2. amps-preamps
  3. 129321-7415

Does anyone notice a reduction in sound quality when a tuner is part of ther audio chain?

I notice that when my tuner is taken out of my audio rack/chain that the sound quality from my system is significantly better. I like the sound of my tuner but when disconnecting it I find the cd player has a much quieter overall sound.  If my tuner is attached but turned off I still find the sound quality less than if the tuner is disconnected completely. Is my best option to simply disconnect the interconnects from the tuner to the preamp when not using the tuner? Would a better preamp resolve this issue or is it a matter of  RF leakage that would happen with any preamp?
128x128mitchb
kalali's avatar
kalali
1,977 posts
 

"...system sounds much better when my streamer is unplugged.."

Really? Can you please elaborate on how are your components physically organized, e.g., one on top of the other, on a rack, etc., particularly the streamer? Also, some specifics about the streamer would be helpful, e.g., WiFi or hardwired, etc. I just find it real intriguing to hear that sort of experience.

jl35
3,926 posts
 
I unplugged my streamer and some other devices after reading a one page Greg Weaver article in the Mar/2017 TAS... Cleaner AC Power
schubert
7,386 posts
 
For that matter turning off Cable and Wi-_Fi can make  a difference ,
sfall
346 posts
 
" I just find it real intriguing to hear that sort of experience."

Just to give you another example, I had the same type of problem when I bought a cheap mass market player (Sony 9000ES) to try SACD. When the Sony was in the system, my other components took a noticeable hit in SQ. The fix was a JPS Digital AC powercord and an ESP line conditioner.
theo's avatar
theo
2,660 posts
 
My first thought is grounding. What type of antenna are you using?
Does the tuner have a 3 prong plug, if so try lifting the ground and also disconnect the antenna when you have it in the system and see if you can isolate the problem. Just a though.
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