Dell Xps 14 (L401x) speaker malfunctioning

Hi all

I am using my Dell Xps 14 (L401x) since march 2011 but recently my JBL speaker have started to produce crackling and unpleasant output at a slightly high volume (above 40%). Songs and audio with bass have always been a problem at full (100%) audio, but since couple of days its completely gone out of hands. :(

the only change i have done in my system is the OS. I am using Windows 8 (From 6 months) but the system had not shown any such issues within this period also.

The other thing is i am not able to  find a spare (refurbished/new/pulled out) speaker set from the online parts sites and dell out of warranty service always quotes hefty repair charges ( they almost amount to cost more than the systems value itself :/)

so can anybody help me on this.. or have a work around..