If you experience audio problems like the sound going out intermittently and crackling and popping out, you have every reason to suspect problem with the speaker system. However, while the possibility exists you cannot be always sure that the problem lies with a speaker/s.

You need to check a few things before you make up your mind that there is actually something with the speaker that seems to be giving a bad sound.

The crux of the matter is that bad sound from a speaker could be a problem with the speaker itself, speaker wire or the AV receiver.

• Disconnect the speaker and connect to another channel and see if it gives the same problem.
• Connect another speaker to the channel to which the suspected 'bad' speaker was originally connected and see if this speaker gives the same problem or not.
• If the speaker that you suspected was the cause of the problem, it would give the same problem when connected to another channel. If the speaker is still under warranty, you should contact the manufacturer and ask for a replacement. If not, then you need to buy a new speaker.
• On the other hand, if both the speakers demonstrate the same problem when connected to the same channel and not when connected to another channel, try changing the wire that connects to that channel. If it makes a difference and both speakers give good sound then you have found the solution.
• If a problem still exists when you connect another speaker to that channel, then the problem is with the AV receiver. The problem could be minor as in a loose solder joint or something more serious requiring extensive repair.