VAC Signature 2a Preamp Question


Before you say, "Dude, there's already a thread posted about this question!" Well, forgive me, I could not find it. This is an inquiry for Signature 2a owners who have the built-in MC/MM phono stage: When the selector is on #6, which is the turntable, I get a background hum and some of what is probably tube rush, and it's especially audible with no music playing with the volume up. When I switch to the DAC setting, with the same volume setting, everything is dead quiet. Do I have a problem or is this normal?

Your feedback is welcome and appreciated,
Alón
Ag insider logo xs@2xalonski
I had this problem with my Phi Beta preamp, which is much like the 2a Sig. As others have said, you simply have to move the power supply as far away as possible, at least 3 feet.
Gentlemen,
Two issues with moving the power supply out of the rack: first, it looks so darn cool to have all four VAC logos lit up at night while tubes are glowing... (See rack photo on my system page). So, now that I've outed myself as one who cares about the esthetics of my system, not just the sound... Here's the real issue: I have nowhere to hide the PS, unless I stand it on its side between the rack and the couch, something I don't want to do to this beautiful component. No other place is available, and the amps are too heavy to go to higher shelves, so I think for now, if it's indeed a proximity issue, I'll just have hum along with the hum... Thanks everyone for trying to help!

Alón
You're right, it really does look cool, that's one of the things I like about my Phi 200 as well. I know it's not as aesthetically pleasing, but could you move one of the amps down off the rack and put it on a lower platform in front of the rack, then put the power supply on the bottom shelf? Otherwise, maybe get a high output cartridge? :^)
Just take the amps the hell out from the rack and pur PS on the lowest shelf.
You have a beautiful system, but I'm sorry to say, but it is a rack update time for you
I have nowhere to hide the PS, unless I stand it on its side between the rack and the couch, something I don't want to do to this beautiful component.
That's probably a non-starter for technical reasons as well, at least without an ok from Kevin. It would cause the heat generated within the PS to concentrate at unintended internal locations, very conceivably resulting in premature failure.

Best regards,
-- Al