JamesPaul
Well-known member
It reads zero when I do this.
Then probably measuring 1.7 ohms with both leads on the bridge, is due to dirt or oxidation on the bridge, or the plating not being a perfect conductor.
Going back to that bridge wire to bridge measurement, slowly climbing up to 16 ohms, I have only seen that with a capacitor or inductor being involved in the circuit, or when as Hank- noted with old batteries.
Obviously this will not solve your hum problem, but it may remove the mysterious readings you are getting. If you have not already, try some new batteries in your DMM, and if you have access to a different meter, try measuring with it.