Have you ever noticed that your electric guitar starts to hum when you turn the volume down? This is a common problem, and it can be caused by a number of things. In this article, we will discuss the causes of guitar hum, and how to fix it.
What Causes Guitar Hum?
There are a few different things that can cause guitar hum. One common cause is electromagnetic interference (EMI). EMI is caused by electrical devices that emit a magnetic field. When your guitar is plugged into an amp, it is susceptible to EMI from other electrical devices in the vicinity.
Another common cause of guitar hum is a ground loop. A ground loop occurs when there are two or more paths for electrical current to flow to ground. This can create a loop of current that can cause hum.
Finally, guitar hum can also be caused by a bad pickup or wiring. If your pickup is not properly grounded, or if the wiring is damaged, it can cause hum.
How to Fix Guitar Hum
There are a few different ways to fix guitar hum. The best way to fix it will depend on the cause of the hum.
If the hum is caused by EMI
One way to reduce EMI is to use a noise gate. A noise gate is a device that cuts off the signal when the level of the signal falls below a certain threshold. This can help to reduce the hum that is caused by EMI.
Another way to reduce EMI is to use a hum-cancelling pickup. Hum-cancelling pickups have two coils that are wired out of phase. This cancels out the hum that is caused by EMI.
If the hum is caused by a ground loop
One way to fix a ground loop is to break the ground loop. This can be done by unplugging one of the devices that is causing the ground loop. Alternatively, you can use a ground loop isolator. A ground loop isolator is a device that breaks the ground loop without affecting the signal.
If the hum is caused by a bad pickup or wiring
If the hum is caused by a bad pickup or wiring, you will need to replace the pickup or repair the wiring. This is a job that is best left to a qualified luthier.
Guitar hum is a common problem, but it can be fixed. If you are experiencing guitar hum, there are a few things that you can do to fix it. By following the tips in this article, you should be able to get rid of the hum and enjoy your guitar without any distractions.
Additional Tips
Here are a few additional tips for fixing guitar hum:
- If you are using a noise gate, be sure to set the threshold so that it only cuts off the hum. You don’t want to cut off the signal from your guitar.
- If you are using a hum-cancelling pickup, be sure to install it correctly. The two coils need to be wired out of phase in order to cancel out the hum.
- If you are troubleshooting a ground loop, be sure to check all of the connections. A loose connection can cause a ground loop.
- If you are replacing a pickup or repairing the wiring, be sure to use high-quality parts. This will help to ensure that the hum is not caused by a faulty pickup or wiring.
