Quote:
If I shake the Empeg, I can hear it.


Are you sure? Do you actually hear a screw rolling about in the player or simply hear a rattle?
The rattle could very well be the dock connector or even the drive.

If you absolutely hear a screw, I would refrain from trying to apply power to the player.
You will only make things worse but shorting out a different component.

Check for funny burnt smells.
Use the vents on the side of the player.
You may not smell what you are looking for if you sniff from the top air vent.
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