How can I stop a loud buzzing sound coming accross my home audio system?

Question

My pc is connected to three different stereo recievers in my home so I can listen to MP3s playing on my pc whether I'm in the bedroom, basement, or family room. All are fine, accept the one in the family room. When it is connected and turned on, there is an annoying buzz that comes accross on the entire system. How do I make it stop?

Answer 1

Try using another source to the same input.  If it clears up, you have a cable problem to that receiver.  You already know that the source itself is good because it works with the other two receivers.  By cable problem I mean that it could be the cable, connections, or where the cable is run.  You can pick up noise from almost anything it may run close to.

Answer 2

There could be several causes, but it sound like a ground loop problem.  I'm curious as to how your connecting your PC to three different receivers.  Maybe your not doing the sound card audio output distribution properly.

I recommend reading the Rane not below as your problem is most likely addressed there.

Answer 3

I can think of two things that might be causing this.

1. Maybe the audio cables aren't making a good connection. Check that they're plugged in properly.

2. Maybe some interference from an electronic item in your house? I've even had it happen with a light bulb in my house.

Answer 4

unplug other electronics. fix the antenna. place it near a window.

Answer 5

I had that VERY SAME problem. After researching this problem on the web, I went to Radio Shack and bought a ground loop isolator- about $17. It solved the problem BIG TIME.  The buzz is now GREATLY reduced to barely noticeable.

Answer 6

Sounds like a ground differencial.  Is the outlet you are plugged into grounded?