Recording tips from engineers, producers and other
industry insiders.
Eliminate Hum
and Buzz Now!
This is one of the most evasive and frustrating
phenomena
ever to invade our workstations. Let's get rid of it!
Try some of these antidotes:
- Use only one A/C "breaker" line for your workspace no
shared appliances (ie: refrigerator, washer/dryer, dishwasher).
- Do not "daisy-chain" power strips, one after another.
Use only one power strip per A/C wall outlet.
- Positively NO flourescent lights in your workspace.
- Separate A/C chords at least 8 inches from audio
chords. At the very least, run them at (criss-cross) 90-degree angles.
- Move power amps as far away as possible; into the
next room if you can.
- Be prepared to use "ground lifters" (3-into-2 A/C
adapters). If you have buzz when you power-up and plug-in any piece of
gear, then lift the ground on that one!
- Lastly, unplug everything except your monitor system.
Plug in each piece of equipment one-by-one, while listening carefully
for hum/buzz/noise. If you hear it, then consider moving that piece of
gear away from the others.
Happy hunting . . .
by:
Brian Levi
Clear Lake Audio
Los Angeles, CA
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