Why Is the Radio Squealing Through the Speakers?

Multiple ground wires can cause a radio to squeal.

Stereo systems, particularly those in vehicles, are prone to squealing. There are two reasons for this: first, the unit may not be grounded properly, and second, the speaker connections and wires may have gone bad.

Connections

Often, bad speaker connections and wires create radio squealing. Troubleshoot this by removing and disconnecting the speakers and reconnecting the speakers with new wires.

Speakers

If new connections do not get rid of the squealing, replace the speaker with a known functional model. If the whine is still present, then the problem is with the system itself, not the speaker.

Grounding

Look for the ground wire inside of your system; the ground wire is connected to a screw or plate. In vehicles, it is usually connected to the chassis. Make sure that there is only one ground wire, and try grounding it in different locations to eliminate the whine.

References

• Termpro.com: Noise Prevention
• Car Audio Help: Alternator Whine