Question about hum from speakers


I know there's at least one amp engineer here... I'd like some help.  I bought a used solid-state amp from ebay; the ad read " McCORMACK POWER DRIVE DNA-.5 Deluxe REV B POWER AMPLIFIER - EXCELLENT CONDITION!"
Well, I swapped it in, replacing a Dynaco Stereo 120, and there's a hum from both speakers.  I have to believe that the seller was well aware of the hum.  What I'm wondering is, is the hum a result of some electronic component(s) in the amp failing (or having failed), such that it's salvageable by replacing the bad component(s)?  Or would that be hoping too much?
bhakti-rider

Showing 1 response by monoogan

If the cheater plug works try the HUM-X device. It goes between the AC plug and outlet and lifts the ground connection by using two diodes wired in parallel in opposite directions. This breaks the low level signal loop but allows current through if you have a short on the chassis.

Yes, they really work. You could easily make one yourself if you wanted to. They are kind of expensive for what they are but they work.