I have a Realistic CTR-54 that fads in and out. At times when I switch it from tape to radio, the volume gets higher again. Other times, when the radio is on and I press any tape function, the radio gets higher again. Anyone have any idea on the issue here? The sound will sometimes be at normal level for a couple of minutes then suddenly the volume level drops dramatically. I have checked it out and cannot visibly see anything wrong. Thanks.

Trying cleaning the controls. If that doesn't work, you may have a failing component. If that is the case, you may be able to isolate the component by spraying selectively with cooling/freeze spray. When the sound goes back to normal after spraying that resistor, transistor, whatever, you've probably found the culprit.