USB Noise

For all of those who didn’t ask, one way I deal with noise that is created when powering via USB is to get a cheap powerbank (just purchased 2 for $20, and thats for both), and use traditional midi if applicable. Case in point, I’ve been setting up a little portable rig, and was getting terriable noises when powering my M8 (recharging), and Razzmatazz. Rectified the situation by simply using those previously mentioned powerbanks for each. Crazy thing is, I can get a literal full day of power, and no noise. It’s prevented me from losing my mind, and purchasing expensive solutions.
Here’s a link to those banks, if anyone is wondering…
LOVELEDI Portable-Charger-Power-Bank - 2 Pack 15000mAh Dual USB Power Bank Output 5V3.1A Fast Charger Portable Charger Compatible with Smartphones and All USB Devices (Deep Black and White) https://a.co/d/3l3UZCu

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Yeah, I’ll probably do that in the long run. It will just mean running 2x midi cables and Trs connectors to & from my Hermod+.

Mostly a curse. We can colonize Mars and have self driving cars but can’t solve USB noise. :man_facepalming:

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I got a multi-sized set of Ferrite Rings / Beads which just clip onto cables that don’t have them already (eg: Elektron USB cables) and you know what, it’s actually helped remove some of the higher pitched frequencies I was getting. Highly recommended since they’re cheap and a variety pack means you can attach them to any cables you think might need it, and even ones that don’t. They’re good for power / audio and USB cables.

I watched a Stimming live set gear breakdown recently on YT. most of what he was using was USB powered smaller devices. he said with USB, it’s very important for them to be plugged into different power sources. so some were plugged in, some on battery banks, IIRC. maybe worth trying…?

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Yeah, the problem comes when the usb is also providing midi or audio. But definitely useful to know.

The problem also arises when you connect an audio jack for audio with the same device that receives or provides power via usb, including via a shared usb hub. It’s better to power them independently, even though the same power strip should be ok.

I’ve been super impressed with the ferrite beads - pretty much made it a non issue for me now.

On my side, everytime I use a usb charger with multiple port and more than one device plugged into it, I ended getting noise.

My solution is use usb charger per device and that solve at least one aspect of the problem.
Might be useful to use ferite on the usb cable but for now I can still live with standard usb cable :slight_smile: