Electrician's advice wanted: safely lifting ground


Hi all,

I've got a ground loop in my system between the preamp and multiple amps. The cheater plug experiment on the amp power cords not only solves the hum but also lowers the noise floor a bit more. So I would like to do this correctly in a safer, more permanent way.

Bringing all of the power cords in the system to one socket helped also but isn't as quiet as with the grounds lifted.

Can I change the circuit breaker to a GFIC and then tie ground to neutral at the wall socket so that there are no adapters involved? If this isn't the way to go please advise on what is. Even if I don't do this myself I'd like to know so that I can talk with an electrician.

Thanks
dan_ed

Showing 1 response by mitch2

Wow, what a great thread, I really like (and agree with) Elizabeth's rules for living, and who'd believe someone would actually quote Captain Beefheart. Way to go, Pehare. This thread has really brought out the "inner poet" in you two.

Regarding ground loops, consider trying Jensen input transformers just ahead of your amps. Totally solved my problem going from a single-ended preamp to my balanced only amps. Went from all sorts of noise (almost sold the Clayton's) to dead-nuts quiet. Go to their website and give them a call - very helpful folks and the stuff is not that expensive. BTW, since you have "multiple amps" be aware that they sell single line models of the transformers that may be logistically easier for you than the twin versions shown on the website. They will make them as you need, rca-rca, xlr-xlr, rca to xlr, and xlr to rca.