[R3]Bad noise when connecting usb/midi

Mauci · Post by **Mauci** » Mon Jan 17, 2011 12:52 pm

Hello everybody, first post. I am an happy R3 user but since I bought my new audio card for my macbook pro unibody I got an annoying hiss+crackling everytime I connect my R3 with the usb cable.
My audio card is a Presonus firestudio mobile connected via Firewire, using an adapter to match firewire400 to firewire800 ports.
I really don't know how to fix this problem, if somebody has a clue or a suggestion I would be grateful.

Thanks in advance.

xmlguy · Post by **xmlguy** » Mon Jan 17, 2011 1:37 pm

Try increasing the buffer size in your DAW or changing the operation mode parameter in the FireStudio Driver settings.

Mauci · Post by **Mauci** » Mon Jan 17, 2011 1:49 pm

I'll try try that later, I use logic studio.
Though, I think it could be a ground loop problem, or something like that.

xmlguy · Post by **xmlguy** » Mon Jan 17, 2011 1:55 pm

Ground loops don't usually cause pops and clicks. That's usually caused by buffer overflows.

Mauci · Post by **Mauci** » Mon Jan 17, 2011 2:11 pm

I see, I had a buffer overflow issue with FLstudio once, but I heard the noise only while playback the project. This kind of noise I hear right now, is always there, even when music is not playing.
If I plug my usb cable, it starts.
The strange thing is that the noise appeared since I plugged the presonus.
I used to plug my r3 (for midi purpose only) to mac without my external presonus, and there was no noise. Now that I use my presonus I have this annoying problem. Like if the firewire card is not compatible to usb midi...

sorry if there are some typos. I'm italian.

And thanks again for your attention

xmlguy · Post by **xmlguy** » Mon Jan 17, 2011 2:17 pm

The powersupply on your computer could also be generating noise on the ground, which will be transmitted through the R3 through the ground of the USB ports. In that case, you'll need to try using midi cables between the R3 and your Firestudio, and disconnect USB. Midi in ports have optical isolation, while USB doesn't.

Mauci · Post by **Mauci** » Mon Jan 17, 2011 2:45 pm

Oh that could be a nice solution, I'll try that and hope it works! I'll let you know asap.

Mauci · Post by **Mauci** » Mon Jan 31, 2011 9:35 am

Forgot to reply! sorry

anyway I fixed the problem by using midi cables, no more noise.
Thank you

synthjoe · Post by **synthjoe** » Mon Jan 31, 2011 10:48 am

Another ground loop solved. I'm stunned how the h*ll (semi-)pro, advanced soundcard manufacturers ignore this issue and leave it for users to sort out... Disappointing.

Mauci · Post by **Mauci** » Fri Feb 04, 2011 2:35 pm

Yeah, it's kinda lame...
Now I solved this issue but whenever I connect my R3 to pc to use the sound editor with the usb cable the noise it's always there...

axxim · Post by **axxim** » Fri Feb 04, 2011 8:33 pm

Mauci wrote:Yeah, it's kinda lame...
Now I solved this issue but whenever I connect my R3 to pc to use the sound editor with the usb cable the noise it's always there...

Have you tried another USB cable with supressor (those cilinders wrapped around them?

Another improvement can be made setting the R3's output near the max (about 80%) and reducing the input gain of your PC's audio device. If you have a sound card, make sure that in the audio mixer all unused inputs (specially the mic) are muted. You even can use the mixer to locate what channels are sensible to that USB interference.