Sony SRS-XB13 Microphone Replacement

Written By: Basim Zahran

Comments: 0

Difficulty

Moderate

Steps

Time Required

1 - 2 hours

Introduction

If you notice that the microphone in your speaker has stopped working, this guide will show you the steps to take to reach the microphone and remove it for replacement. The majority of repair time will be spent attempting to open the device, as it is sealed shut by adhesive. Once open, the repair is straightforward.

Keep in mind that opening the speaker will nullify the IP67 (waterproof and dustproof) rating, and may cause slight external damage when attempting to open.

Tools

Parts

Sony SRS-XB13 Motherboard

Step 1

To get the bottom part of the speaker off, take a long and sturdy screwdriver and put it through the holes at the bottom of the speaker.
When you have the screwdriver through the holes, you'll want to push down very firmly. Rotate between the holes and repeat this process until the bottom piece pops off.
It can be quite difficult to pry the bottom off due to the adhesive connecting the parts. Prying the bottom off may cause damage to the outside of the speaker.
You may find it easier to open the device if you use a heating element (heat gun or hairdryer) around the seam of the device where it is glued shut. Evenly apply heat all around the device, then attempt to pry for this method.
Opening the speaker will nullify its waterproof capabilities.

Step 2

You should see three 11 mm screws once the bottom of the device is off. Use a #1 Phillips screwdriver to remove these screws.

Step 3

To unplug the microphone from the motherboard, use the nylon tipped tweezers to clamp the white block that is attached to the red and white wires.
Pull up and away from the motherboard until the block is fully disconnected from the slot.
The white block is plugged into the motherboard via a beige-colored slot.
Do not tug or pull on the red and black wires when attempting to disconnect the microphone. Doing so can severely damage the wires that power the microphone.

Step 4

Place one end of the ifixit opening tool underneath the white bracket that sits above the motherboard, so that it latches onto the bottom side of the bracket.
With the opposite end of the tool, apply a gentle but firm downward motion to slowly pry the bracket from its position.
The microphone is embedded within the white bracket, so to replace the microphone, you must replace the bracket.
Once enough separation has occurred between the bracket and the motherboard, you can use your fingers to finish fully prying the bracket from its position.
The bracket has multiple edges that can be latched onto with the opening tool. It is recommended to use the opening tool in a counterclockwise pattern around the bracket. This helps prevent damaging the bracket, and smoothly releases it from its position.

Conclusion

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.

Author

Basim Zahran

Member since: 08/09/23

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