A humming turntable is a common problem that can be caused by a number of factors. In some cases, the hum is simply a nuisance, but in other cases, it can be a sign of a more serious problem.
What causes a turntable to hum?
There are a number of factors that can cause a turntable to hum, including:
- Poor grounding. If your turntable is not properly grounded, it can pick up electrical interference from other components in your audio system. This interference can manifest as a low-pitched humming sound.
- A faulty cartridge. A faulty cartridge can also cause a turntable to hum. If the cartridge is not properly aligned or if the stylus is damaged, it can create a humming sound.
- A dirty or damaged record. A dirty or damaged record can also cause a turntable to hum. The dirt or damage can cause the stylus to vibrate, which can create a humming sound.
- A faulty power supply. A faulty power supply can also cause a turntable to hum. If the power supply is not providing a clean signal, it can create a humming sound.
Is a humming turntable normal?
A slight hum is not necessarily a cause for concern. However, if the hum is loud or if it is accompanied by other problems, such as static or distortion, then it is a sign of a problem that needs to be addressed.
How to fix a humming turntable
There are a few things you can do to try to fix a humming turntable:
- Check the grounding. Make sure that your turntable is properly grounded. You can do this by connecting the ground wire from the turntable to the ground terminal on your amplifier or receiver.
- Check the cartridge. If the cartridge is not properly aligned or if the stylus is damaged, it can cause a humming sound. You can have the cartridge aligned by a qualified technician or you can replace the stylus yourself.
- Clean the record. If the record is dirty or damaged, it can cause a humming sound. Clean the record with a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution.
- Check the power supply. If the power supply is faulty, it can cause a humming sound. You can replace the power supply yourself or you can take your turntable to a qualified technician.
Conclusion
A humming turntable can be a nuisance, but it is usually not a sign of a serious problem. By following the tips above, you can usually fix the problem yourself. However, if the problem persists, you may need to take your turntable to a qualified technician for further assistance.
Additional tips
- If you are using a turntable with a built-in preamp, make sure that the preamp is turned on.
- If you are using a turntable with an external preamp, make sure that the preamp is properly connected to your amplifier or receiver.
- Try moving your turntable to a different location. If the hum is coming from the turntable itself, moving it to a different location may help to reduce the hum.
- If you are still having trouble, you may need to take your turntable to a qualified technician for further assistance.
