Noise from audio output of computer to mixer

MC208

MC208

New member
I have an HP elitedesk computer. I take the audio output which is mini stereo, and I connect it to my mixer channel input which is two quarter inch inputs. I'm getting noise from the computer itself (mouse movements, and hard drive seeking noises) transmitted to the mixer through the audio cable. I tried a different cable but that didn't fix the issue. I also tried putting both the power plugs from the mixer and the computer into the same outlet.

It doesn't have anything to do with the volume output of the computer. When it's muted, you can hear the same noises. After posing this issue to the AI, it suggested I get a ground loop isolator so I ordered this from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/BESIGN-Ground-Isolator-Stereo-System/dp/B06XQYN77L

Do you think it'll work? For $9, I figured it's worth a shot!

AI:
If the noise is still present when the computer’s output is muted, that means it isn’t coming from the audio signal itself — it’s electrical interference being carried over the ground/shield of the cable. This is classic ground loop / PC noise coupling (things like mouse movement, CPU/disk activity, etc. riding along the ground). In that case, the most effective solution is to break the direct electrical ground path between the PC and the mixer. You do that with an isolation transformer (aka ground loop isolator).
Click to expand...
 
A generally more reliable solution would be an audio interface (AI, ironically). Another possible solution would be a passive stereo direct box with a ground lift. I'd just go for the AI. Ideally, connect via balanced cables and connectors.
 
So common, it is crazy PC manufacturers have never fixed it! I routinely use transformers to fix this kind of thing. Cheap from aliexpress and work well!
 
There are a couple of these where I work. They seem to work okay. There's a stereo version.

[Edit] I have no idea if this will cure your noise problem, but it does have a ground lift and presumably uses a transformer.

www.guitarcenter.com

Rapco Horizon LTIBLOX Laptop Interface | Guitar Center

Shop for the Rapco Horizon LTIBLOX Laptop Interface in and receive free shipping and guaranteed lowest price.
www.guitarcenter.com www.guitarcenter.com
 
Last edited:
What do you mean when you say an audio interface?
Can you give a link to the transformer you're referring to?
 
The device you link to from sweetwater appears to be an input device. I am taking sound from the computer and sending it to the mixer, and the noise from inside the computer is going with it. With regard to transformer, I was referring to @rob aylestone 's comment.
 
An audio interface goes two ways. You will have mic/line inputs and line outputs that should be a much better match for your mixer. Using the headphone outputs will work in a pinch, but often come with various noises (low levels of hiss and digital hash are common). I have one computer with a pair of JBL monitors and if you listen closely, some intermittent digital noise comes through. With my audio interface, you hear nothing.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top