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Xperia Mini Pro video playback static background noise

sushis

Lurker
I'm happy with my new Xperia Mini Pro in general, but can't get over the annoying static background noise when playing recorded videos. After some googling it seems many other users have the same problem.
Can this be fixed with a firmware update or is it a hardware issue? Is it the same with all Xperia Mini Pros?


Debating whether to return it and get a different make phone...
 
This is not a localised issue, it has been reported by multiple users and extends across multiple manufacture weeks of the Mini Pro.

Manufacturing dates affected (you can check under your battery for the build date of your device):
  • 11W28
  • 11W29
  • 11W30
  • 11W31

I have 11W30 and have confirmed the problem exists. The electric static sound is noticeable both in playback of recorded video and by simply placing the reverse of the phone to your ear while the screen is lit. That crackling electrical sound is NOT normal!

Multiple users have filed errors with SE Service depts. and investigations seem to taking place. I am awaiting a response from SE support here in Denmark.

There is a thread stating the problem on the official SE community here:
Main: Strange Background Sound

SE have posted an official comment implying an investigation on this YouTube video, which highlights the problem:
Sony ericsson xperia mini pro SK17i Video sample(720p Autofocus) - YouTube

On going discussion on the issue and updates on service reports are taking place on xda-developers here:
[MINI PRO][SK17] Strange noises on audio / video recordings [Archive] - xda-developers

Check your device either with the reverse of the phone to your ear with the screen on, or by recording a video and playing it back at full volume.

Report the problem to SE via email, phone or on the SE community linked to above.

Report back here or on XDA, your build dates so we can assist SE in remedying this handset problem.

- jiminee
 
I have the same issue about the static noise with my Mini Pro. I had all my software upgrades, which may have solved the issue for native software, but when I downloaded an audio-only recorder to use, the problem was very obvious. The issue is that the motherboard or something is buzzing. You can hear it if you put your phone against your ear when the phone's screen is on and not in sleep-mode. The microphone picks up the hardware noise when it is recording.


I looked around the Sony Ericsson website help area, and a representative there said that you should call Sony for a repair. One customer in India sent his and received completely new hardware in return. The sticker inside his phone changed, and identifies another date of manufacture, so it was not just a swapping out of a chip or something.


I got an RMA number from calling the Sony Help center without a problem, and just shipped my phone for a repair to the Sony Laredo Customer Service Center in Texas. I read some numbers from my phone's sticker, and the help rep didn't even put up a fight. It was as if her screen told her there should be automatic approval for my numbers.


If any of you have a phone with the production date of 11W25 to 11W42 (look on your sticker -- mine was 11W32), you should call Sony for a repair.
 
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