Tom3839

Hi guys just need a bit of advise regarding the noise my speakers make when the engine is running. The system is installed in a wakeboard boat and comprises of 2 speakers on the wake tower and an amp under the dash. It also had a JVC stereo and clarion speakers that came stock with the boat. The system works perfectly when the ignition is on and the engine isn't running but as soon as the engine is running a buzz can be heard through the wake tower speakers but not the original speakers which are not wired up through the amp. The engine is a 330hp mercruiser V8 inboard. Any ideas on how to fix would be greatly appreciated.
Ps due to the boat having no real metal frame the amp is wired directly onto the battery, ground and all.

IT Hz

iTrader: (1)

This amp under the dash, what make and model is it? How old is the amplifier wiring? (Power and Ground cable)

Tom3839

Brought the amp off ebay.. Could be half the problem. Wiring is all brand new as well. But the speakers don't buzz when the engine isn't running, works fine with just the ignition on

IT Hz

iTrader: (1)

You still didn't tell me what make and model of amp this is. I have a funny feeling the amp is the problem. Easiest thing to do, borrow an amp from someone, temporarily hook it up to the same wiring see if the problem persists, if it doesn't change, your next step is to replace the RCA cables or to reroute them.

Tom3839

I wi give it a go tomorrow. I don't think the amp is the problem because as I said the speakers and amp work fine without the engine running, I think the alternator could be it because it changes pitch with the engine. And becuase it's wired directly onto the battery this would make sense because the alternator produces more current at higher rpm... Or I may be completely wrong altogether, wouldn't be the first time

Tom3839

Also the amp is in an bitch of a spot so I would rather not have to pull it all out and rewire another one if necesaery... Already spent many hours on my back under the dash

IT Hz

iTrader: (1)

That doesn't neccessarily mean the alternator could be the problem of the noise. You can try this as well, grab a good quality (4 guage ground wire with copper ring terminals ) and add another ground from where the factory ground cable is in the boat. So I've asked you what make and model of amp this is, are you going to answer this or am I completely wasting my time here trying to help you out.

IT Hz

iTrader: (1)

Welcome to installing audio systems in boats ! (LOL) Friendly word of advise for you, always put your systems components in a boat on an easily accessible area.

Tom3839

Sorry, amp says powervox on it in big letters so I'm guessing that's the brand. 2800watt 4 channel

IT Hz

iTrader: (1)

I have a funny feeling the amp is the problem. I read some forums online about this amp and not one person had anything good to say about "Powervox" amps. So in all seriousness eventhough it was a complete pain in the *** to install I strongly suggest removing it. RELOCATE IT TO AN ACCESSIBLE SPOT, as I said before grab an amp from someone you know and temporarily hook it up to your existing wiring and see if the problem is still there. Another thing, if your only running a pair of speakers you only need a 2 channel amp. In boat audio applications you want to keep things as simple as possible for the simple reason of current draw.