I have zero amp repair knowledge. Has anyone heard of this sort of problem? The volume cuts out with a pop or crackle, then returns, then cuts out again, randomly. Sometimes if you hit the top of the amp the volume pops back on. I've experimented with cables, inputs, guitars, etc., and have had no luck figuring out the cause. Much thanks.
the tube and some parts around the tube are shot.. same thing happened with my 58 Gibson amp. a whack on top helped it to work. then crackle. then nothing.
dont whack the amp anymore. my tech chewed me out . so no more whacking.
the problem with my amp was the seat in which the tube sits.
he replaced a few and added a grounded cord. about 70 bucks.
the amp is great now.
better than before.
so get your amp to a repairman. your local guitar store should offer that service; they outsource.
You could also, before you take it in, unplug it, let it sit awhile to let the caps discharge, and then unplug and then repluge each tube. It might just be a bit of corrosion on the contacts. The crackling off and on though - also unplug and replug the speaker to make sure there's no corrosion on either the speaker plug or the jack. I had something similar happen recently with a brand new Fender Bassman combo. I thought the amp was going but it turned out the speaker plug/jack just needed a little DeOxit.
Best
Thanks a lot for the replies. You guys were dead on. I went home and checked the tubes and one of the tubes was loose. I turned on the amp and when I moved the tube the volume cut out and then came back on as I moved the tube again. Evidently, it needs a new seat for the tube and maybe a new tube. Either way, it's a relief to know what was wrong with the thing. Thanks again.
be real careful when going behind the amp. I use wooden chop sticks to wiggle things. the capacitors in the amp hold a charge for a significant time. if you accidently touch one you'll get a major shock.
I always discharge the caps before putting my hand back there.
to discharge take a screw driver that is insulated (rubber or plastic grip).
then touch the cap(s) and some metalic part (like the chassis) with the metal part of the screw driver while touching the cap with th tip of the driver.
a loud and startling POP will occur.
it always scares me even tho I know it is coming.
the cap is discharged and if the amp is unplugged from the walll socket you can go in he back safely.
That method burns craters in the metal. Much better to do it through a resistor of 1K or so, to keep down the arcing.
"A cheerful heart is good medicine."
That method burns craters in the metal. Much better to do it through a resistor of 1K or so, to keep down the arcing.
thanks for a good tip.
