HDD noise through speakers - odd problem

An odd problem - the scratching of the HDD is constantly amplified through the speakers in addition to the audio output. Is this because it causes power fluctuations? Hardware or software issue? What can I do?

Many thanks in advance

2010 Asus X52F

Supplemental - I've actually found that ANY electrical activity in the computer produces a noise through the speakers - using the trackpad produces a scraping noise and high processor activity seems to make a whine.

 

Anyone any ideas?

 

Some noise from interference is normal, but it shouldn't overpower your audio. You should be able to listen to almost anything except for something very soft (like a flute or something for example) without really noticing any noise. That's not normal for the internal speakers, unless you have a very low audio track playing on full volume. For the line-out, it's pretty much unavoidable, and gets worse as you increase the volume of the amp driving your speakers. You can use a power conditioner (not a normal surge protector) if you have very dirty power, or try running on battery power to see if it can be tied to your power supply and/or mains power.

 

Thanks a lot allurgroceries - i'll give that a go.

Nice to see another Linux user out there as well - at least WE know it's not a virus!

John