Popping external speakers a few minutes after 2020 iMac goes to sleep

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Popping external speakers a few minutes after 2020 iMac goes to sleep

I recently bought the 2020 27" iMac. I have a set of Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 external speakers. I'd been using them without issue on my 2012 Mac mini, which the iMac replaced.

When I got the iMac, plugging the Klipsch speakers into the headphone jack produced an electronic hum, and after some research I learned this was an issue with Klipsch speakers the iMacs. (And I seem to recall having similar problems with an older iMac and an older set of Klipsch speakers...)

Fine. I bought a USB-to-audio-jack adapter and that solved that problem. But now there's a new issue.

When I sleep the iMac, after a few minutes there's a loud popping sound from the external speakers, and a few seconds later, a second pop. I have tried moving the USB adapter to a different port, as well as plugging it into a Thunderbolt 3 dock that connects a second monitor via HDMI.

I've seen this issue on older posts with previous model iMacs, and the solutions offered there don't help. It may just be something I have to live with. I have NOT yet talked to Apple support, but first wanted to see if anyone here has any suggestions.

Thanks.

iMac 27″, macOS 10.15

Posted on Aug 30, 2020 5:52 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Kappy

Level 10

361,855 points

Aug 30, 2020 8:21 PM in response to LeVeau

Talk with Apple since you get 90 days of free telephone support after purchase. If it's a defect then you may be eligible for a free replacement within the first 14 days from the date of purchase. Use your warranty with Apple, not here.

FYI: These are user-only communities. This is not Apple Support. if you need to contact Apple Support, then contact product and tech support: Contacting Apple for support and service includes international calling numbers.

The Apple Support Communities only provides help for users of Apple products. Apple does not read theae forums. If you wish to provide feedback to Apple, then go to Apple Feedback. Thank you for your understanding and support.

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Answer 2

LeVeau Author

Level 1

66 points

Aug 30, 2020 8:54 PM in response to Kappy

I did a support chat tonight, and they gave me some things to try that I’ll do. But it’s complicated by the fact that it’s third-party speakers and a USB adapter. So it’s not cut and dry that Apple can help me. Which is why I posted here, in case someone else has had this issue and found a solution.

I also put in a ticket with Klipsch.

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Answer 3

Kappy

Level 10

361,855 points

Aug 30, 2020 9:10 PM in response to LeVeau

If it has been covered here, then use the Search field to find other posts. Lot faster than waiting for that one person who has your answer. Could be as simple as the USB sound adapter you bought. You can check the plug on the speaker line because hum usually is the result of a poor ground connection.

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Answer 4

BORg529

Level 4

3,063 points

Aug 30, 2020 11:12 PM in response to LeVeau

Also, maybe you can invest in any Bluetooth speakers for your 2020 iMac. I successfully paired my 2020 27” iMac with DeWalt ToughSystem Music Radio, with Bluetooth with no issues. I know not this Klipsch, but letting you know.

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Popping external speakers a few minutes after 2020 iMac goes to sleep

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