Studio monitors - ground loop issues?

[anonymous-user]

[redacted]

[benz0]

I'd wager it's your soundcard.

Try using a cheap usb one such as Behringer UCA 202 which is about 20 quid

[TonyRPH]

Sounds like an earth loop to me (as you suggest).

The PC has a mains earth and so do the speakers.

One solution is to try powering both items from the same bank of sockets (if you're not already).

The other solution is to get a ground isolator (usually used in car radio installations) however this is likely to compromise quality a bit.

Try Ebay search

Edited by TonyRPH on Thursday 1st December 20:15

[Crackie]

benz0 said:

I'd wager it's your soundcard.

Try using a cheap usb one such as Behringer UCA 202 which is about 20 quid

^ This.

[megaphone]

Are the monitors grounded through the mains cable? I think they run on a standard IEC mains lead?

You could try lifting the earth on the plug, you'd be better off getting another mains lead to try it, one with a removable 13a plug. Not ideal but has worked for me in the past. Means your speakers won't have an earth! So just do for testing.


But as said above, likely a dodgy sound card.

Edited by megaphone on Friday 2nd December 11:13

Edited by megaphone on Friday 2nd December 11:14

[TonyRPH]

DAC via optical out is the best solution, as it provides galvanic isolation.