My first post here. I know the topic of REL and Naim interconnection is widely discussed on this forum. I promise I am not here to reignite the binding posts vs blueline discussion! I have My SN3 connected to Focal 936’s using SQ type 8 speaker cables, which is working fine to my ears for a while now. I recently added a single REL T9X to my setup, which is connected to the Focal’s binding posts via supplied speakon cable (banana plugs at speaker end ). I also have .1 input connected to REL from my Yamaha receiver ( Yamaha pre-out is also connected to NAIM AV in’s for HT front main - not sure if that is relevant for my problem). On the T9X, I have settled around 14 clicks for my gain settings and cross over around 50 -55. My problem is a faint, but audible crackling noise form the Focals ( Seems to be from the tweeter) when playing some tracks with low bass. Not always but for those songs for which the SW is really worked up. For testing, I disconnected speakon cables from the Focals, and everything is fine withe speakers - no crackling noise even at a higher volume ( I usually play between 8’o clock and 9’clock position on SN3)
Any similar experiences ? I have a list of try -outs ,including changing out the speaker cables to Naim or try-out the BLB Naim version from SN3 to Focals. Any recommendations on what to try ? What makes sense and what’s not ?
PS: T9x is on a different outlet than rest of the system
Crackling usually indicates one of two possible issues:
A poor connection either at the sub end or speaker end. How are the high level plugs terminated? Are they properly soldered or crimped, or are they screw-ons?
Signal ground plane interference. You mentioned you had the Yamaha sub out also connected to the sub. May I ask why? I’m not sure a sub can/should serve two masters and now there are two return paths.
I do not know what might be the likely issue in your case, but I’d first start by ruling out the ground plane interference from the Yamaha by disconnecting the sub out (at the sub end) and simply confirm if the issue persists or not.
High Level at the speakers end is terminated with screw on type banana plugs - not soldered. With a loose connection, I suppose the crackling must be persistent, not with specific songs / frequencies ?
Yamaha sub out is connected to REL for HT. As per REL , LFE .1 and High level inputs can be used simultaneously. I had humming issues earlier when I introduced the Yamaha into the setup. This was resolved by adding a connection from the Yamaha enclosure to the equipment ground of the power conditioning unit. However, disconnecting Yamaha sub out does not resolve the crackling issue
Just out of curiosity, when you tested by disconnecting the Yamaha, did you also disconnect the sub’s ground connection that you mentioned adding?
I’m still somewhat suspicious of the screw on plugs you mentioned. Though I’m at a loss to explain the symptoms. On the other hand you can probably test another cable. Even using a length of lamp chord and the bare wire terminals instead of plugs might be okay purely for testing purposes.
But probably the most important sanity check when a problem develops after a change is to revert it back and double check the change really introduced the problem. In other words, disconnect the sub from the speakers entirely and confirm the problem goes away.