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Speaker hum problem - need help

I've searched the forums and have seen past posts for this topic, however, I've yet to find an answer that fits my situation.

First, here's my equipment:
Coda CSib integrated amp
Ayre QB-9 DSD DAC
Auraliti PK-90 USB server
Dynaudio Focus 380 speakers
Audience Au-24 speaker cables
Cardas Clear XLR interconnects
Cardas Clear & Grover Huffman power cords
Wireworld Platinum Starlight USB

Here's the problem:

With only the amp plugged into power and the speakers connected, I get a 38 db invariant hum coming out of the speakers. The hum does not change no matter what the volume is on the amp. The hum does not change regardless of whether I have the amp plugged into the: wall, a power strip, or a power conditioner. The hum does not change regardless of power cord connected to it. The hum does not change when I plug in the remainder of components and cords into my system.....it is invariant.

I have tried to "lift the ground" with a 3/2 cheater plug, but this had no impact. I sent the amp back to the factory to be checked out and slightly upgraded; they could not reproduce the hum at the factory. A previous amp (tube) produced the same issue, however, with the tube amp, the hum got worse as the volume was raised.

I love the overall sound of this system, but this hum is definitely getting in the way of my enjoyment. Any thoughts out there about what is causing this problem and how to correct this issue?

Many thanks,

Matt
mwsl

Showing 1 response by tls49

tls49's avatar
tls49
1,351 posts
 
I was able to do the extension cord test. Used a (probably) 14 gauge 25 foot Home Depot type extension cord. Tried it in two separate outlets: one across the living room from the outlets I've mentioned, one down the hall. NO CHANGE!
This test is not exactly like Al recommended,
an extension cord that is long enough to allow you to connect the amp to a different outlet on a different AC run.
The important part is "different AC run." "One across the living room" is likely the same run as any outlet in the living room. "One down the hall" may also be on the same run as the living room. The only way to know is to turn off the breaker for the living room, and see if the hall outlet still has power.

I don't think there is any doubt that this is either an amp issue or house wiring issue(just living room or maybe whole house).

IMHO, the best plan of action would be to take the amp to the hi-fi shop you mentioned, then if it works OK there, you know it is your house. Then try the amp in another room of your house, preferably as far from the living room as you can and if it works OK, it's the living room, or if it hums, then the whole house.

You could try a different room in your house first, but if it hums, then you must take the amp to the hi-fi shop for testing.

Good Luck
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