[SOLVED] Stereo amp cracking and popping one channel only

[negativ3]

Hi all,

I have a Creative Inspire T3130 2.1 channel amp connected to my Raspberry Pi running Openelec.

The audio right channel audibly cracks and pops intermittently regardless of the volume setting (turned all the way down it still presents the problem).

Left and sub channels work just fine.

What in your opinion could be the cause? A lot of hot snot on the board is brittle and has just falls off at the slightest touch.

Thanks all.

[cncjerry]

Inter-stage coupling cap if it uses them.  Could be a poor/cold solder joint on the input side.  Try moving the cables around and flexing the board a little.  A little work with a scope should find it quickly.

[jh15]

noisy transistor too. Try some cooling spray. I think of 2sc 1458 memory maybe wrong of this, but was common.

[cvanc]

Several questionable solder joints on the board...

[voltz]

Several questionable solder joints on the board...

+1 (and well spotted)

And that is the Audio IC. Possibly explains the fault even with volume down. Re-solder all audio IC pins.

If that still does not work, try tapping the PCB with insulated handle of a screwdriver and see if you can locate the area of the PCB that has biggest effect on the noise.

If no effect, then could be an unstable component, try 'freeze it' spray and locate the component that way.

[negativ3]

VERY well spotted cvanc. I will go over the whole board for good measure.

Thanks all for the tips. Will determine the audio IC and get the datasheet as well in case the dry joints do not fix.

[negativ3]

Re soldering those dry joints did the trick. Thanks all for your excellent contributions.