I have a Sony TA-AX 301..powers up fine.. and can

Try this. With the unit off, listen carefully at the top of the receiver. When you push the power button, you should immediately hear one click, followed by another after 5-20 seconds. If you don't hear the second click, your unit has DC Offset(a damaged amplifier)..If you hear the second click, check to be sure the Tape Monitor switch is not on. You can also look at the RCA(not speaker connections) outputs, and make sure you have nothing plugged in there. If you need more assistance, or would like to inquire about a repair, please visit my website at audioserviceclinic.com. Thank you.

Make sure your speakers are the correct impedance for the amp. They should be 8 Ohm.

Connect them to the Speakers A sockets on the back of the amp.

Set the Speaker selector switch on the amp's front to Speaker A

Connect your source as detailed in the other answers.

Set the graphic EQ to either Off or Flat or put all the sliders to the middle position.

Apart from setting the volume on the amp, that should be it. If there's still no sound then you should recheck your wiring and input selection (make sure the red & white are connected to an IN and not and OUT on the amp). KIf there's still no sound then either the speakers or the amp (or both) have a fault.