Low level Hum in Phono Signal Path


There is a distinct low level hum noise evident through my speakers when the phono mode is on. Can't be heard from the seating area but can be heard when your ear is in front of the speaker, either side. This noise is also dependent on the volume; the higher the volume the louder the noise. What is causing this noise and can it be remedied. (Equipment involved: BAT PK 5 phono preamp, Transrotor turntable with Benz Micro Ruby 3H cartridge)
frepec

Showing 1 response by bdgregory

I've had this problem a lot on various vinyl rigs I've tried, and I think this is a pretty common issue. I've had varying success in eliminating it and am hardly an authority, but here are some things I'd suggest:
- check the ground from your table to the preamp - make sure it's good and solid.
- check whether the position of your table with respect to your preamp makes a difference and relocated it accordingly.
- get some Craig DeOxit contact cleaner and apply it to every contact in the signal chain - headshell connections, interconects and ground.
- make sure the TT ground connection goes to your tonearm as well as the TT subchassis.

If you can't hear it from your listening position at normal listening levels that's good, and if you can get it cleaned up so you can't hear it at above normal volume levels (ie from your seat, with nothing playing, volume setting higher than normal), you may have to be satisfied with that. This is because you may reach diminishing returns, and IMHO this is just the fact of life with certain arms, cartridges, preamps, and the combination of them. You're likely to have more of this hum on vinyl than with CD or other inputs, even under ideal conditions. The alternative is swap components.

PS - johnbrown - good on you for calling out acoustat6.