Last updated on December 29th, 2022 at 09:29 pm
When you plug in your subwoofer and turn it on, you expect to feel the thumping bass shaking your room. But sometimes, you get something else entirely: a loud, annoying buzz or hum.
There are a few possible causes of this problem, but thankfully, there are also some easy solutions. In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes of subwoofer noise and how to fix them.
Why does your subwoofer make a loud noise when turned on or plugged in?
Here are the possible causes for which the subwoofer makes a loud noise when turned on.
An electrical interference
In most cases, the loud noise is simply the result of electrical interference. This can happen if your subwoofer is near other electronic devices, like a computer or television.
The electrical current from these devices can cause a build-up of static electricity in your subwoofer. When you turn on the subwoofer, this static discharge can cause a loud popping noise.
Solutions
The solution to this problem is simple just move your subwoofer away from other electronic devices. If you can’t do that, try plugging the subwoofer into a different outlet.
Problem with power supply
Another potential cause of the problem is an issue with the power supply. If your subwoofer is plugged into an outlet that isn’t getting enough power, it can cause the subwoofer to make a loud popping noise when you turn it on.
Solutions
The solution is to plug the subwoofer into a different outlet, preferably one that is on a different circuit. You can also try using a power strip with built-in surge protection.
Bad connection
A bad connection can also cause your subwoofer to make a loud noise when turned on. This can happen if the speaker wire is loose or damaged.
Solutions
The solution is to check the speaker wire and make sure it’s properly connected. If the wire is damaged, you’ll need to replace it.
Also. know about the RCA cable for the subwoofer.
Grounding loop problem
Another possible cause of the problem is a grounding loop. This can happen if the subwoofer is plugged into an outlet that isn’t properly grounded.
The grounding loop is created when the subwoofer is plugged into an outlet that doesn’t have proper ground. This can happen if the outlet is old or if it’s been damaged.
When this happens, the current from the subwoofer can flow through the ground wire and back into the subwoofer. This can cause a loud popping noise.
Solutions
The solution is to have an electrician check the grounding of the outlet. If the outlet is not properly grounded, they’ll be able to install a new grounding wire.
Loose connection
Another common cause of a loud noise from a subwoofer is a loose connection. This can happen if the subwoofer isn’t properly plugged into the outlet or if the wires are loose.
If you have a wireless subwoofer, make sure the batteries are properly installed.
Solutions
If your subwoofer is making a loud noise, try moving it to a different location, and if that doesn’t work, unplug the subwoofer and check the wires for loose connections.
If everything looks tight, plug the subwoofer back in and turn it on and if the noise is still there, you may need to get a new subwoofer.
The crossover set too high
A possible cause of the noise might be that the crossover is set too high.
The crossover is an electronic filter that allows low-frequency sounds to go to the subwoofer and high-frequency sounds to go to the main speakers. If the crossover is set too high, then only low-frequency sounds will go to the subwoofer, and this can cause a loud, boomy sound.
Learn more about the best subwoofer Hz.
Solutions
To fix this, you’ll need to adjust the crossover frequency. This can usually be done by turning a knob on the back of the subwoofer.
Poor-quality speaker terminals
If the speaker terminals on your subwoofer are of poor quality, it can cause a loud noise. This is because the connection between the subwoofer and the amplifier is not good.
Solutions
The solution is to get a new subwoofer with better speaker terminals. Alternatively, you can use banana plugs to improve the connection between the subwoofer and the amplifier.
Clipping amplifier
Another cause of a loud noise from a subwoofer is a clipping amplifier. This can happen if the volume on the receiver is set too high.
When the volume is turned up too high, the amplifier will start to clip. This means that the signal is too strong for the amplifier to handle. The result is a distorted sound that can be very loud.
Solutions
The solution is to turn down the volume on the receiver. If that doesn’t work, you may need to get a new amplifier.
Over-powered subwoofer
An overpowered subwoofer is one that’s receiving too much power. The result is almost always distortion, and sometimes you’ll hear a loud pop or bang when you turn it on.
Solutions
The solution is to reduce the power going to the subwoofer. You can do this by turning down the volume on your receiver or amplifier, or by using a lower crossover setting.
The subwoofer placed too close to a wall
If your subwoofer is placed too close to a wall, the bass can bounce off the wall and create a distorted and loud sound.
The bass frequencies are non-directional, meaning that they spread out in a wide arc.
When these frequencies hit a hard surface like a wall, they bounce back and can cause the sound to become distorted.
