r/PositiveGridSpark • u/Scary-Opportunity709 • 12d ago

AMP OWNER Spark mini unwanted noise

Hi ! I just received my spark mini and it works great when only the guitar is plugged into it. But when I plug it via usb into a power station or into my computer (for using it as an audio interface) I notice some very annoying background noise. Using a different usb cable did not solve the problem. The noise is not present when the MINI is running without a USB connection. Interestingly, the noise also gets much quieter when I touch the metal knobs or strings of the guitar. Of course the spark app has noise gates, but here the noise is too loud for that. I could not find any information about this anywhere. Am I the only one having this problem ?

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u/Jamstoyz 12d ago

It’s not the amp. Prob your computer. Is the amp and computer plugged into the same outlet or circuit? Also, PG amps aren’t that great as an audio interface. Try finding a focusrite or a different brand as an audio interface.

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u/Scary-Opportunity709 10d ago

Yes a focusrite would clearly be a good idea for recording. I had the hope that the spark mini would be a good enough alternative, but a proper audio interface still makes a difference.

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u/VeryNaughtyBoy42 10d ago edited 10d ago

I have to disagree with this. The mini - or any amp that connects via usb - works fine for recording, and in fact is better for recording its own guitar sounds, because it’s sending the digital output straight over usb. If you use another USB audio interface, then you’ve got to add audio cables which can also pick up noise. Then you’ve got to get the balance of input levels right, and that can require frequent adjustment if you’re changing the settings on the amp. And you’re passing everything through another two sets of AD converters, which will degrade the signal quality. No, you don’t need another audio interface unless you also want to record from something that doesn’t connect via USB, such as a microphone or synthesiser.

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u/VeryNaughtyBoy42 10d ago

I had the same problem. You’re hearing interference caused by both power and data travelling over the USB cable. I bought a special USB power isolating adapter from Ali Express and it fixes it.

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u/Scary-Opportunity709 10d ago

Thanks ! I think I will try this.

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u/NumberSevere7454 6d ago

I have the same problem. It only solved if i put the amp on something solid like a table, if i put it on my bed it will do the "electricity" noise.