Why do my transformers hum sometimes?


The power in my home theater seems to be especially bad. In order to improve things, I'm using a Monster AVS 2000 voltage stabilizer for my main components, an additional filtered power strip for the front end components and an isolation transformer for the subs. At times (very frequently on Saturday afternoons), all of the transformers in my system hum audibly. Anybody know why that is? My guess is that the 60 Hz AC sine wave becomes distorted somehow but I don't really know.
jlambrick
I used to have this problem off and on over the years with my Bryston and Conrad Johnson amp. My Jeff Rowland Design Group Continuum 500 has an incredible effect solution. The 500's Power Factor Correction takes ANY AC and converts it to 385V DC (yes, you read that right). The amp is dead-quiet in all conditions. There no transformer hum, 60-cycle or otherwise and no hiss. (You can put your ear to the tweeter at normal listen level with the source off and you hear nothing).

It take the regeneration concept, but doesn't convert back to AC, staying in DC for quiet operation.

Dave
Thanks for the responses guys. It sounds like I'm just going to have to live with it since any real solution would break my bank.
A brief addition. The Equitech website may be of help as it offers quite an overview of power problems. If not you might give them a call. I found an Equitech 2Q solved my hum problems. Their Balanced transformers are quite different than regular isolation transformers. Costwise you could try one of their "blowout" units, if they are available.
Halogens!!!! & other similar noise makers like dimmer switches & PCs! Halogens are deadly. They dump so much noise on AC lines you can hear the trafos across the room. Even if they're on another circuit.

You'll know instantly if you have this problem. Turn the lights off and listen.