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My 1st tube amp: transformer buzz audible 15 feet?

I recently purchased my first tube integrated amplifier from a local shop. I continue to have problems with a buzz coming from the transformer, which I can easily hear while 15 feet away. Is this normal? Do I have a defective unit?

So far, the transformer cover has been tighten by the shop, and I plugged it into a variac to bring the voltage down from the 120-122 volts coming from my outlets.

After two weeks, I find the buzz unacceptable. Any ideas?
jackpage
elizabeth
6,726 posts
 
Return it. period. The thing is making noise that is completely unacceptable to you.
It IS defective.
You can only return it for a short while when new. Do NOT allow the shop to screw you around.
If they persist in claiming they can fix that one, tell them to get you a new one, and then they can fiddle with that one all they like.
And yes you should give them a chance on accepting a new one. (perhaps even the demo model? if it is quiet, yes)
roscoeiii's avatar
roscoeiii
1,155 posts
 
It is not necessarily the amp that is defective.

Does it make this hum regardless of where it is plugged in or what it is plugged into?

In my case, it was my apartment's cruddy power. The amp was a Nelson Pass designed and built FirstWatt F1. One of the best amps I have ever owned and lived with (the entire FirstWatt line is fabulous). The crappy receiver I had before the F1 didn't make this noise. Did I want the receiver back in my system? Heck no. I found the cause of the problem and fixed it. Thank you Humbuster and long live the F1.

I suggest systematically explore the issue until you determine exactly what the culprit is.

Regardless, I wish you a hum free existence.
jackpage OP
1 posts
 
I tried two other wall outlets and there was no change, so I don't think it is the polarity.

Previously I did have the identical model demo unit at home, and I could hear it but only up to about 4 feet. Mine is significantly louder. My desk is is centered behind the sweet spot seating, and I can hear it from the desk, with my ears 17 feet (I measured) from the amplifier.
audiofankj
373 posts
 
This is NOT normal. Return it and get a full refund.

This is not acceptable and is ridiculous for them to tell you anything otherwise.

There are plenty of other integrated tube amps that will NOT give any transformer hum.
jallen
502 posts
 
Return it NOW. The other thing to check is a loose tube socket. Touch the tubes with a wooden stick and see if one of them is resonating. If so, a socket may be loose. If so, then you return it. Either way, return it. The transformer is just a buzzer, get rid of it. The goal is less noise, not more. If they don't have better quality control, change brands. Jallen
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