Buzzing/Static/EMI/crackling noise when system under load

[CWalden]

Crackling/buzzing/static noise when GPU under load.

 

 

Parts list:

* Motherboard: Asrock Z87 Extreme 9/ac

* CPU: Intel core i7 4770K

* GPU: 2x Gigabyte Radeon R9 280x OC Windforce in Crossfire

* PSU: Corsair RM850 gold

* Case: Fractal Design Define R5

 

So, here's  my story:

Yesterday, I swapped all my parts over from my old Fractal Design Define R4 to my new R5. My friend and I took our time, wore gloves that I was told were anti-static by the man in the shop, and did everything correctly as far as I can tell. The PC booted up nicely and all seemed fine.

 

The issue came when I put on my headphones and started using the PC. I noticed a very faint crackling noise behind a video I was playing. I later tried to boot up GTA V. Here the crackling/ stat was intense, and could be heard even with loud audio playing from the game. I closed the game and fired up MSI afterburner. This time the noise was a high-pitched  static/EMI kind of noise. This noise was also audible when taking the headset of and placing my ear inside the case, it seamed to come from the components. I also got the same noise when firing up Far Cry 4, and various noises in other games. 

 

Here's a rundown of what I know

* The noises seam to appear when the GPU is under load, and is stronger when under heavier load.

* Activating Crossfire seems to intensify the noise (because of higher power drain or processing power being used?)

* Turning all sounds off in windows has no effect on the noise. There is still the same amount of noise through the headset

* I have tried several headsets, so the issue is not there.

* By looking at the graphs provided by MSI Afterburner I found the noise to be worse the higher the GPU clock speeds were.

* The noises seem to be pretty much identical to what I can hear when sticking my ear next to the PSU exhaust.

Is the PSU to blame or is there a bigger conspiration going on? thank you.

 

I am grateful from any help or advice of any sort