Symptom
Possible Problem
Crackling sound
Bad connection.
from speakers.
Volume level in computer operating system is set
too high.
A problem with your audio source device.
Sound is
Volume level set too high.
distorted.
Computer operating system volume level is set
too high.
Sound source is distorted.
Radio
Too close to a radio tower.
interference.
No sound
Bad connection.
from subwoofer.
Sound source has little low-frequency content.
Low hum
The AC in your house is at 60 cycles per second, which is
from subwoofer.
within the audio frequency of the subwoofer.
Loud hum
Bad connection.
from subwoofer.
Bass level set too high.
Volume or bass level on your audio source device is set
too high.
Distorted monitor.
Subwoofer too close to monitor.
Solution
Check all cables. Make sure they are connected to "line-out" or "audio-out"
jack on your sound card or other audio source — NOT "speaker-out."
Check the computer operating system volume level and decrease it if necessary.
Unplug the stereo cable from the audio source. Then plug it into the
headphone jack of an alternate audio source (e.g., Walkman, Discman or
FM radio).
Press the "–" button on the side of the right satellite to decrease the volume.
Adjust the computer operating system volume and balance levels to the
center as a starting point, then adjust the level on the speaker using the
volume control.
WAV files are often of poor quality. So distortion and noise are easily noticed
with high-powered speakers. Try a different sound source such as a music CD.
Move your speakers until the interference goes away.
Check to make sure that all cables are connected properly and are making a
clear connection.
Many .WAV and .MID files often have little low-frequency content and sound
flat when you listen to them on a computer. Try a song with more bass —
something from your CD collection.
Some low hum may be detected when your speaker system is powered on
without an audio source playing, or when the volume is set at an extremely
low level.
Unplug the AC power cord from the surge protector (if used), and plug directly
into an AC wall outlet.
Move your cables. Check to ensure they are making a clear connection.
Press the "–" button marked with the word "bass" on the wireless remote to
decrease the bass.
Disconnect your 3.5mm stereo cable from the audio source. If the loud hum
goes away, lower the volume on the audio source.
Lower the volume or bass level on your computer, portable device, etc.
Because the subwoofer is not magnetically shielded, it can cause distortion if
it's too close to your monitor. Move the subwoofer so it's at least 2 feet from
your monitor.
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