Turntable /Cartridge hum


I’ve written about this before, but the problem seems to have gotten worse.
I have the unfortunate combination of a Rega (modified RP3) turntable and a Grado (Sonata Reference) cartridge, both of which are known for hum issues.
Whereas the sound is fabulous to my ears, there is a loud hum that I can hear when I get close to the speakers.  Fortunately I can’t hear it when the music is playing, but I certainly know it’s there, and somehow must be affecting the sound.  Also, I’ve just begun to not even a sort of fluttering sound that was not there before coming from the speakers.
Can anyone suggest an even partial remedy for these problems other than getting rid of turntable or cartridge, or both?
Only problem is, I really like the sound.
128x128rvpiano
Does that hum get louder for a period of time and then bursts away ?
I had this kind of noise when using an MC cartridge, as if a charge is building up and then bursts loudly away, in other words a heavy static problem. But you are not using an MC so maybe a different situation but it may very well be simply static so you could try to drain static more effectively. I´ve never had this phenomenon with MM cartridges.

I don't think you have the "same" problem. Check leads coming off your cartridge, make sure they are secure.

Check and see if you have this motor, if not, order and install.


        http://www.rega.co.uk/24v-motor-upgrade-kit.html


You have a good combination, I had the same combination; if the hum is worse than you described before, you have a new and different problem.



Thanks all for the responses.
I mostly fixed the fluttering problem to bare audibility by switching some electrical cables from the wall to a power conditioner.

orpheus 10,

The motor sounds like a solution, but I don’t think I’m handy enough to install it.
BTW, I also have the Rega TT PSU, if that has any bearing.

I said if you don't have the motor, you might already have it.  The PSU and the motor solve some of the same problems, both might be overkill; you're probably good like you are.

I'm glad you solved your problem; happy listening.
Anytime I've used conditioners, the sound was ruined.   Listen with and then without the condition and evaluate.  (forget the hum for now)