External speaker issue

[Speakerissues]

I have Infinity external speakers that are AC powered (wall plug). Even when not connected to my PC via audio out, if I touch the end of the speaker input plug with anything metal (paper clip, screwdriver) I hear AM radio. Reminds me of younger years (yes, I'm senior) with crystal radios that you clipped the alligator clip to metal to receive AM radio. I like the speakers, any solution.

 

[thejackal85]

You hear AM radio while touching the input jack with anything metal? Wow, that's a new one. Do you know where the feed is coming from? A radio in your home, maybe? Next door?

 

[Speakerissues]

You hear AM radio while touching the input jack with anything metal? Wow, that's a new one. Do you know where the feed is coming from? A radio in your home, maybe? Next door?

 

[Speakerissues]

thejackal85, thanks for your interest.
I do have a entertainment center in the living room but all is turned off.
I just now went in my home office and listened to the speakers, not connected to my PC, but holding the speaker input plug with needle nose pliers. It's broadcasting CBS News on KNX 1070 AM. I Googled that and found it to be a online AM radio station. BTW: I then connected the speakers to my PC audio output and same station but much louder. Now I'm scratching my head because I can understand receiving a online stations bleed through when the PC is connected BUT how can I receive a "online" radio station when not connected to my PC? I also unplugged the power source for several minutes then plugged into a different socket, same issue. I am PC savvy (retired after 14 years with Sony IT) but this has got me baffled

 

[Alabalcho]

The only thing I can think about is that something inside your speakers works as an AM tuner (capacitance, antenna winding, crystal), and the metal (with your body) works as an antennae.

Another theory: A kind around you is playing with his Raspberry PI (there are simple apps to turn it into a radio).

Do you hear this on both left/right channels, or on just one? Did you try plugging your speakers in another outlet / circuit / house?

 

[Speakerissues]

The only thing I can think about is that something inside your speakers works as an AM tuner (capacitance, antenna winding, crystal), and the metal (with your body) works as an antennae.

Another theory: A kind around you is playing with his Raspberry PI (there are simple apps to turn it into a radio).

Do you hear this on both left/right channels, or on just one? Did you try plugging your speakers in another outlet / circuit / house?

 

[thejackal85]

I'm at a loss here, this is beyond my level of understanding. I can't imagine what would cause this problem. Just the right things being in the right position I guess.

 

[americanaudiophile]

Since the radio station is AM and has a frequency it is not likely to be internet only. You can try using a ferrite core to filter the AM signal
https/en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferrite_bead

 

[Speakerissues]

Since the radio station is AM and has a frequency it is not likely to be internet only. You can try using a ferrite core to filter the AM signal
https/en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferrite_bead

 

[Speakerissues]

Americanaudiophile, Thank you for your suggestion. This is the simplest, most logical solution I have heard yet and, Duh, I am embarrassed that I did not think of it myself. I think I might have a couple of clampons laying around, I'll try it out and let you know the outcome. I just ordered some new speakers that are USB powered thinking it was the power plug & house wireing acting as a AM antenna, but if your idea works they can be returned. I'll let you know, thanks.