A speaker is a device that converts electricity into sound. So, if you plug your speaker into a wall outlet or you power it using batteries, the speaker will convert electricity from those sources to sound.
However, speakers also pick up unwanted electrical signals from the environment which are also converted into sound. This is referred to as static in speakers.
Let’s explain further…
So What Is Static In Speakers?
Speaker static is a sound interruption that occurs when the sound signals being transmitted into the speakers have too much power or extraneous signals are being picked up by the wiring.
In other words, speaker static occurs when too much electricity is going through your speakers, distorting the desired sound.
It’s what causes the cracking, buzz, or humming sound you hear in speakers sometimes. It can also occur if the wiring picks up extrinsic (unwanted) signals from the surrounding.
Luckily, speaker static is not permanent, and you can easily get rid of it.
Stopping speaker static in your speaker requires that you find and eliminate the source of the extra power going through your speakers.
Bear in mind that several issues may contribute to static. Let’s explore them.
Causes of Static in Speakers
Static in speakers when a speaker picks up too much electric current than it can handle or unwanted electrical signals. Several factors can contribute to that:
1. Interference
Speakers use electromagnets to create sound from the electrical signal going through them.
That being the case, they are capable of picking up signals from other devices around the house and transmitting them as sound output.
That automatically results in a static. Several devices create electromagnetic radiation that can, in turn, be picked up by speakers or speaker wires and be transmitted as sound.
Phones, Wi-Fi routers, microwaves, baby monitors, televisions, radios and other electronic devices transmit electromagnetic radiation to the atmosphere and result in static in your speakers.
Keep in mind that the interference intensity may vary from one device to another.
So, how can you get rid of interference?
To get rid of static caused by interference, you have to ensure that the electronic signals transmitted by these devices do not get picked up by the speakers.
You can do this by moving the speaker away from the source of the interference or by using shielded speakers and shielded cables.
Shielded speakers and cables help you get rid of the static quickly, as they do not pick up any unwanted signals from the surroundings.
They are similar to those used in computers and have a better design than regular home audio speakers and regular speaker wires.
2. Damaged Speakers
A speaker amplifies sound by the use of a cone, a flexible material (made of rubber, paper or plastic) attached at the base, to help pump sound waves towards your ears.
Firstly, you can check the cables on the back of the speaker and ensure that they are still correctly in place and that they haven’t been bent or partially pulled out at all.
If you don’t see any signs of frayed cord or a potentially bad bend then put on a song and just move the cord around to see if it has any effects on the sound, if the static continues then this may not be the source of the problem.
In the event it makes the static better or worse as you move the cable then it is making a bad connection and you will either have to brave your fear of fixing stuff and possibly just solder the wire back onto the board or alternatively call “the guy” to come and take a look if you don’t trust yourself.
Another potential problem is a damaged speaker cone. If the cone is loose or torn, it won’t vibrate correctly and any signal that comes through the speaker will cause vibration through the damaged surface, resulting in a static.
In other words, the torn surface of the speaker causes an extra vibration besides the one caused by the sound signal, causing extra noise.
That affects the smooth flow of the sound signal and results in static in speakers. Remember also that any foreign object touching your speaker can result in sound distortion, due to the extra vibrations.
How Do You Know If The Speakers Are Damaged And What Do You Do?
If the speakers are new, it’s most likely that the static is resulting from something else other than damage.
However, you can identify the torn surface by gently placing your hand above the cone of your speakers.
You will be doing this to feel if there are any strange vibrations that you can detect, if you are unsure then alternatively you can always just open up the speaker and look for yourself.
While doing this, you will want to regulate the volume and avoid applying too much pressure to prevent further damage.
In case the speaker’s case is loose, you can use glue to fasten it and prevent extra vibrations.
However, you need to use the proper glue to avoid damaging the speaker. Keep in mind that if the speaker is torn, your best bet would be to replace the entire cone altogether.
As we’ve already established, materials touching your speakers may also cause extra vibrations, resulting in static.
As such, you need to move your speakers away from anything that may disrupt the smooth flow of sound signals.
3. Ground Loops (Earth Loops)
Electricity always wants to go to ground, and if it does not have a clear path to the ground, then that may cause shorts and static in speakers.
Firstly, please note that the ground is very important for safety reasons.
Ground loops occur when multiple devices are connected through a single ground. The problem can be worse when the devices are linked to different AC outlets (wall outlets). Before we go into the solution, let’s first look at the basics.
What Are Ground Loops?
Simply put, a ground loop occurs when two or more electronic devices are plugged into different power outlets then connected to each other using a cable with a ground.
That creates two different pathways to the ground (a loop), and the current may then flow in undesired ways. That will cause an audio hum, and it might damage your devices.
