A slight hissing from speakers is usually normal and technically inherent. In this article, you will learn where it comes from and how you can check with simple steps whether action is needed or not.
Where Does the Hissing Come From?
A slight hissing from the speakers is usually not a cause for concern. The speakers themselves are generally not the cause.
Especially with passive speakers, the cause almost always lies with the amplifier or A/V receiver. These devices inherently produce a low level of self-noise due to their design. It becomes noticeable mainly when no music is playing, no source device is connected, or the volume is turned up very high.
However, as soon as a music source such as a CD player, streaming device, or PC is correctly connected and selected, the hissing recedes into the background and remains at a normal level for high-quality hi-fi and home cinema systems. A slight background hiss is therefore not an indication of a defect.
If you still find the hissing disturbing or suspect a defect, the following checks and tips will help you.
How Can I Check if There Is a Defect?
Swap Speakers
- Hissing stays in the same position → The cause is very likely the amplifier or receiver.
- Hissing moves position→ This indicates that one of the speakers or the associated cable might be affected.
A detailed step-by-step guide can be found here: How can I tell whether cables, speakers or amplifiers are malfunctioning?
Other Possible Causes and Useful Checks
Source Devices and Input Source
Source devices can cause interference noises, especially with analog connections (RCA or jack). PCs or set-top boxes are common causes here.
What to do:
Disconnect all source devices from the amplifier and reconnect them one at a time. If possible, test another source device as well.
Cables and Connectors
Damaged, poorly shielded, or very long cables can cause hissing. Loose plugs or contact problems also can have an effect on this.
What to do:
Temporarily replace the cables and check if all connectors are firmly connected.
Power Supply and Grounding
Different sockets, power strips, or other electrical devices on the same circuit can cause interference.
What to do:
Temporarily connect all audio devices to the same socket and remove other electrical devices nearby.
Settings on Amplifier or Receiver
High input levels, activated sound enhancers, or equalizers can amplify the inherent noise.
What to do:
Temporarily reset the audio settings to factory defaults and deactivate all sound profiles.
Radio and Interference Influences
Smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, or DECT phones in close proximity can cause interference noises, especially with analog signals.
What to do:
Keep wireless devices at a distance and check if the hissing changes.
Listening Distance and Perception
Every system has a low level of inherent noise that is only noticeable at very close range. From a normal listening position, it should not be audible.
What to do:
Assess the hissing from your usual listening position.
Further Help and Background Information
If you still notice unusual noises after these checks, we recommend getting in contact with our customer service.