Loud buzzing connecting computer to stereo
 

I am trying to set up a home theater computer and when I run a cable from the speaker out on the computer to the line in on the receiver, I can hear the audio ok - if I don't mind the loud buzzing noise that accompanies it! Plugging the cable into the projector instead of the stereo sounds fine. Headphones also sound fine. Stereo sounds fine when playing CD, VCR, or radio. Why doesn't my stereo like my computer? It's a LOUD buzzing, not just a minor annoyance. I also tried plugging into the line in on the VCR (which is connected to the stereo) but also got the buzzing. I tried a 40db attenuator, but that did not solve the problem.

Sounds like a ground loop. The quick fix is a ground loop isolator from Radio Shack. The last one I bought even came with an adapter to plug in to the output of the computer.

For better quality look at products from Jensen or Whirlwind.

Sam

I'll give that a try. I had never heard of such a device. Can you give a technical explanation for why it is needed?

Yeah it is just a transformer to break any ground currents between devices. Jost like a DI box. Here is a better expkination than I can give http://www.jensen-transformers.com/an/an004.pdf .

Sam

That did the trick! Thanks much. I can't believe circuits like this aren't built-in.