Radio cutting in and out?

Question

I am listening to an FM radio station and the sound keeps cutting in and out. When it is playing, there is a perfect signal and no interference. However, it keeps cutting out so there is no sound coming whatsoever from the radio. I noticed that there is an orange light that says "ST" on it when the sound is off. When the sound is on, the light says "ST" again, but this time there are two circles to the right of the "ST". After the music stops, it helps if I physically touch the radio or its antenna to bring the music back, so I am thinking it is a reception problem. However, I would prefer the radio go to static when there is a reception problem rather than cutting out completely. It seems that my radio cuts out if there is the slightest interference, which is really undesirable. Is there any way that I can do this? The radio is a Sharp XL-HP500 if that makes a difference.

Thanks.

Answer 1

There is a button on your tuner (not radio - a radio is just one part of a tuner) that is meant to cut down on static and make local stations clearer. If you make sure the button is not engaged you can pick up stations that are further away. If it weren't for the light you mention, I'd suspect a short in the speakers or the tuner itself. But look around for a button labeled FM Muting or Muting Mode and disengage it.

-a guy named duh

Answer 2

Usually you will have noise if it's a reception problem and you would be able to receive stations real close to you (usually there is a FM transmitter so close that you don't need a antenna to listen in).. but the no audio has me..espcially if cranked up high and you have no hiss.

The ST means you have the stereo set for stereo mode.

The two round deals mean that the radio is now picking up the station in stereo (confirming the reception part a little)

but check the antenna as people have said and it's connections as that is most likely the case, but in extreme instances, it can be internal to the radio itself causing it also and when touched it brings it back to life and jarring either moves the antennna or the joint back into contact.

check the antenna as was said, if not you may have a internal radio issue (as usually on full blast, the radio will hiss if reception issue, but make no noise if internal issues)

also try a better antenna

Answer 3

its probably on their side of the end

Answer 4

i agree w/ Duh,  or, if its an older boombox type, you may just have a crappy antenna.  bust out the good old foil or coat hanger and see if that helps.