For example, if you have a powered speaker and amplifier plugged in different grounded outlets, you are most likely going to experience speaker static.
How To Know If Your Speaker Is Affected By Ground Loops
Unlike the static caused by interference in your speakers, ground loops cause a consistent buzz or hum.
As such, if you notice that the buzzing sound is continuous and consistent, then is probably caused by a ground loop.
How To Solve Ground Loop Issues
To eliminate a ground loop issue, you need to get rid of the ground connection on one of the devices.
This way, only one ground connection is left. You can easily do that by plugging all your electrical equipment into the same grounded circuit.
Other simple solutions involve cutting off the ground pin on one of the devices.
Please note that this is not recommended because you may want to use that device by itself and forget that it doesn’t have a ground pin. Other than that, you can buy an isolation transformer.
4. Excess power
Every speaker is capable of handling a certain amount of audio signals. When a speaker receives too much electrical power than it can handle, it will try work to the maximum and the resulting sound be flattened at the top.
That will distort the sound output. The problem is most noticeable when the volume is turned up.
If you notice this type of problem, you will need to turn down your speakers until the distortion goes away. If that doesn’t solve the static issue, you will need to check your amplifier and try to turn down the ‘volume’ (gain) of the amp too.
If the distortion only goes away when the volume is turned all the way down then this likely means that your amplifier produces too much power for your speakers to manage.
It may also mean that your amp and speakers have different impedance ratings. In either case, you will need to get a better match.
Why Do Computer Speakers Have Static?
It’s irritating to have static coming through your computer speakers, and it’s much more annoying trying to figure out what’s producing the static. It could be due to a variety of factors, including magnetic interference or cables that aren’t fully plugged in.
The first thing you should do is double-check that everything is correctly connected. If the typical 1/8″ audio jack cables are not fully plugged in, they can generate static interference.
Check the volume controls on your speakers to make sure they aren’t turned all the way up. Go to the Windows Control Panel and click on Sound in Vista or Volume in XP to access the volume. You can also double-click your taskbar’s speaker icon. On most systems, the volume settings should be set about halfway. Because the sound coming out of your computer is excessively loud, you may get static if you are overdriving the output to your speakers.
If all else fails, you should try reinstalling or updating your sound card’s drivers.
How to Stop Static in One Speaker?
If you have static in just one speaker that may mean that the speaker is not properly connected. Check the cables and speaker connectors.
This is common with car speakers because of the constant movement. In addition, you may be experiencing interference, so switch off any close by electronic devices and electrical cables.
Sometimes the source or even the cable may be the issue. Switch to a different source and if that does not work, try a different cable.
Why Is My Home Theater Speakers Producing Static Noise?
There are a few things that can go wrong with home theater speakers. One common issue is that the speaker drivers may not be properly installed. Another common problem is that the speaker wires may be too thin or thick.
There may be something obstructing the sound output from your home theater system. This could be something like a person or pet sleeping in the room next to your TV. If this is the case, you’ll need to take steps to get rid of the obstruction and improve the sound quality of your home theater system.
If you’re experiencing static noise from your home theater speakers, one of these problems is likely at fault.
How to Get Rid Of Static in Speakers PC/ Windows
If you’re experiencing static on your PC speakers, it might be because of outdated or corrupt sound drivers.
Update your sound drivers and see if that solves the issue. Try other speakers, change the CPU fan or power supply, disable the sound effects, change the audio format, and run the Audio Troubleshooter.
How to Get Rid of Static Noise in Car Speakers
Static in car speakers is normally transmitted via the speaker cables in the car. To get rid of the static noise, turn off the audio system and detach the amplifier from the speaker cables to see whether everything is in order with the wiring.
Restart your vehicle, and if the noise persists, it might have been transmitted via the speaker wiring.
Is Static Bad For Speakers?
If static noise is left for a long time, it might cause long-term harm. Your speakers should be OK as long as it doesn’t often happen and only lasts a brief period. You won’t have any problems if your speakers aren’t too loud.
How to Fix Speaker Making Static Noise in an iPhone
Most iPhone speakers are susceptible to damage from static. A damaged speaker can prevent you from enjoying your music, movies, and other audio content. It’s essential to be aware of this potential issue and take steps to protect your iPhone speaker from static damage.
If you are experiencing speakers making static noises in your iPhone, the best solution is to go to a repair shop. Unfortunately, this is not an option for most people.
The best way to fix the speaker making static noises in your iPhone is to replace the entire speaker system. This is not something that can be done easily at home. You will need to bring the phone to the shop and repair it.
Conclusion
Static in speakers can be quite annoying and hard to solve if you don’t know what is causing the problem.
That means that the first step towards solving and stopping a static hum or buzzing issue in your sound system is to identify the root of the problem. Sometimes the simplest solutions work best.