Is My Onkyo Receiver's Tuner Dead or Just Playing Posum?

I'm getting silence -not static or "white noise" (both AM and FM). The Onkyo tech says the nature of the tuner is to give silence if it can't find a healthy signal. The tuning dial finds stations if I cycle up or down (never get a "stereo" lock, however).
Good idea using internet radio! I was hoping to get WFMT in Chicago (great classical radio) but I guess this will be on the internet.
Just doesn't make sense the tuner going out on a $1200 receiver (close to ten years old). Thanks for the help...

I did a "factory reset" few days ago just to be sure some obscure option wasn't accidentally engaged. Checked most of your suggestions (blindjim) and the dang thing just doesn't work. I have the receiver set up next to my (brick) fireplace. Not sure which direction signal is from. Why does my $40 portable radio work and the Onkyo does not (if weak signals)? I'll just use internet radio...

Yes, tried rabbit ears (screw in coax connection) then tried the "piece of wire" antenna that came with the Onkyo -no dice. Using the "loop" AM antenna supplied by Onkyo -nd. Thanks for the suggestions...

Well, I tried your suggestion. Pressing the "tuner mode" button on my unit only selects between manual tuning and automatic (scans for first useable station). I've used the tuner successfully in Las Vegas many years ago but now, nothing. Some day I'll set it up outside and see if it works there. Thanks for your input!

Wow! That's amazing! I'll see if I can do something similar with mine. Question: Did you ever receive programming? You know, music? Or is it just static... Thanks

 Yes, it's funny the thing just conked out. I really enjoyed the digital-radio feature of this receiver. I may be rearranging my HT room which will let me take the Onkyo outside for a clean signal. Then I'll know for sure.
 P.S. In Vegas, I had a clear line-of-sight to the Black Mountain transmitters (in Henderson). Regards

I tried using the radio next to a window, with two antennas (AM/FM) and zilch, nada, nothing. Tried headphones -nothing. The tuner seems to be working so the amp section must be bad (or it's something simple I haven't found yet). Still works great with movies and TV, however.