Problem with grounding when using new sound card and speakers?
Problem with grounding when using new sound card and speakers?
Electronics can be strange. I was hoping you could find something that needed to be connected to the same outlet as the sub to check if the ground loop behaved the same as with the PC.
That's good news for what you were testing. The mp3 player is essentially isolated, not linked to your wall outlet through ground loops.
I would remove the motherboard from the case just to be certain it isn't the main problem. But that's me.
I own an old amp and preamp from the same manufacturer, around 45 years old.
The amp was designed to connect its A/C to the rear of the preamp since the amp doesn’t have a power switch.
If I did that, the amp’s case would become live, and you could feel a jolt of electricity if you touched the top of it.
I’ve learned that’s a big no-no, and both still work perfectly today except for this unusual grounding issue through the back of the preamp.
If both are plugged into the wall, the amp’s case is fine.
My worry is that you’ve had to replace the motherboard and power supply, yet the ground loop zap persists.
So it seems the sub is reacting negatively to the PC’s electrical setup. It probably means something isn’t happy, and I’m leaning toward the case being the culprit.
If you decide to try the ground isolator you mentioned or switch cables, go for it. If that fails, consider going back to the case.
I've placed an order for a new cable - this time a miniplug to 1/4" (the sub includes both RCA and 1/4" inputs). I also ordered a ground loop isolator and some motherboard standoffs. I plan to take the system down again once everything arrives and will let you know. Thanks for your assistance. In the meantime, if you have any other suggestions, feel free to share.