Static buzzing noise through speakers when laptop connected to external monitor

Question

Level 1

14 points

Static buzzing noise through speakers when laptop connected to external monitor

I recently purchased a 2016 MacBook Pro along with the LG 5K Ultra Fine display. When the display is turned on however a constant static buzzing noise comes through the 2.1 speakers connected to the 1/8in port on the computer There was no issue at all before this when my 2016 MacBook was connected to an older external display.

I unplugged the speakers and then a few days later when I was about to place an order for a USB audio interface I figured I'd try to plug the speakers in one last time and the static/buzzing was completely gone! I used the speakers as normal for a few days and then had to unplug the monitor to move something. When I plugged it back in the noise was back and I can't get rid of it again. What the heck!

From what I've seen on the forums so far seems to be some sort of grounding issue causing the static but it worked just fine randomly for a few days so I think it might be some sort of software issue?

Posted on Jan 19, 2017 4:36 PM

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Answer 1

Skunkado

Level 1

9 points

Aug 15, 2017 4:49 PM in response to Rad0909

I'm having the exact same issue! But I'm sorry to tell you that an interface wont solve it apparently... I have a Universal Audio Apollo Twin - ($1000) Thunderbolt interface plugged into my 2016 Macbook Pro with an Apple Thunderbolt 2 to USB-C adaptor (Note: the Interface does not work going through the LG monitor which I'm not happy about) and It still buzzes like crazy. I'm talking LOUD. Like, you can't hear music coming through it, loud.

When I plug my power supply into the Macbook Pro the noise goes way down but is definitely still very present.

So instead of having just one cable to plug in because of it's several USB-C ports (which is why I bought this expensive screen in the first place) I currently have to have my mac power supply, apollo, and screen plugged into my macbook pro which completely defeats the purpose and isn't even close to solving the issue of the grounding issue/noise.

This is very unfortunate seeing as music/sound is my livelihood and now my brand new setup cannot even be used.

I don't know what to do.

Apple???

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Answer 2

Dec 10, 2017 8:30 AM in response to Skunkado

Same setup here. I'm thinking about getting a Hum-X. Going to test with a ground lifter on the monitor. Were you able to solve this? Will let you know my findings. I also suspect that it might be related to Apple's Thunderbolt / USB-C adapter not being shielded properly.

I have a HengeDock Stone (USB-C Tethered Hub) arriving tomorrow. Will also try attaching the Apollo directly to it's Thunderbolt 2 connection.

2016 13" MacBook Pro with Touchbar

LG 5K UltraFine USB-C

UA Apollo Twin Mk1 (Thunderbolt)

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Answer 3

Dec 17, 2017 4:36 AM in response to AZTrailBlazer

I've got the same problem.

New setup costing several thousand and I can't use my speakers because of the constant noise when the macbook is connect to my Dell Monitor.

System is currently a very expensive set of door stops!!

This is clearly a known issue. Can Apple respond please.

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Answer 4

Cunnla

Level 6

8,263 points

Aug 15, 2017 6:14 PM in response to Rad0909

Have you tried adjusting the settings for speakers in Audio MIDI Setup, which is in the Utilities folder on your Mac?

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Answer 5

Dec 9, 2017 9:44 PM in response to Rad0909

Were you able to solve this? I'm experiencing the same issue with my LG 5K and and Apollo Twin Thunderbolt.

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