Subwoofer pop/buzz when connected to just power

[cKGunslinger]

I've got an Infinity 10" subwoofer that I've had for several (5?) years. For the past 3 years, it's been in my apartment, turned down to the lowest levels, like a good neighbor, with no issues (other than it occasionally turns itself off, if the audio isn't loud enough to drive it.)

This week, I moved into a house and once I plugged in my sub, it immediately started with a few 'pop' sounds and a buzz. Nothing constant, just every few seconds - like an open mic. Nothing else connected but power. I tried going ahead and connecting it my to receiver, but no change. It doesn't seem to be even playing any of the LFE audio, just random pops and hisses. I tried a few different outlets and with/without a surge protector.

Some online debug suggested maybe get a ground-loop isolator, but with just power connected, can that be a problem? What about RF noise?

Maybe the sub's electronics are just shot?

 

[gus6464]

ground loop.

 

[WilliamM2]

I ground loop will cause a hum, not popping. And if the only thing plugged in is the power, you won't get a ground loop. I'm guessing a loose internal connection, or amp failure.

 

[cKGunslinger]

I ground loop will cause a hum, not popping. And if the only thing plugged in is the power, you won't get a ground loop. I'm guessing a loose internal connection, or amp failure.

Following this a bit more, it sounds like the sub may be shot.

One site talks about pulling the internal electronics, de-soldering a couple of wires, removing the limiter circuit, then re-soldering back directly to the board.

http://www.fixya.com/support/t6627366-red_light_thumping_sound

I like the idea of a cheap (potential) fix, but that beyond me, I think. The rest of my speakers are Polk, so I may just end up getting something like this. But with the move and the house, that a lower priority and non-essential budget item.

 

[truckerCLOCK]

I ground loop will cause a hum, not popping. And if the only thing plugged in is the power, you won't get a ground loop. I'm guessing a loose internal connection, or amp failure.

^^This. Also gonna say amp failure. What is your price range to repair? Maybe cheaper to buy a new sub.

 

[exar333]

I had this issue and it was from a bad cable (hum) and on another instance (wireless sub cable - pop).

Went back to a new standard cable and it fixed the issue.

 

[truckerCLOCK]

If your willing to spend around $230 you can get one of these BIC America F12 12-Inch Reviews are very good for this sub.