ZeroZero, it is in the phones as well. The powered satellite speakers are turned up to their max, which is 6 dB above line level. Everything (meaning software mixers) in the PC is set at max, so there's nowhere to go in terms of S/N. I hope that is responsive to your comment.

RE: Grounding: Y'all have put the fear of God in me as far as mucking about with that. I'll find another way.

To all: Remember I said the noise consisted of static and a whine? FWIW, the whine is pitched at B above E on the first string of my guitar. The static is affected by my Bluetooth mouse. I'll have to get a USB mouse to see whether that's it.

Meanwhile, Life Keeps Happening. I'll keep you posted.

"My primary musical instrument is the personal computer."