How to Troubleshoot a JVC Stereo

JVC stereo systems come in a number of different styles and models, from portable "boom boxes" to stereo receivers designed to be used with entire entertainment systems. When a JVC stereo malfunctions, it's a good idea to perform a few basic troubleshooting steps to correct the problem. Often, the solution is very simple, involving something you can correct immediately and which will allow you to continue using your JVC stereo system without having to call a repairman.

Check the cable connections to the JVC to make sure the speakers are properly connected and the stereo is in sync with the rest of your A/V system. This is a very basic step endemic to all electronics equipment: Without firm cable connections, the sound just won't come through. Check the other components on the other end of the cables as well, and if any of the connection parts are dirty, clean them with some rubbing alcohol and a paper towel.

Turn off the stereo, unplug it, wait 5 minutes, then plug it in again and check to see if the problem has been corrected. JVC uses microprocessors in many of its stereo systems that retain information as long as there's power. When you cut off the power, the microprocessors are reset to their factory settings, and the problem should clear up.

Examine the disc you are playing to make sure it is compatible with the JVC stereo. If the disc was burned from a computer and contains multiple types of files (like MP3 and DivEx), the JVC will only play one file type at a time, and will skip those of alternate files. The disc may also have been produced illegally, in which case the JVC stereo will display a message reading "No Audio." In addition, the disc may be scratched, and--for systems that play DVDs--the DVD may come from a different region, such as Europe or Japan. In those cases, the JVC will display a message reading "Playable Err."

Check the subwoofer button ("S.Wfr Out") and the amplifier control if the subwoofers or tweeters will not play. The amp controls need to be set to "Bi-Amp" for the tweeter to work, and the subwoofer button needs to be turned on for the subwoofers to work.

If your DVD or CD drive won't open, press the "Stop" button and the "Eject" button at the same time. That enables and disables the locking feature on JVC stereo systems that is used to keep discs in place.