Stereo Questions

["Bell, Jason" <jason_bell@xxxxxxxx>]

Good Afternoon Everyone, 

As a newcomer to the digest, I've been very impressed with all of the
technical dialogue and troubleshooting tips that are discussed.  I'm hoping
someone can help me out with some puzzling problems I'm having with my
stereo.

I have recently purchased an '89 325iX (in great shape by the way) but one
of the quirks of the car is that the tuner will cut out intermittently.  The
stereo, speakers and amp are all stock (stereo model # CM5907).  About a
week ago, my power antenna would automatically lower (and sometimes
re-extend itself) for unknown reasons, which would cut out the tuner
reception.  (I solved that by quickly turning the stereo off and back on.)
But now the antenna is fine and stays extended whenever the stereo power is
on.  The cassette player works perfectly.  The only problem is that
sometimes the tuner works, and other times it is just emits silence.

I had my mechanic look at it the other day (when the antenna was lowering
itself) and he seemed to think that the problem was a bad amp that was
cutting off power to the stereo and antenna.  He said that a factory amp
would be too expensive and I should just buy an aftermarket stereo.

I'd really like to keep the original system if possible, but I don't want to
spend a fortune on it if it's not worth it.  My questions are:

*	Any ideas as to what is causing this problem?
*	If so, how do I go about fixing it?
*	And if it is a waste of time, any systems you might recommend (in
the $300 - $400 range)?
   
Thanks for your help! (feel free to respond on the digest or privately)

Jason Bell
jason_bell@domain.elided
New BMW CCA member
'89 325 iX (which may get a new chip for Christmas...)

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