Odd Speaker Buzzing Issue

[njkasaba]

Hi guys,

I've read a bunch threads on speaker buzz related to EMI, etc etc.I can't find a problem like mine.

Pre-cursor: My z-2300 system worked great 6months ago. Two things have changed since then. 1) Moved to a new construction house and 2) Upgraded my computer case.

Anyway, here's what's tricky. If I have no other cables plugged into my PC (inc. power) and plug in the speaker, buzz. If I plug in the ethernet cable, more buzz. If I plug in the power cable, even more buzz (and it doesn't matter if the power cable is coming off my UPS or wall outlet). Even if nothing is plugged into the computer and I touch the edge of a USB port, buzz. DVI out, buzz. And as more stuff gets plugged in (please remember power isn't necessary more buzz. If I plug the cable into my phone, silence. And music sounds great coming out of them.

I think the fact that nothing needs to be plugged into the PC aside from teh speakers rules out a grounding issue with the house (esp since I have 2 other 5.1 setups and Sonos everywhere with no issue), but I'm stuck where to go from here. Seems isolated to the computer case....how to troubleshoot.

TIA. Nick K.

 

[CountMike]

Such case buzzing is most of the time caused by bad ground on input cable/connector to speaker(s). Could be a problem with that cable or it's connector loosing ground/shield connection.

 

[njkasaba]

Such case buzzing is most of the time caused by bad ground on input cable/connector to speaker(s). Could be a problem with that cable or it's connector loosing ground/shield connection.

Hi Mike
Any recommendations on how to troubleshoot??

 

[CountMike]

Need to check continuity of the shield on the cable from input jack to speaker. That probably means opening the speaker side. On the jack side, ground/ shield is first contact next to handle.

 

[njkasaba]

Need to check continuity of the shield on the cable from input jack to speaker. That probably means opening the speaker side. On the jack side, ground/ shield is first contact next to handle.

Just finished doing this. Pulled apart the remote that runs between the sub (where the speakers connect) and input jack. Spliced into the wires and checked continuity on both L & R audio an the ground - all was well. Also just brought up an older desktop and a laptop into the same room and no buzz on either of those....don't understand what could be the issue with the case though if I get buzz with absolutely NO cables plugged into it.

 

[CountMike]

That tkaes care of easier side. Are you plupging speakers in the front of the case or behind ?