Electric hum from speakers (1 Viewer)

[Aaron Copeland]

As the subject says, I'm getting an electric hum from my speakers from one of the inputs on my receiver. It happens when I switch to the input that has my Gamecube connected. For those that do not know, the Gamecube does not have any digital output for audio, only the standard red/white stereo cables.

This also poses another problem since I'm quite limited on cables to use. I just can't go out and buy new cables with lots of shielding since the GC uses a proprietary plug on the end that connects to the system.

The hum is there whether the GC is on or not, but it goes away when I unplug the cable. This problem does not occur when source component is connected with optical cables (as are all my other components).

So is this indeed a shielding issue? Is there anyway to get rid of it assuming I can't find anyone that produces GC cables with good shielding.?

Thanks!

 

[Jason Co]

Aaron,
I was getting a hum on my speakers from my new 2 ch amp. Turned out I was getting a ground loop from my cable outlet. I bought these from Rat Shack and it solved the problem.
Good Luck,
Jason

 

[Aaron Copeland]

Thanks for the information, Jason. I bet that will work. I'm going to see if I can pick one up after work tonight.

 

[Jesse Blacklow]

There are companies that make AV wires for game systems. i have a Component set from Gameshark/Interact that has the PS2 AV connection. These are thick, shielded cables, on par with Acoustic Research Pro series. Not surprising, since AR and Gameshark are owned by the same company (Recoton). Most B&M stores will have aftermarket A/V cables. Try www.interact-acc.com for more info. There may be other companies that offer better solutions, but these were no more expensive then the Sony el cheapo products.

 

[Aaron Copeland]

Well, the the ground loop isolator from Radio Shack worked perfectly. The hum is totally gone. Thanks!

 

[Jason Co]

Glad it worked for you Aaron.
Jason