Drivin' me Crazy


I have a buzz coming through my preamp that is intermittent and only through the phono stage. I can tap the preamp and it goes away for a little while but always returns. I have a TAD-150 signature, a tubed pre with two input tubes, which is otherwise excellent sounding. I have changed tubes, inverted my turntable plug and checked and double checked my ground. I also have tightened every screw on the preamp. It seems to get better when I put pressure or weight on the top of the preamp. Any other suggestions?
Ag insider logo xs@2xhoopster
I had the same issue with a phono pre. Nothing I could do fixed it and finally sent it in for repair and upgrades. I went through that self fix roller coaster for months, my suggestion if you cannot track it down in a day or two send it in for repair.
good luck!
I'm guessing it is a mechanical transformer buzz. Try tightening the hold down and maybe applying some mortite or other damping compound. These can be difficult to stop.
I tightened the transformers and the power supply and life is indeed better. It is not gone completely but we are on the right track.
I had the same thing happen between my pre and phono stage and went through all the possibilities for the fix. When I changed the interconnects, it went away.

Food for thought