CPU causing static interference with onboard audio?

jc419

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May 13, 2014
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About a month ago I built my own rig with a Gigabyte Z97X Gaming 3 motherboard and an i5-4670K. Since then I have noticed a contact static noise along with crackles and pops. I have narrowed down that the problem to be the cpu. When it is under load, the static gets louder.

Is there any solution to fix this or do I have a faulty MB or CPU?
 
A little research has provided a few possible solutions, this is what has worked for others

1. Check all PC connections.
2. Re-route speaker wires with as much separation from/perpendicular to other cables/wires.
3. Keep speakers as far away from other components as possible
4. Other equipment in your home could also generate noise in your speakers, so try turning off anything else that's on (TV, radio, microwave, fans, etc.).
5. Right click, RealTek HD Audio Manager from the task bar (by the clock), click Audio Devices, highlight speakers (They should be your default), properties, Levels tab, Mute every item listed except for the top one (RealTek HD Output).
6. Plug speakers into a powerstrip/outlet that is different than the one the computer is plugged into

...I'm finding all kinds of assorted solutions - see if any of the above helps
 
I've done my research as well and tried all those solutions to no avial. The static occurs using speakers and headphones. I have removed my gpu, Wifi, mouse/keyboard receiver. I noticed when something uses more of the cpu, such as explorer.exe, the static occurs more.
 
I'm going to suggest contacting Gigabyte about possible RMA since it seems the sound chip is not isolated as it should be. I would believe it would be a valid reason for RMA for the board. I would not expect that behavior from a CPU that's faulty, other nasties, yes, but not static
One other thing, what make and model is your PSU? It is possible that your PSU is not isolated from the sound and if a PSU of dubious quality, it can send noise signals all over. More likely if PSU is bottom mounted in the case.