ifi just came out with a product called the DC Blocker, $129. You can buy from Amazon and return if it doesn't solve your problem.
https://ifi-audio.com/products/dc-blocker/
https://ifi-audio.com/products/dc-blocker/
Help! Cure for transformer hum?
ifi just came out with a product called the DC Blocker, $129. You can buy from Amazon and return if it doesn't solve your problem. https://ifi-audio.com/products/dc-blocker/ |
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Big difference between solving mechanical hum in a transformer and solving 60/120Hz hum coming from your speakers. The cable ground loop isolator mentioned above can break a ground loop that is causing hum in your speakers but will do nothing to solve mechanical hum due to DC in your AC. Using a DC blocker will not solve hum coming from your speakers but may reduce or eliminate mechanical hum coming from a power transformer. Often, various legitimate solutions are ineffective because of user error. |
So many helpful suggestions here! Thank you all. This is Audiogon at its very best. A few comments: millercarbon: thanks yet again for the links to specific products. Your audio knowledge is vast, and I'm grateful for it. (BTW, although I do not share your enthusiasm for Schumann resonance generators, I nevertheless have one hooked up to my system.) fiesta75: Sadly (for me), I suspect your advice is likely the most accurate regarding this problem. About the power supply caps, however: when the NAD service tech swapped out the transformers, he checked the caps, and they were OK (not leaking, at any rate; I'm not sure how thorough a test he made of them). In any case, no, they have not been replaced. I know they probably should be. Erik: I am sure I have it plugged into the same circuit (via a power conditioner, btw). In any case, I've tried it in several different plugs, and I've removed it entirely from the system, plugged it in to a remote outlet via a good extension cord, opened it up, and stuck my ear up close; this is how I know the sound is coming from the transformer. In any case, before I made that long drive with both units, one hummed and the other didn't when plugged into the very same outlet. tvad: thanks for the PSAudio troubleshooting guide link. I'll read it this afternoon (I've got a busy day until then). Finally, vinylvalet: Yes, this is a mechanical hum, NOT a ground loop hum. There is no sound coming out of the speakers, and, as I just explained, my ear has located the source of the mechanical hum with good confidence as coming from the transformer. Your further comments tend to confirm millercarbon's advice, which is very encouraging. |
Just an FYI - If you service an amp with any issue, of that age, it is ALWAYS good to replace the electrolytic capacitors. This is a normal procedure for any good tech. I would take it back and have them do it correctly. Maybe you should get your "old" transformer back and re-pot it. After all it's yours, you bought a new one? Please also confirm the hum/buzz is not coming from your speakers. Good luck! |