15
Aug

Grounding of power amplifiers

Ground loop currents flow through A -> B to the protected earth at point B, and then to mains ground via B -> C. They cannot flow through the audio path so this topology is resistant to ground loops even with unbalanced inputs. The limitation on system performance in the presence of a ground loop is now determined by the voltage drop in the input cable ground, which is outside the control of the amplifier designer. A balanced input in theory cancels out this voltage drop completely.

Seen in Audio Power Amplifier Design Handbook 5th Ed. by D.Self