Got Static?


All:

I am completely vexed and need some suggestions....

The problem: I am hearing occasional "ticks" which I believe are associated with static buildup in my system. The "ticks" occur randomly, roughly one to three times during the playback of a CD. I hear them during vinyl playback as well but it is sometimes hard to distinguish them from surface tics or pops. These "ticks" can sometimes be heard when the system is idling with the mute button disengaged--when the mute is "on" they cannot be heard. The frequency of the "ticks" appears to increase as the humidity level drops--the colder and dryer it is the more of them I hear. Thus, the problem is less of an issue in the summer (unless running the AC) and is pretty darn annoying in the winter. Sometimes, when I touch my gear I receive a small shock which is translated by the speakers. I have tried to ground my rack but this has not helped. Believing it may be a grounding issue I have also tried cheater plugs on my CD player and/or linestage--no change. The funny thing is I have been at this for 25+ years (with many different system configurations) and this issue has never been a problem until the last year or so--can't figure out why it has become one now.

Any ideas about WHAT is causing this and HOW to stop it? Anyone else have this issue?
dodgealum

Showing 2 responses by xti16

I agree with Viridian to a point. If you spray that mixture on carpet it will attract dirt (like anything else). I would suggest that mixture sprayed on a rag then wipe down all your cables (not equipment). I use Nordost Eco 3X which is pretty expensive and very close to the fabric softener and water combo. You may even want to add 1 drop of dish soap to the mix.
Well since this tread started I have been getting a lot of shocks around the house (outside temp has been highs in the single digits and lows well below zero). Also I got a nasty cold. I broke down and bought a humidifier. Took 2 days to get the humidity up to 25% but no more shocks and I feel a bit better too. I still use Nordost Eco 3X for all my cables.