2. analog
  3. 1232660666

Grounding Hum

I recently got a new TT for Christmas. It's an MMF 2.2 LE. I think there's a grounding problem or something because there is a slight buzzing noise present. I looked through past threads on the topic here, but nothing seems to fit this situation. I've checked, and rechecked the connection between the TT, and the preamp. I've even used a Fluke voltmeter to check for continuity between the two. I've checked the headshell leads to the cartridge. All is well. Maybe it's the ground wire connection to the turntable itself? I've run out of options. Any ideas?
licoricepizza
darosenb
49 posts
 
Is the IC that runs from your preamp to amp shielded? I recently had this same problem and discovered that it was said IC and not the TT ground. Switching to a different IC did the trick for me.
licoricepizza OP
48 posts
 
It's Monster Cable interconnect cable, if that helps. Besides taking the cable apart, is there a way to tell if it's shielded?
licoricepizza OP
48 posts
 
I finally (3+ days) figured out. I pass along this update in the hopes that it helps someone else out. The source of the hum wasn't grounding at all. It was airborne RF given off by a Kodak camera dock in a distant room. All I can figure is that the electrical circuit for that device went through a wall behind my stereo system.

A big thank you to all those that responded.
licoricepizza OP
48 posts
 
Never mind what I said in the previous post. The buzz returned. After venting my frustration, I went to turn the volume up on the preamp, so I could the noise while I went around the house searching for the source. When I went back to the preamp, I inadvertently touched the faceplate, thereby grounding it, and the hum stopped. My conclusion is that the preamp itself is having a grounding problem, that only be heard when the phono input is selected. So the issue becomes one of grounding the preamp. Any suggestions? I don't want to have to act as the ground myself...
ghstudio
141 posts
 
I didn't read back in this thread...but have you tried the phono input with the phono unplugged...and plugged in? Is there a difference? You might have a loose ground wire in the cartridge assembly/connector. Can you try with the cartridge removed?
More to discover