Static from Aesthetix phono stage when tt not on

Bill, my first thought would be to use the basic testing methods we would use with any component. First unplug the entire phono rig from your preamp, and see if there is any change. If it goes away, the problem is somewhere before the preamp. If it doesn't, then it is in the preamp or after. Assuming the problem went away, plug in just the IO without the turntable. If problem shows, then check the IO by swap-out. Being a dealer, you must have some other phono section around somewhere. Swap out the IO for another phono section and see if the sound goes away. If it does, then you know it's in the IO. If not, then continue the process back to the turntable, with the swap-out method. Obviously, you can't swap out for a new Rockport, but if everything else checks out, you may have to just plug in some other turntable to see if that does it. With new equipment, once you have isolated the problem down to the offending item, then have it replaced by the manufacturer under warranty.

Likely the Io and if in both channels it is probably a power supply tube unless you are running two supplies as Albert does.....It sure wouldn't hurt to get the ICs up off the floor either.....I used to have four Rockports in my neighborhood including two similar to the System II Sirius and nobody has complained of static problems.....

Bill- Do the problems ever end! Makes you wonder if it would be easier and cheaper to maintain the 512tr!!! Though I suppose you couldn't use that when its snowing ;) If you get the bugs out of your rig I am sure you will need to find something else that is systamtically problem prone, its always a challenge to over come! ~Tim

I'm embarrased to say that I'm having a hard time recreating the problem. Mike Lavigne reminded me that the platter is not conductive so that every time I take a record off it builds up static in the Rockport. Also, he suggested that the central ac may be creating some line static when it cycles on.

I'm going to take a lot more time listening and do my best to isolate the issue.

I'll try your recommendations and get back to this thread as soon as I know more.

Bill E.

Hi,
Looks like by having 2 ground bar, you created a ground loop. Try to use single ground for audio gear.

Using a silver-based ground wire helps tremendously, especially if you can find an 8ga silver litz wire for ground.

Silver plated ground bar helps further. Common Home Depot ground bar may be zinc plated and
have dielectric effect.