Audible Illusions hiss


My AI Mod 3 has noticeable hiss in both channels. It does not get louder as the gain is increased and is not present when the mute button is on. It also does not matter which source is selected.

Someone said the tubes in these can make a big difference. Does anyone have any experience in this area? Thanks.
128x128wynnosu

Showing 1 response by rpfef

If the level of "hiss" does not change with the gain controls and the same noise is present on all inputs, it is virtually certain the problem is not tubes. Both channels/equal noise also means the difficulty is very likely in the power supply, which feeds each channel equally.
Also be aware that some (however little) noise will be audible normally at zero gain unmuted.
Be sure you are hearing a "hiss" and not a "buzz" (which could indicate a ground problem). Tracking down ground and ground loop problems can be a royal pain in the low end.
If nothing helps, don't hesitate to get it checked out by a reliable technician. You can get reliable recommendations for one of these invaluable persons by asking right here on audiogum.
Good luck. It's a fine preamp.