Guitar sound coming from unit

I run my 50w 5150 into the Power Load IR using the analog cab sim mode. I noticed with a push of volume from the amp that there is audible guitar sound coming from the unit itself when I play. I saw the Fryette video posted on this phenomenon but it was still a little unclear that the Power Load IR produced this sound rather than the tube amp transformer. Can someone clarify that this sound is normal and not something that is damaging the transformer etc?

Thanks so much for any clarity and help!

Hi @aarjcon and welcome to the forum,

Yes, it’s usual, particularly at high input levels. But you are right to point out the PL-IR does not have an output transformer, so why do notes? It’s the reactive load; like an output transformer, it has a magnetic core that is magnetising and demagnetising with the ups and downs of the input signal. It’s basically the same reason an output transformer makes the same noise but coming from a different magnetic component.

1 Like

Dan, thanks so much for confirming that for me. I’m very pleased with the job that the PLIR does, and the fact that I can play a 5150 at 11 pm with my 7 year old sleeping above me, ha. Have a great day!

I think I need one at home… we have a 7-day-old :grinning_face:

1 Like

Congrats! That’s a fresh human :grinning_face:

1 Like

Congratulations Dan and family

1 Like