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My Speakers Are Making Abnormal Noises – What Do I Do?

If your Spottune speakers are producing abnormal noises, the issue is typically related to bad wireless signal quality or interference. This guide explains how to optimize your installation for the best possible performance.

Understanding the Issue

Spottune uses professional DECT wireless technology to transmit audio from the Stream to the Omni speakers.

When the wireless connection quality is reduced, you may experience:

  • Crackling or popping sounds

  • Short audio interruptions

  • Distorted audio

  • Speakers temporarily dropping out

  • Inconsistent audio performance

In most cases, these issues can be resolved by improving signal conditions between the Stream and Omni speakers.

Step 1: Check the Stream Antennas

The most common cause of poor signal quality is incorrectly mounted antennas.

Verify the Antennas Are Properly Attached

Inspect both antennas on the back of the Stream and ensure they are:

  • Fully screwed onto the antenna connectors

  • Tightened securely by hand

  • Not loose or damaged

Even a slightly loose antenna can significantly reduce signal performance.

Position the Antennas Correctly

For optimal coverage, both antennas should be positioned in a "V" formation.

Recommended Position

  • Both antennas pointing upwards

  • Slightly angled away from each other

  • Approximately 30–45 degrees from vertical

Correct:

\     /
 \   /
  \ /

Avoid:

To ensure the best possible connection, always make sure that the antennas are not laying down horizontal.

Step 2: Verify Omni Speaker Orientation

Each Omni speaker contains an internal antenna.

For best wireless performance:

  • The antenna side of the speaker should face towards the Stream.

  • Avoid mounting the speaker with the antenna side facing away from the Stream whenever possible.

How to Identify the Antenna Side

The antenna is located behind the side featuring the Spottune logo.

When installing the speaker:

✓ Spottune logo facing the Stream

This provides the strongest possible wireless connection.

Step 3: Check Distance and Obstacles

Large obstacles can reduce wireless signal strength.

Examples include:

  • Concrete walls

  • Reinforced concrete floors

  • Elevator shafts

  • Metal ceilings

  • Large steel structures

  • Electrical cabinets

If possible:

  • Reduce the distance between the Stream and affected speakers.

  • Relocate the Stream to a more central position.

  • Avoid mounting the Stream inside metal cabinets or network racks.

Step 4: Identify Potential DECT Interference

Although DECT technology is highly robust, nearby devices operating on the same frequency range may affect performance in certain environments.

Potential sources of interference include:

Cordless DECT Telephones

Common in:

  • Offices

  • Reception areas

  • Warehouses

  • Staff rooms

Examples:

  • Gigaset systems

  • Panasonic DECT phones

  • Yealink DECT systems

  • Snom DECT systems

DECT Headsets

Common in:

  • Call centres

  • Customer service desks

  • Retail customer support counters

Examples:

  • Jabra DECT headsets

  • Poly (Plantronics) DECT headsets

  • EPOS DECT headsets

DECT Base Stations

Large deployments may include:

  • Multi-cell DECT systems

  • Wireless communication systems

  • Enterprise telephony infrastructure

Security and Alarm Systems

Some professional alarm systems and communication devices use DECT technology for wireless communication.

Other Audio Systems

Although less common, nearby wireless audio systems using DECT technology may compete for spectrum.

Step 5: Perform a Simple Test

If you suspect interference:

  1. Temporarily power off nearby DECT devices.

  2. Listen to the affected speaker.

  3. Observe whether the abnormal noises disappear.

If audio quality improves, interference is likely contributing to the issue.

Step 6: Reboot the System

After adjusting antennas or relocating equipment:

  1. Power off the Stream.

  2. Wait 10 seconds.

  3. Power the Stream back on.

  4. Allow speakers to reconnect automatically.

This ensures the system establishes the best possible wireless connection.

Best Practice Checklist

Before contacting support, verify the following:

✓ Stream antennas are securely attached
✓ Stream antennas are positioned in a V formation
✓ Omni speakers face the Stream with the logo side
✓ Stream is not mounted inside a metal cabinet
✓ No large obstacles block the signal path
✓ Nearby DECT devices have been identified and tested
✓ The system has been rebooted after adjustments

Still Experiencing Noise?

If abnormal noises continue after completing the steps above, please contact Spottune Support and provide:

  • Location name

  • Number of affected speakers

  • Photos of the Stream installation

  • Photos showing antenna positioning

  • Approximate distance between Stream and speakers

  • Information about nearby DECT devices

This information will help our support team identify the root cause and recommend the best solution.

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