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WiFi Satellite Causing Phono Stage Interference

Greetings,

I use a Orbi WiFi satellite that connects to my audio components, including the Streamer.  I run almost entirely a McIntosh system, with the exception of my Sonore streamer.  Due to house configurations I cannot main line from the router to the audio components, so I have to use the Orbi Whole House Mesh system.

The problem is that the WiFi satellite causes some sort interference with the Mac Phono Preamp.  I can tell because one of the meters flutters.  I have actually seen this issue at audio stores as well. They had no idea what caused it, nor really seemed to care.  I finally figured it out through trial and error.  Not sure what the correct acronym is, but it does create an audible hum when I really crank up the system volume without a LP playing, but the preamp is still turned to phono.

I had the same issue in my old house, but was able to move the Orbi Satellite far away in another room by running ethernet cables around and through duct work. This new house is not so forgiving.

Wonder if anyone has had a similar situation, and if so what they did to remove the issue, aside from running 30 feet of Ethernet cable from another part of the house.  Or, if anyone has thoughts about what can be done, please exercise your thinking.

Hopefully I have given y’all a good idea of what is happening.

Thanks in advance

pgaulke60
erik_squires
16,068 posts
 

I'm assuming you are using Ethernet from the Orbi to your streamer?  Ethernet is almost completely immune to ground loops (it's designed to be isolated).  If you are using a power conditioner, keep the Orbi's wall wart out of the clean side.  If not, consider replacing the wall wart with an iFi equivalent.

In all cases though try to keep the wifi part as far from the phono stages as possible, and use fully shielded interconnects and/or power cables.  Fully shielded power cables can be had relatively cheaply (~ $30).

erik_squires
16,068 posts
 

Actually, replace the wall wart no matter what. :)

pgaulke60 OP
299 posts
 

@erik_squires 

Yes, I have the Ethernet going directly from the Orbi to the streamer.

I have a Mac Power Conditioner (Controller) and the Orbi is plugged into it, with all the other components. Not sure what it means to keep it out of the clean side?  Does that mean not to plug the Orbi into the power conditioner?

All the cabling is Clarus Crimson, so I think my cables, power cords and interconnects are good.

You are suggesting getting a new iFi equivalent power cord for the Orbi? Is that correct?  Where would I find such a thing?

Thanks again for the help.

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