Laptop Firewire = noisy audio out

fultro wrote on 7/25/2008, 7:17 PM

Setting up a laptop with a Focusrite Saffire firewire box.
--I get noise that sounds like a low gurgling with a high whine on top.
--This happens with the onboard firewire connector.
--This also happens with the Cardbus Firewire adapter.
--This happens even when the Focusrite is not powered up.
--Happens with 6 pin or 4 pin
--Some cables are less noisy than others.
--Moving the cable back and forth in the jack I can find a low noise 'sweet spot" . This in any of the outputs with any cable.

--Given all of this it does not seem like a bad jack or cable issue.
--If the Focusrite is not even turned on it seems as tho it can't be that.
--Could it be a driver issue ?

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated - - -

Comments

pwppch wrote on 7/26/2008, 9:14 PM

I would try it with a different fire wire audio device. That is, make sure it is not the Focusrite.

Peter

fultro wrote on 7/28/2008, 9:32 PM

it seems that it is a problem with my Yamaha HS-50M pwrd mons.

--a different audio device with a USB out produces the same prob with those spkrs.

-and using cheap PC desktop spkrs with the Focusrite does not produce the prob.

-very strange - lifted the ground on the Yamaha's too

jbolley wrote on 7/31/2008, 12:06 PM

try plugging in power for all devices (pc, focusrite, speakers) into the same wall jack. This should ensure all audio is on the same circuit.
Maybe will help your situation?
Jesse

richard-courtney wrote on 7/31/2008, 1:25 PM

Do you live near a TV or FM radio station?

If you move all your gear to a friends house miles away,
does the problem follow you?

If the first question is yes and second no, look for "ferrite beads"
at a local electronics store. They may be ordered online at Digikey:

http://rocky.digikey.com/WebLib/Steward/New%20photos/HFA163090-0A2.jpg

http://dkc3.digikey.com/PDF/T081/P1459.pdf