How to keep your signal clean using TONEX Devices

The TONEX Pedal & TONEX One were designed for both studio and live situations and should provide a noise-free experience in each setting. If you come across any noise while using your TONEX device, we've compiled this FAQ to help explain what could be happening and how to solve it.

What if I hear noise?
In most cases, noise is related to power and is explained in-depth in this excellent guide from Sweetwater. It's important to note that TONEX uses an isolated, non-grounded PSU. Either device uses the grounding of whatever equipment you connect to it. This helps reduce the likelihood (or severity) of noise affecting your signal.

What’s a ground loop?
A ground loop is a phenomenon that can occur when two or more audio devices are connected together by two ground paths at the same time, the first with the audio connection and the second with the power connection.

Should I use a grounded PSU?
Connecting a grounded PSU instead of a floating (non-grounded) PSU can help eliminate ground loop noise on its own, but it's important to note this could introduce potential noise when adding external gear to your chain. Check out this guide from Sweetwater. In short, multiple devices connected together and using their own grounded PSU can introduce noise caused by ground loops. A grounded PSU could be your solution if you use the TONEX alone. Otherwise, you’ll have to look deeper into what piece of gear is adding noise.

Noise while connecting to a P.A. system?
In most cases, you can send your device directly to a P.A. system without issues, but if you encounter noise, you can use a D.I. box. This setup (described in the User Manual on Page 10) can help lift the ground and prevent noise from being introduced from your chain.

Noise while using the TONEX device as an audio interface?
This noise might be caused by a ground loop, and related to multiple devices being connected to power using their own ground. The best solution is to simplify your power setup to avoid  interaction, or use another piece of gear like a ground loop isolation box or D.I. box.

 
FAQ ID: 1520