Car Speaker Noise -- How To Eliminate It

There are several noise sources in a car audio setup. In this article, I’ll talk about one where your car speakers produce noise that seems to increase when you “rev” the engine. You’ll get to learn how to eliminate that annoying noise and enjoy your music.

First, you must understand that this is simply interference or induced noise. Induced noise can sound like clicking, popping, whirring, buzzing, whistling, or whining. This noise always has a source such as the alternator, car power wiring, amplifier, etc. So this means that the problem can be tackled at the source. Now, you just have to find it.

Power line noise problems (such as those from alternators) can be fixed by adding a capacitor or power line filter to the live source of the suspect component.

Another area to investigate is the earth, also known as ground wire, to the rear of the radio or head unit. Try running a new earth or ground wire from the rear of the radio to a new position (earth) on the car’s chassis, replacing the existing earth wire.

If you have installed an amplifier, ensure that the RCA cables running from the head unit to the amplifier are of good quality. Also make sure they are run along the car away from the car’s existing wiring and away from the amplifier's power cable. For the sake of testing, try running the RCA lead loosely between the head unit and the amplifier without actually running them under the carpet. “Rev” your engine with the radio on low volume and see if the noise is gone.

If you still have the noise, consult a car audio expert. There are a few things in car audio that require expert assessment. There could be a compound issue. A good car audio expert is better equipped to diagnose the problem.

Go to this site: car-audio-products-and-accessories.com and read on car speakers.

However, if you choose to use the pros, go here for a professional installer if you're in the UK.

Chimezirim Odimba writes for CarAudioPlus.
By Chimezirim Chinecherem Odimba