Hello,
We, members of the forum Gathering of Tweakers, specifically Het Logitech PLOPJES probleem topic Deel 4, started this topic in the Netherlands due to an overwhelming number of complaints concerning noise issues regarding Logitech Audio Systems. This involves, in particular, the Z-5500 and X-530 speaker set, but also other Logitech audio models suffer from this issue.
Let us first explain what the problems are about.
There are 3 main issues:
1. "Popping" noises from the speaker system. When light switches, blenders, fridges or other electrical appliances are switched on or off, a very loud and disturbing "popping" noise is generated in the audio systems. Sometimes the volume of this “pop” is at such a loud level, that you do not want to be in the same room when it occurs.
2. An irritating permanent ‘humming noise’ coming from the subwoofer.
3. And in some occasions the speaker picks up radio signals that can be heard. And that without any other appliances connected.
Since most people do not realize that the problems are part of their Logitech speaker system, they usually blame their indoor electrical system or other electrical appliances. This idea was (and still is) stimulated by the things mentioned in the customer support (FAQ 3629 and 3630) section on Logitech's website. As a result, many people are buying EMI filters, which of course do not provide a solution. Some members have started the initiative and contacted Logitech about these issues in order to solve the problems. At first, Logitech even denied that a problem existed which affected their speaker systems. However, a few members, who are qualified engineers, did investigate the Z-5500 and some other audio models and figured out exactly what is causing the noise problems. With some minor modifications they managed to solve almost completely the noise issues.
It became very clear that the noise problem is a result of a design error and affects not only the Z-5500 and the X-530, but also other Logitech audio models. There is no doubt that the Logitech design staff has repeatedly underestimated the importance of a proper shielding of the respective audio units. May we point out that it is common knowledge that a proper shielding of audio equipment is essential, in order to avoid noise problems.
However, it took an incredible 5 months for Logitech to accept this fact. Due to our efforts Logitech was not able to deny any longer that a serious problem exists regarding their audio units. Since Logitech showed no initiative at all to change their FAQ section, we had to press hard for Logitech to do so! As a result the FAQ were somewhat altered and a refund policy, concerning the Z-5500 as well as the X-530, is offered.
May we draw your attention to the fact that Logitech is still talking about a "manufacturing issue". However, the noise problems are definitely a result of a design error!
Now, 10 months later, after many emails, phone calls, meetings, prototype testing and even some visits of members of Logitech’s Technical staff (to test some experimental units at the homes of members), the aim of this matter, a popping free Z-5500 speaker system, has been obtained! For X-530 Surround-Sound Audio customers who experience this problem and have not found a suitable solution with our Customer-Support staff, Logitech is offering the option of a refund on the purchase price.
Logitech believes that the noise (popping) problem is very localized and only concerns The Netherlands and Belgium. However, this is a far cry from the reality. By using Google it is not very hard to find many, many, forums (worldwide) that are related to this “popping" problem.
If you experience this problem you can contact the Logitech customer support. If there becomes a problem while contacting them you can send me an email message plopjesprobleem@xs4all.nl so I can help you further. EDIT: The email address plopjesprobleem@xs4all.nl is not longer available. If you have a question or something else please post your message here on the forum.
Best regards,
The Forum members
Representatives: BvB (tm030614 - representing the forum users of tweakers.net)
RV, MvH, DW, RC
Message Edited by tm030614 on 10-21-200611:20 AM
Message Edited by tm030614 on 02-07-200705:50 AM
Message Edited by tm030614 on 02-07-200705:50 AM
Message Edited by tm030614 on 03-04-200712:27 PM
