Interesting post. I have some distortion--not exactly static--at volumes I would think the stereo should be just fine with. I have a Europa Mono. I haven't investigated too far into it because even at moderate volume Neil Young sounds great while cruising along Highway 1. The speaker is new--definitely the unit that is putting out the distortion.

For your static: I would pull the unit, check the antenna plug on the back, open the stereo up, clean out all the dust and crap, and use contact cleaner on all the moving parts. Check all your speaker connections. Seems like a maintenance issue and not a part failure. Look for corrosion and oxidation.

Cheers.