Ground Loop Issue

Brillo · 3405

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Offline Brillo

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on: February 09, 2018, 02:13:44 PM
I purchased a used Bottlehead DAC with Bottlebat power supply and just installed it in system (Mac Mini>DAC>BeePre>Paramounts).  I'm having a massive ground loop issue whereas previously I had none.  The only change is swapping of DACs.  I haven't found another thread where this issue has been raised, so asking for insights from the forum on ways to combat this.  The issue persists whether using battery power or the wall wart.  It's playing music, but overwhelmed by the volume of buzz.  No buzz when I disconnect the RCAs.  Thoughts? 

Chris

Chris


Offline Paul Birkeland

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Reply #1 on: February 09, 2018, 05:30:55 PM
If the DAC is plugged in and powered up but not connected to your computer, is the noise still there?


Paul "PB" Birkeland

Bottlehead Grunt & The Repro Man


Offline Brillo

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Reply #2 on: February 10, 2018, 07:04:12 AM
Nope.  It stops as soon as I disconnect the USD cable. I have a toslink cable, but the male end doesn't seat fully into the DAC, so need to find another.  Is there a simple fix for the USB?  It's working fine otherwise - the Mac recognizes the DAC and reads the bit rate, no problem.
   

Chris


Offline Paul Birkeland

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Reply #3 on: February 10, 2018, 08:26:13 AM
I would recommend trying a different computer.  I have never experienced what you're describing, so I wouldn't know where to start!  (The toslink cable is likely going to be the way to go though)

Paul "PB" Birkeland

Bottlehead Grunt & The Repro Man