DVD player or the cable that connects the player to the receiver or amplifier is defective. Replace that cable with a new one or swap it with a known-good cable to see if that works.
Start at the speaker and work your way toward the receiver or amplifier. Check the entire length of wire thoroughly for breaks or disconnections. It doesn't take much force to cause permanent damage to most cables.
