USB powered DACs

[dt97583]

Word of warning, I wouldn't bother getting a USB powered DAC as my experience of them is you'll hear a very annoying computer electrical interference noise coming through your speakers.

This post is just a heads up for any potential buyers. Either get a mains powered DAC or be prepared to troubleshoot this issue. I've got no idea why they're sold as you can clearly hear the noise when music is playing on a medium to low volume.

 

[dt97583]

Yeah agreed, it most probably is a PC issue but the result of the DAC being USB powered means it exhibits the results. My understanding is a mains powered DAC wouldn't exhibit the same results.

As it's such a common issue I feel like whatever combination of plugs / power strips to resolve ground loops should be clearly explained and advised upon in the user manual. As it is it's not fit for purpose.

 

[dt97583]

Usually due to a ground loop or similar

So speakers and amp on one power strip = electrical noise. Moving the PC PSU onto the same power strip = same electrical noise. I'm guessing I'm missing what the correct combination is.

I got some EMI coming through the USB with my mk1 Schiit Modi but it was only noticeable when not playing music. My Modi Multibit, being mains powered is totally silent.

Cheers, yeah it's so frustrating when you can hear it when playing music relatively quietly or when it's classical or something else similar.

 

[dt97583]

I should add that using a laptop (both on battery and mains) did resolve the noise issues, whether this is the case just for me, or more in general I couldn't say.