INTERACT FORUM

Devices => Sound Cards, DAC's, Receivers, Speakers, and Headphones => Topic started by: TimB on April 16, 2004, 11:51:58 pm

Title: OT: Electrical Interference on Speakers
Post by: TimB on April 16, 2004, 11:51:58 pm

I'm getting some buzz on my wall-socket powered speakers when there's no audio (which I understand means I'm getting it somewhat when there's music playing, I just can't hear it as easily).

I've moved the offending device (a backup PC) to another outlet in the same room and the buzz is less but is there anything I can buy to cut this out totally?

Thanks!

-=Tim=-

Title: Re:OT: Electrical Interference on Speakers
Post by: Alex B on April 17, 2004, 05:43:43 am

At first, did you notice that there is a new forum?
Device feedback, Other Hardware (http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php?board=10)
Don't be surprised if somebody moves this there.

You could try to find the interference leak route. Is it by power cord, LAN, TV card antenna cable or even aerial e.g. non-shielded speaker cords or connectors?

If the buzz is transmitted by the wall power sockets I think a cheap one PC UPS in one of the sockets could isolate it.

Title: Re:OT: Electrical Interference on Speakers
Post by: TimB on April 17, 2004, 06:20:42 am

I didn't see that other forum but have to confess even if I had I might not have posted there as the traffic seems pretty slow. ;)  If I have to go there I have to, I'll surrender to J River.

I have power strips on all the outlets but I assume I need more than that?

-=Tim=-

Title: Re:OT: Electrical Interference on Speakers
Post by: Alex B on April 17, 2004, 09:35:35 am

You didn't mention what other connections you have between the PCs besides the mains power.

What happens if you separate those speakers from the PC line out, turn off that PC, but leave the speakers and your second PC powered? Is the buzz still there?

You should try every possible separate combination. In that way you can isolate the route of the interference leak.

Title: Re:OT: Electrical Interference on Speakers
Post by: KingSparta on April 17, 2004, 09:40:57 am

1. Shilded Cable
2. Remove Or Turn Off Other Items On The Same Line (Like A TV Set, And Not Just That Plug)
3. Install A Line Protection Device To Reduce Interfearance
4. is there any local radio or tv stations near?

if you can try eliminating devices or reasons why you may come up with a cure.

Title: Re:OT: Electrical Interference on Speakers
Post by: Alex B on April 17, 2004, 11:06:58 am

So we got moved. It's nice here. Clean and peaceful.  ;D

Title: Re:OT: Electrical Interference on Speakers
Post by: paulr on April 17, 2004, 12:43:43 pm

Not exactly a cheap way to fix the problem, but a power conditioner should solve it.

I wonder why you are having such problems... Is the computer you moved not shielded?

I know a switching power supply (like the one in your computer) can introduce noise back into the wires in your house, but I haven't experienced anything like this in years.  I think most manufacturers are pretty careful about this kind of stuff now.

Are you sure the noise is originating from the power outlet?  IT could be something being emitted by the other computer.  Does it have its case on?

Sorry, just brainstorming. :)

Title: Re:OT: Electrical Interference on Speakers
Post by: TimB on April 17, 2004, 03:08:02 pm

Wow, so many things to do.  I'll try some of them out and report back. :)

Thanks!

-=Tim=-