Radiated noise

If the antenna isn't causing the noise, try pulling the receiver from the dash while a tape or CD is playing. If the noise goes away, it's being radiated into your system. Try rerouting the wiring at the back of the receiver to stop the noise that's radiating into your system.

Noise in speaker wiring

Noise can also come in through the speaker wires (extremely rare). To test them, turn the system off and disconnect the speaker wires from the amps. Now start the car. If the noise is still there, then it's being radiated into the speaker wires. You'll have to reposition them.

Noise from your electrical system

If you've tried all of the noise-fighting tips above and you still hear the noise, the problem might be with your vehicle.

Have a mechanic check your alternator and battery. If your car is older and hasn't been tuned up recently, you may have ignition noise. It's a ticking noise that varies in speed as you accelerate. You may need a tune-up involving resistor-type spark plugs, shielded carbon-core spark plug wires, distributor cap, and coil.

If the noise doesn't disappear, then your ignition system may not be grounded well enough. It may be broadcasting ticks to other items such as your air cleaner, hood, exhaust system, etc. With your sound system on and the car running, try grounding each of these different components of the car. Call for details on how to sniff out the noisy component. It's possible that grounding one of your car's components will eliminate the noise. If so, make the ground permanent with a braided ground strap.

Noise and your nervous system

Noise problems can be very frustrating, especially when you can't wait to hear your new equipment. It helps to remember that you've just placed a very sophisticated piece of electronic gear (a new receiver or amplifier) in the middle of an extremely complex system — your vehicle's electrical wiring. Noise is just nature's way of telling you that something's out of whack. Just run down the list, eliminating possible noises sources until you find the problem.