Turntable Hum and Buzzing: How to Fix
A constant hum or buzz from a record player is one of the most common setup problems — and one of the most solvable. In almost every case, the cause is one of three things: a grounding issue, a double-preamp error, or electrical interference from nearby electronics. This guide helps you identify which one and fix it.
Step 1 — Diagnose the Type of Hum
Before fixing, identify the type of noise. The character of the hum tells you where to look:
| Sound | Likely Cause |
|---|---|
| Low 60Hz hum (deep, constant drone) | Grounding issue or missing ground wire |
| Loud hum that increases with volume | Double preamp — two preamps in the signal chain |
| High-pitched buzz or whine | Electrical interference from nearby device |
| Hum only when stylus is on the record | Cartridge wiring or stylus issue |
| Hum through one channel only | Faulty RCA cable or loose connection |
Fix #1 — Double Preamp (Most Common Cause of Loud Hum)
This is the most frequent cause of loud hum in new setups. It happens when two phono preamps are active in the signal chain at the same time — one in the turntable and one in the receiver or speakers.
How to identify it: The hum is very loud — louder than a typical grounding hum — and increases with volume. It often sounds distorted as well.
How to fix it:
Check the back of your turntable for a PHONO/LINE switch. If your turntable has a built-in preamp (like all Arkrocket models), this switch must be set to LINE when connecting to powered speakers or a LINE input on a receiver. Set it to PHONO only when connecting to a dedicated PHONO input on a vintage receiver that has its own phono stage.
The rule: only one preamp should be active at any time.
Fix #2 — Grounding Issue
Many turntables have a ground wire — a thin bare wire that connects the turntable chassis to the receiver or preamp. When this wire is disconnected or the connection is poor, you get a 60Hz hum.
How to identify it: A steady, low-frequency drone that doesn’t change with volume on its own but may get louder when the stylus touches the record.
How to fix it:
Locate the ground wire on your turntable — it’s usually a green or bare wire with a spade connector. Connect it to the GND (ground) terminal on your receiver or phono preamp. If your powered speakers don’t have a ground terminal, try connecting the ground wire to a metal screw on the back of the speaker chassis as an improvised ground.
Note: Not all turntables have a separate ground wire. Arkrocket models have internal grounding — if you’re experiencing hum with an Arkrocket, check the PHONO/LINE switch first (Fix #1).
Fix #3 — Electrical Interference
Electronic devices near the turntable can induce electrical noise into the signal chain. Common culprits include Wi-Fi routers, LED dimmers, fluorescent lights, power strips, and any device with a wireless transmitter.
How to identify it: The buzz changes pitch or character when nearby electronics are turned on or off. Moving the turntable slightly reduces or eliminates the noise.
How to fix it:
Plug the turntable’s power adapter directly into a wall outlet — not a power strip or surge protector. Move the turntable at least 30cm away from routers, dimmer switches, and large screens. If the hum disappears when you move it, the source was nearby interference.
Fix #4 — Faulty or Loose RCA Cable
A hum in one channel only almost always means a loose or damaged RCA cable on that side. Check both ends of the RCA connection — at the turntable and at the amplifier or speakers. Reseat the connectors firmly. If the hum persists, swap the cable with a known-good one.
Watch: Fixing Turntable Hum
Quick Diagnosis Checklist
| Check | Action |
|---|---|
| PHONO/LINE switch position | Set to LINE for powered speakers or LINE input |
| Ground wire connected | Attach to GND terminal on receiver/preamp |
| Plugged into wall outlet directly | Remove power strip — plug directly into wall |
| Distance from router/dimmer | Move turntable at least 30cm from interference sources |
| RCA cables seated firmly | Push in and twist slightly to ensure firm contact |
| Single channel hum | Replace the RCA cable on the humming side |
See also: Why Is My Record Skipping? · How to Set Tracking Force · Vinyl 101 Free Course
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