BEST INTERCONNECT FOR $25 EACH?

I think it started out that way ...

"Your connection scheme may work in your system, but I know for sure it wouldn’t work in mine. I can’t see any value in using an amplifier - as opposed to the preamplifier - as the common ground connection."

+1 cleeds

Many years ago when amps and preamps began using 3 prong AC cords, it was recommended that if there was a hum in the system, then use a cheater plug on the amp. I actually heard this at a CES show from a highly respected amp designer.

"Also, the term ’source tend’ seems ambiguous to me"

terry9

That’s why I tend to say sending end, no confusion. If you think sending end is not the correct way to connect shield/drain, then you should notify all the cable manufacturers that’s been doing it wrong, some for ~35 years.

@cleeds 

"we can say a "ground loop" is formed whenever two or more grounds are at different potentials"

I don't think so. From Wiki, "A ground loop is caused by the interconnection of electrical equipment that results in there being multiple paths to ground, so a closed conductive loop is formed."

Closed.

Two components with ground pins connected to different grounds, whose grounds are electrically connected e.g. with a shield, forming a loop. Or, a line inside a balanced cable connecting the grounds of two pieces of equipment, plus a shield also connecting same, forming a closed conductive loop.

"What would be the purpose of running all the grounds through the pickup arm and cartridge?"

Exactly my point.

@tls49 

I think that this addresses your concerns as well.

Now let's return control of this thread to the OP, don't you think?

terry9

Read the entire article at Wiki. It states what cleeds has said.

And this,

https://www.its.bldrdoc.gov/fs-1037/dir-017/_2498.htm

And no, you have not addressed my concerns. It’s clear your opinion is different and you are certainly entitled to it. Since my thinking is in line with all the cable manufacturers, nothing you say can change it. It’s just too hard to believe that they have been making cables wrong for so many years.

terry9

@cleeds

"we can say a "ground loop" is formed whenever two or more grounds are at different potentials"

I don’t think so. From Wiki, "A ground loop is caused by the interconnection of electrical equipment that results in there being multiple paths to ground, so a closed conductive loop is formed."

You don’t seem to understand what a ground loop actually is, and neither do you seem willing to understand it. So it’s no wonder that you’re confused about how to cure or prevent the problem.

The link provided by @tls49 provides a fairly succinct explanation of what a ground loop is.

Have a nice day.