Discuss What solution do folks use for the dreaded BFD hum? in the Equalization | Calibration forum.
I'm a big believer in standing on the shoulders of giants. In this case that means I would like to ...

**Mitch G** · **09-27-06, 03:51 PM**

I'm a big believer in standing on the shoulders of giants.

In this case that means I would like to know what solution folks use for addressing The Hum.

Right now I'm using a cheater plug, but I would like to solve the problem the right way. I saw the links to Jensen and Ebtech stuff, but Jensen has a bunch of different products, and the Ebtech links are qualified with words like "possible."

So, what are you audio giants using to address The Hum?

Thanks,

Mitch

**lcaillo** · **09-27-06, 06:38 PM**

The right way is to convert the balanced connections on the BFD to unbalanced that are required by most AV systems using a transformer. You can get them at radio shack for about $14. Using the cheater plug is OK for testing and may never cause a problem, but why not do it right?

**09-27-06, 10:01 PM**

this worked great for me, whisper quiet. The cheater plug was definitely louder. It also got a good review at secrets.

http://www.dcispec.com/

**fibreKid** · **09-28-06, 01:08 AM**

I use a cleanbox II.

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/produ...4&src=3SOSWXXA

**azjimmy** · **09-28-06, 01:12 AM**

I use the ART CleanBoxII

http://www.audiomidi.com/CleanBox-II-P4657.aspx

Worked like a charm.

**azjimmy** · **09-28-06, 01:15 AM**

Great minds think alike

**Hakka** · **09-28-06, 01:44 AM**

I've never heard of this problem before, my BFD doesn't hum, then again im in Australia on 240v, not sure if that has anything to do with it or not.

I've had a look at the links posted in this thread, could one of those be used to eliminate the ground loop caused by a laptop on mains power?

Harry.

**brucek** · **09-28-06, 06:40 AM**

Quote:

could one of those be used to eliminate the ground loop caused by a laptop on mains power?

Most likely, if it's in the audio chain.

Quote:

I would like to know what solution folks use for addressing The Hum

In the BFD GUIDE, under the first section "Connecting The BFD", it discusses the solutions to this problem, including several of the products already mentioned. Some use transformers, some differential amps - take your pick... The DC1 that stitz mentioned seems to be a good price and get good reviews. I've never tried it myself.

You want to stay away from inexpensive devices for this application, since their low frequency response are quite poor. The Radio Shack product is particularily bad in this regard.

brucek

**Mitch G** · **09-28-06, 07:41 AM**

Just so people don't think I'm a complete idiot, I did see the suggestions in the BFD guide, but there appear to be a hundred Jensen products and the other products are listed in the guide as "possible solutions."
Hence, I wanted to hear some first hand accounts of what people are using.

Mitch