Solution : about 99% of the time, the problem is fixed by simply plugging the laptop into a grounded (3-prong) outlet.

On a Mac, if you're using the Apple power adapter without the extra power cable (with a 3-prong plug instead of the 2-prong plug), you may get a buzzing sound. On a PC, different adapters work differently, but hopefully you have a power adapter with a 3-prong plug.

The problem is caused by a well-known phenomena, a ground loop . When you plug in your laptop to a grounded outlet (3 prongs), the circuits for audio in the laptop have a 'ground' signal to make sure the audio doesn't get any interference. Sometimes, if your laptop or a USB accessory is made of metal, you might notice the buzz goes away if you touch a metal part. This is a surefire sign you have a ground loop problem.

With USB headsets, the only way to fix this is to plug your laptop into a grounded outlet. With analog headsets, there are some other ways of fixing the problem by isolating the signal better.

See related: Buzz or Hum in Computer Speakers .