Kenwood GE 4030 EQ. My mother bought a different component for a Kenwood stereo for every Christmas and Birthday for about three years. Had a complete system in my bedroom by the time I was 16. I'll be 48 in two weeks and I unboxed the whole setup and hooked it up. Everything was wrapped back in the plastic and packed back in the boxes. 

Seeing it all light up and listening to it for the first time 25-30 was good for my heart. 

(If you're wondering, the first song I listened to, was The Four Horseman by Metallica)

Anyway, the EQ powered up, the spectrum analyzer works as is should, but you can't adjust any of the bands. The display appears to be adjusting, but no change in the sound. 

Powering on and off while listening confirmed that there was no change in sound. 

Consulted the manual to ensure I had the settings correct and was connected to the receiver correctly.

So I decided to open it up. I am be no means well versed in electronics. I can solder, and use a multi-meter, and replace outlets and light switches without shocking the shit out of myself, but that's about it. 

Two things I noticed immediately:

1. The white goo. I'm assuming that's a melted capacitor or something along those lines. 

2. This brown varnish like residue on the circuit board. It dry and solid. (Smoked alot of pot and Marlboros in my bedroom in the 90's)

Any help or advice would well appreciated. 



Can I please get some advice or guidance?