Ground loop hum from Lina and clock connected to Naim Supernait3 and Hi-capDR

Hi all,
I have eliminated this using a single shared iFi SilentPower GND defender for both DAC and clock using a short Y-shaped IEC adapter into the wall above the Naim gear leads. This works, but I understand the dCS cases aren’t grounded unless there is a ground fault. dCS DAC is connected by Witch Hat Morgana RCA>DIN IC.

I understand the Naim SN3 uses star-grounding and expects an earth ground from the source signal. Please let us know if you have a more elegant solution for this issue. For me, grounding the Phono ground on the SN3 to the female DIN socket had no effect.

Thanks and best wishes,
Eric

Hi Eric,

I’m afraid that is incorrect - all of our products have earthed / grounded chassis.

Please see the photos at Welcome dCS Lina - #19 by Ermos and you’ll see that the Lina units are definitely grounded.

Best Regards

Phil Harris

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Phil,

I meant when using the iFi in the circuit. My understanding is that the iFI lifts the earth ground until it sees a short, then instantly connects earth. Am I incorrect?

If this isn’t a legit remedy, then what is?

Thanks,
Eric

Oh I get what you were meaning there now …

From what I can see the iFi SilentPower Ground Defender doesn’t actively disconnect / lift the ground and reconnect it in the event of a fault.

If you disconnect the HiCap and replace it with the link plug then does that change the hum issue?

I know that the morgana cable can cause problems in this configuration.
As i had one that went bad, plus i know others had problems as well.
I would first change this cable with one you know is good and go from there.

I would try just rca’s to rca’s.
Also try a different input on the naim, just make sure that the din inpyou are using on the naim is ok.

Dunc,

I tried that. Issue is the same with RCA>RCA ICs on any input.

Phil,

Taking the Hi-cap out and replacing the link plug does not change the hum.

Well obviously something isn’t happy.
It’s really going to be trial and error.

Do you have a different source you can connect to see if it’s the same or now gone?

As obviously many things can cause this.

Duncan,

It has been remedied by my trial and error to good success.

I simply wonder if those with more knowledge of the cicuit topologies or relevant experience can suggest a better, more elegant or higher performance solution.

This combo is mind blowing and is staying put. In my glee, I am just getting OCD about the details.

Cheers,
Eric

Join the club!

This gear is like any good scientific instrument. The magic is in the details of set-up. My view is that OCD is a necessary evil in this world.