As computer "works" it makes a static noise thru speakers...even with volume turned off. regular "sounds" are OK... loose connection? Bad drive? Hate to take it in to Geek squad or repair... noise drives me nuts!

You shouldn't be getting those noises but I suppose if they are being whacked out at full strength from the computer then they might just get through. So, as a very long initial shot, try turning up the volume up on the speakers then turning down the software volume controls on the computer. You might find some balance between the two volume control methods that helps the situation. Otherwise it makes me suspect sound card but I'd collect all the other ideas before thinking too hard along those lines. DerekW

Assuming the noise is crackling, I would suspect a fracture in the connection. The crackling noise is when the connection makes / breaks. The most common place this occurs is in the wire between the soundcard and the speakers. These days, It is cheaper to replace the speakers than rewire them. Try another set of speakers to isolate this. Another place to look is the plug. The could be some dirt or oxide causing a poor connection. Removing and reinserting the plug several times will usually clear this. Lastly, it could be the soundcard. A dry joint anywhere on the card could cause this. Most commonly it will be the where the socket is mounted as this can be subject to mechanical strain. Unless you are handy with a soldering iron, it's cheaper to replace than repair these.