Symptoms
- Faint hissing or white noise present even with no source connected
- Hiss gets louder as volume/gain is increased
- Hiss is present on one speaker more than the other
- Hiss changes when touching or moving the cable
Likely causes
- CommonVolume/gain set higher than needed, amplifying inherent noise floorAll amplifiers have some self-noise that becomes audible as gain increases.
- CommonPoor quality or unshielded audio cable acting as an antenna for interferenceCheap cables can pick up electrical noise from other devices.
- PossibleSource device (like a laptop) actively connected and adding its own noiseSome laptops and interfaces introduce electrical noise into the audio signal.
- PossibleGround loop between the speakers and other connected equipmentDevices on different power circuits can create a small but audible hum/hiss.
- Less commonAging or failing internal amplifier component in the speakerComponent degradation over years can increase self-noise levels.
What to do
- Turn the speaker's gain/volume knob down to a lower setting while compensating with the source device's volume instead.
- Disconnect the source input entirely and see if hiss is still present, confirming it's the speaker's own noise floor versus an input issue.
- Try a different, well-shielded audio cable.
- Plug the speakers and source device into the same outlet or power strip to reduce ground loop noise.
- Test with a different source device to see if hiss level changes.
- If hiss is only noticeable at very close range and not from normal listening distance, this may simply be normal for the speaker model.
Tools and parts
Shielded audio cableSearch: “shielded 3.5mm audio cable”
When to call a pro
If hiss is loud even at low gain settings with no input connected and a good cable, the speaker's internal amplifier may be degrading and could need professional service.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.