How to Eliminate Unwanted Noise from Your Turntable
Introduction
Enjoying the purity of vinyl is an immersive experience, but unwanted noise can significantly mar the enjoyment of your collection. Whether it's a humming, pulsing, or more complex sound, identifying and solving the issue requires a methodical approach. This guide delves into various steps and considerations to help you achieve a noise-free listening experience.
Identifying the Source
When dealing with unwanted noise from your turntable, the first step is to understand its origin. Common culprits include grounding issues, electronic interference, and power quality. By systematically checking each potential source, you can pinpoint the precise cause of the noise and resolve it accordingly.
Ensuring Proper Grounding
Ensure that your turntable is properly grounded. The AT-PL120 turntable has a ground wire that should be connected to the ground terminal of your amplifier or receiver. Loose or disconnected ground wires can introduce noise into the system. To verify, check the connection and ensure it's secure.
Isolating the Turntable
Move the turntable away from other electronic devices. Speakers, amplifiers, and computers can create interference, leading to unwanted noise. Reorganize your audio setup to maintain a clear electromagnetic environment around your turntable.
Using a Different Outlet
Plug the turntable and the amplifier into different electrical outlets. If they share the same circuit, a ground loop might occur, causing humming noises. Seek outlets on different circuits to avoid this issue. Alternatively, consider using a power conditioner to provide clean power to your equipment.
Inspecting Cables
Inspect the RCA cables connecting the turntable to the amplifier. Ensure they are in good condition and securely connected. If they are damaged, replace them with high-quality shielded cables to minimize interference and noise.
Check Preamp Settings
If your turntable has a built-in preamp, check the settings. Sometimes switching between the built-in preamp and an external one can help reduce noise. This adjustment might be the key to resolving the issue.
Testing with Different Records
Try playing different records to see if the noise persists. Specific records with scratches or issues can amplify noise. Swap in different records to see if the problem is consistent across your collection.
Professional Help
If you've tried these steps and the noise continues, consider consulting a professional audio technician. These experts can diagnose and address more complex issues that may not be immediately apparent. Their expertise can ensure your system operates in optimal conditions.
Additional Considerations
Check the grounding integrity of the preamp. Ensure that all the wires from the pickup, tone arm, and motor to your preamp are shielded and connected to a common ground point. Additionally, look for any microphonic points in your system by thumping or tapping around and listening for changes.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to reduce or eliminate the unwanted noise from your turntable, allowing you to enjoy your vinyl collection without distraction. Regular maintenance and attention to detail can keep your equipment performing at its best.