T61 audio problem only with internal speakers

[GearsForBrains]

I have looked though many pages of search results before I posted this, so I don't think I'm reposting something.

I have a T61, and out of the box I made sure to update all drivers via the System Update tool. I am sure that I am using the latest SoundMAX drivers, even though I think they are awful. Regardless, I have an audio problem that I hope is not hardware related.

When I am using external speakers or headphones (anything through the headphone jack), the audio works perfectly. When I am using the internal speakers, above a certain volume only (pretty much just above a whisper), the audio cuts out for fractions of a second several times a second.

I have tried previous versions of the audio drivers, but no success. Does anyone have an idea what is going on?

[Shade]

Try the fix mentioned in this thread:

http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.ph ... highlight=

[GearsForBrains]

The fix did not work, followed the directions precisely.

I still have the issue, it only happens at higher volumes, and is ridiculously annoying.

[GearsForBrains]

Hate to bump to top, but does anyone know another solution?

[sktn77a]

Well, it doesn't sound like a software problem to me - more a mechanical connection issue (?) What did you do to exclude a hardware problem?

[GearsForBrains]

I have disassembled it to the point where I can remove the speaker assembly. I checked the connection for the signal wires, it was seated fully. I checked for kinks or breaks in the cables, there were none. Would this lead to the conclusion that there is a fault with the Mobo?

[sktn77a]

Well, if it's happening on only one speaker, then this would suggest that speaker. But it sounds like it's on both speakers. Could be a faulty amp circuit, using more power to drive the internal speakers (low impedance) than the headphone/audio output (usually high impedance). In which case it would be a trip to Solectron for a new mobo

Do you have an old DOS program with continuous beep tones (eg an old kiddies game), which would not need a driver?

[GearsForBrains]

Yes, it is both speakers. Would it be easiest to just call up Lenovo and try and get it under warranty? What are typical turn around times for such things?

[sktn77a]

About a week from calling them, receiving the shipping box, sending it to Solectron, repairing it, and getting it back. Backup all your data files first, as they may need to re-image your hard drive as part of the diagnostics.