ThePhoenix

Just edited the original post as the static has returned; so, it appears the issue isn't only or isn't at all with the power cable. Damn. Any ideas I haven't gone over? I find it hard to believe a cap is going out in the amp itself, but would that create an intermittent static noise?

Hello, EDIT: the original "solution" proved to be a coincidence. So, I was writing a big long post (saved below) and may have solved my own problem whilst doing so. I'm still posting just because, while the solution was one of those "d'oh" things, it might help someone else in the future. TL;DR, I think my cheapo Amazon Basics power cable isn't grounded/shielded properly and was creating a static sound in the left channel. So, if someone from Google pops in with a similar issue, check a different cable before pulling your hair out like I have. ------Problem------ I recently purchased a used Mjolnir Pure BiPolar (S/N 020) and have an intermittent issue with static coming through the left channel. I first thought "ground loop", but everyone describes that as a hum and this is more like white noise. I have tried several outlets/combinations of electronics powered on and off to no avail. The sound only ever occurs in the left channel; its loudness is unaffected by the volume knob and comes and goes seemingly at random. The noise is usually relatively quiet, but can reach levels around what I'd describe as being a lower level listening volume. I would say that the sound usually doesn't appear for a few minutes after power up, but I wouldn't say that is a hard and fast rule. Also, the static occurs regardless of whether or not something is connected to the inputs or if a source is powered on/transmitting signal. I am disinclined to believe there is any issue with the headphone cable, as it is a new Sennheiser CH 650 S. I don't have a way of confirming my theory or not as this is my only balanced set at the moment. -----Solution?----- I believe I have solved the issue simply by trying the power cable I use on my DAC in place of the super cheap Amazon Basics cable I had in a drawer. I don't especially believe in high-end cables, but I imagine the Amazon cable must have a rubbish ground or something. So, I'm looking at a decent, non-insane power cord to replace it with. Here's hoping that's the end of it. [I will try and remember to report back to the positive or negative.] EDIT: unfortunately, the static returned a few hours later, so it seems the "solution" was a coincidence. Back to the drawing board. -----Side Note----- Spritzer, et. al, kudos to you all! The amp is fabulous and, in my opinion, money well spent. I don't have enough experience with different amps to review it, but it sounds great to my ears. I've wanted one for quite some time and just had to snag this one when I found it. For those who care, the Mjolnir is replacing a Woo WA6-SE and is currently paired with a Bifrost Uber (I'm saving for an Yggdrasil or similar). At the moment, I'm using a set of Sennheiser HD 650s, and, once Drop finally sends my balanced cable for it, I'll switch to my HD 800s (non-S), which I'm really looking forward to. Anyways, hope this helps some future person and is a reminder that one can think they've checked all of the obvious issues and realise the MOST obvious thing to change was the actual problem.