Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

Static noise coming from Headphones when using Macbook Pro charger

I bought a new Magsafe Charger (85W) for my macbook and i noticed that when the charger is pluged into the macbook pro, there is a lot of static noise when using headphones. If i remove the headphones the static noise goes away and doesnt happen with the macbook's own speakers. Also if continue to use headphones and i disconnect the charger from the macbook pro, the static noise goes away again. Ive tried using different headphones, the problem continues, and ive tried using my old charger and it works perfect without any static noise, so it seems the new charger is the reason behind it.


Im using a mid 2009 macbook pro, which came with the t-style connector for its charger. the new charger that i bought is l-type connector. is the static noise down to the updated version of the charger, would it just continue if i exchanged it and would have to try to find an old t-style charger as it came with the macbook pro? Or is there something i can do to the macbook i have now that would solve the static noise issue?

MacBook Pro, OS X Mavericks (10.9)

Posted on Nov 2, 2013 8:02 AM

Reply
Question marked as Best reply

Posted on Nov 7, 2013 12:08 AM

I have exactly the same problem except I'm using a late-2009 13 inch Macbook (not Pro) and both the old adapter and the new one I just bought are L-style (60W)

Whenever I plug the adapter in I can hear a hissing static noise through my headphone, if I remove it, the noise is gone. Also, there's no such noise when I'm using my old adapter, so this must be the problem with the new Magsafe itself.

33 replies

Apr 17, 2015 5:58 PM in response to Esilian

I think I may have just found a solution to this problem and it's very simple. I too bought a 3rd party charger because Apple charging $100 for an AC adapter is just ridiculous in my opinion. I can buy a cheap laptop for that price.


I had 2 AC adapters noticed that only the new one I purchased had this problem. I tried many things like swapping the prongs, none of it worked.


Then I inspected the adapter again. When you take off the prong attachment there is a metal rod that holds it in place (see picture). It's hard to see with the naked eye, but upon further inspection and feeling with my finger, I noticed it didn't feel quite metal. That's when I noticed there was a thin plastic film covering it.


I simply peeled off the plastic and reattached the prong.


Viola, the static noise was gone. Not sure if it'll work for everyone here, but it definitely worked for me. Just wanted to share my experience in hopes that it helps someone else out.

User uploaded file

Aug 20, 2015 11:15 AM in response to Esilian

I'm experiencing the same problem. When the AC mag safe is plugged in, there is a static buzz on my headphones. When I remove the magsafe connection, the noise goes away. That tells me its the magsafe AC power.


I tried the kill core audio thing on the last post but it didn't work. While it's nice to know I can by an intermediary device or filter, that doesn't satisfy me.


After spending $2,200 on a new 2015 MBP, I consider it a design flaw when a plugged in macbook (using OEM Apple Magsafe power supply) generates noise on it's headphone output. Is the macbook pro no longer the elite device for audio and video? Or was I just confused in thinking that it was?

Dec 2, 2015 11:38 AM in response to TRLyle

I had the same problem and the same solution seemed too have worked-

Ditch the power supply.

Thanks greatly

Follow up questions-

1. Were you able to ascertain whether the problem lay with the power brick

or that you plug into the wall?


2. Does the problem occurs with after market power supplies?

Any problem with new Apple brand replacements?

(The one I have looks like its Apple but since I inherited the machine who knows?)

Static noise coming from Headphones when using Macbook Pro charger

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple ID.