Solutions
To fix this, simply move your subwoofer away from the wall. If you can’t move it, try using acoustic treatments to absorb the sound.
Improperly installed subwoofer
When a subwoofer is improperly installed, it can create a rattling noise that will be amplified when the volume is increased.
There are many things that can contribute to a subwoofer being improperly installed. The most common cause is that the subwoofer is not mounted securely.
If the subwoofer is not mounted properly, it can vibrate and create a rattling noise.
Another cause of an improperly installed subwoofer is that the subwoofer is not properly wired. If the wires are loose or not connected properly, they can create a rattling noise.
The final cause of an improperly installed subwoofer is that the subwoofer is not properly sealed. If the subwoofer is not sealed properly, air can leak out and create a rattling noise.
Solutions
The best way to solve the problem of an improperly installed subwoofer is to have a professional installation. A professional installer will know how to properly mount the subwoofer and wire it correctly. They will also be able to properly seal the subwoofer so that air does not leak out.
Poor quality subwoofer
If your subwoofer is made poorly, it can cause all sorts of problems. Poorly made subwoofers can have loose connections, faulty amplifiers, and be made of inferior materials.
Solutions
The solution is to buy a better quality subwoofer. Make sure to do your research and read reviews before you buy.
Damaged or dirty amplifier output jack
If your amplifier’s output jack is damaged or unclean, it might create a variety of issues. A damaged output jack can cause a loud noise when you turn on the subwoofer.
Solutions
The solution is to have the amplifier checked by a professional. They’ll be able to determine if the output jack is the problem and if so, they’ll be able to repair or replace it.
Faulty amplifier
A faulty amplifier can also cause your subwoofer to make a loud noise when turned on. This is because the amplifier amplifies any sound that it receives. If there’s a problem with the amplifier, it can cause the subwoofer to make a loud popping noise.
Solutions
The solution is to have the amplifier checked by a professional. They’ll be able to determine if the amplifier is the problem and if so, they’ll be able to repair or replace it.
Defective subwoofer
Finally, a defective subwoofer can also be the cause of loud noise. If the subwoofer is damaged, it can produce a loud, distorted sound.
Solutions
If you think your subwoofer is defective, the best thing to do is to take it to a professional for repairs. If it can be fixed properly, you must get a new subwoofer.
Also, know why your subwoofer making noise without input.
What to do if Subwoofer makes a loud noise when turned on or plugged in?
If your subwoofer is making a loud noise when you turn it on or plug it in, there are a few things that you can do to fix the issue.
Here is the step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Check all the connections and make sure they are tight and secure.
Step 2: Inspect the cables for any damage. If you find any, replace them.
Step 3: Move the subwoofer away from the wall and other electronic devices. Then, check if the problem is solved.
Step 4: Make sure the subwoofer is grounded properly. If not, do grounding correctly.
Step 5: Change the power outlet or move the subwoofer to another room and check if the humming noise is gone.
Step 6: Turn the subwoofer’s amplifier down. Check if the amp is faulty. Repair or get a new one if it’s defective.
Step 7: Set the subwoofer’s crossover to a lower frequency and check if it works.
Step 8: You should also check to see if the subwoofer is properly sealed. If it is not, air can leak out and create a rattling noise. If you cannot fix the issue yourself, you should take the subwoofer to a professional for repairs.
Step 9: Next, you should check to see if the subwoofer is properly installed. If it is not, then you should have a professional installer take a look at it.
Step 10: Get a bigger power supply for the subwoofer if it’s not adequate enough.
Step 11: Replace the subwoofer if none of the above can solve the issue.
Also, check out my other article on subwoofers making rumbling, rattling, and humming/buzzing noises.
Conclusion
A subwoofer that makes noise when turned on or plugged in can be very annoying. Some possible causes are poor connection, grounding loop, electric interference, subwoofer placed too close to a wall, overpowered subwoofer, insufficient power supply, faulty amplifier, or defective subwoofer.
But, don’t worry, you can fix the issue. If you follow the above steps, you’ll be able to solve the problem in no time.
In most cases, the problem can be easily fixed by fixing the ground issue, moving the subwoofer to a different location, checking the connections, or getting a new amplifier. But, if the problem persists, you should replace the subwoofer.
I am Pallab Kishore, owner of Sound Gears Realm. I like to try different sound gears and home theatre systems. I like to share with you my experience with these devices, especially subwoofers so that you can get help to solve any problem.