Speakers cut out in heat? Or what?

My car was stolen; naturally, all my stereo equipment was stolen, too. I had a new system installed about 2 and a half months ago - 4 Infinity speakers, 6.5" Eclipse CD head unit, model CD5444 Everything was fine in that 30-day warranty period, of course. Almost immediately after, suddenly the sound went out - radio, CD player, MP3 output. The head unit still acts as though it works; the display is normal, and it still beeps when you scan stations. This problem comes and goes. I think that it has something to do with the summer heat - doesn't seem to have a problem when the weather's cool.    I also notice a small popping sound from my front speakers when I turn on the power. Is this a wiring deal, or...is the amp overheating...or is something metal breaking the circuit somewhere between amp and speaker? The company that installs will not fix, or even look at the problem without charging me, although I purchased the system from them less than 3 months ago! I am familiar with sound equipment and wiring, soldering, etc - but all from a theatre pov - never installed in a car before, and I know it's an art unto itself...but maybe I can fix this sucker on my own! Anyone?

Sounds like the amplifier in the HU is going out.  Eclipse's warranty is longer than 30 days... did you buy it from an authorized dealer?Support the12volt.com

Thank you for such a quick reply! Yes, I bought it at an authorized dealer. I'll have to check the warranty and all that... How can I be sure that this is the problem? Any way to check it besides...just waiting for it to come on again...? What's that popping sound?

I wonder if this could be a cold solder issue in the headunit? I have seen that same symptom on an Alpine unit once and that was the cause.2003 Chevy Avalanche,Eclipse CD7000,Morel Elate 5,Adire Extremis,Alpine PDX-4.150, 15" TC-3000, 2 Alpine PDX-1.1000, 470Amp HO Alt.

Yes, both issues could easily be caused by a cold solder joint on the HU motherboard.  Take it in for testing and repair.  If you have to send it back to Eclipse, that's too bad but it is worth the wait.Support the12volt.com

Dont forget the amplifiers must have some form of ventilation, especially in this summer heat. Heat sinks can only do so much and thats only if they are mounted in the upright position. A little 12volt brushless computer fan does wonders and it is easy to install. Even a little air movement is better than none. Good Luck!Nay-Nay