Crowdster +2 jack noise

[dplight]

I'm suspecting that I may have a output jack problem. Every now and then when playing in split/stereo mode I get noise that sounds like a bad connection in the acoustic output. Tapping on the plug can make it happen. I've tried 3 stereo cables that all check out good and it happens with them all. In mono/combined mode it never happens. I'm thinking that the ring connection of the jack id barely making contact and intermittantly looses connection. I'm thinking of replacing the jack, but am wondering if there is a way to bend the ring connection a bit (maybe with a dental pick or something).

[tom]

Those jack points are not external like simpler ones are. About all you can try is t give the inside of th jack a good hosing with doxit. Give it a good squirt and run the plug in and out.

[dplight]

Thanks, I looked into the jack with a lit magnifying glass. All looks in place. I cleaned it out with some of the red deoxit. Hopefully that's it.

[Pietro]

If the cable (and plug) are cheaper, they may create a problem, too. Some TRS plugs that I've used have given me fits, even new (although not on my C+2)

That's why I use a cable from Lava.

[dplight]

If the cable (and plug) are cheaper, they may create a problem, too. Some TRS plugs that I've used have given me fits, even new (although not on my C+2)

That's why I use a cable from Lava.

I generally make up all my own cables using either Mogami or Canare wire and Nuetric connectors. Trying a different type of connector is a good idea (thanks) and will be put on the list of stuff to try if tonights practice has any crackles. I keep several types of 1/4" TRS connectors on hand (doesn't everybody?).

[Pietro]

I generally make up all my own cables using either Mogami or Canare wire and Nuetric connectors. Trying a different type of connector is a good idea (thanks) and will be put on the list of stuff to try if tonights practice has any crackles. I keep several types of 1/4" TRS connectors on hand (doesn't everybody?).

I've done this, and had problems with those cables, so I stopped.

I bought two of the Lava cables, and when one got messed up, lava just sent me a new one... no worries. That works for me.

[dplight]

I've done this, and had problems with those cables, so I stopped.

I bought two of the Lava cables, and when one got messed up, lava just sent me a new one... no worries. That works for me.

I've been an electronics tech since the late 70's and have worked in the field since. I have probably made up a couple thousand cables of various types for studio and live music applications. I've had better luck with my own cables than with premade ones. I have had a few duds too. I like choosing the cable and connector types I want and have a few favorites that I always go back to.

Anyway, practice went without any unwanted noise. Light tapping on the plug on the C+2 did result in some small chirps of noise that shouldn't be there. I think I'll try a different connector as you suggested.

[Pietro]

I have to ask though...

Are you using mike cable and splitting at one end?

[dplight]

I have to ask though...

Are you using mike cable and splitting at one end?

Not splitting. I am making the cables TRS at both ends and using a switch box I built. The box schematic is on the forum somewhere. I have made 2 cables, one with Canare star quad mic. cable and the other with twisted pair lab instrumentation cable that has very good specs, but not so good for dragging around behind a guitar. The only common parts are the Nuetric TRS connectors. I have wondered what would be the best cable in this situation since the acoustic preamp output would like to drive a cable optimized for low Z use and the magnetic pickup would be better off with a cable optimized for high Z use. Even so, both cables I made up sound great when they are making good connections (which is most of the time after the cleaning).

[Pietro]

My understanding is that mike cable isn't properly shielded. When I tried doing what you are doing it was a mess. There was tons of cable noise when I moved around (even with really high quality mike cable). That's why I got what amounted to a really long insert cable. They only share a ground (I believe) at the jack, and they are shielded like a guitar cable, NOT like a mike cable.

Are you getting a lot of cable-moving-noise at higher gain more than at low or medium? If so, your cable could be causing a problem.

As far as the low-Z/high-Z issue, I've always used a preamp for the acoustic, so I don't ever experience that.

[dplight]

My understanding is that mike cable isn't properly shielded. When I tried doing what you are doing it was a mess. There was tons of cable noise when I moved around (even with really high quality mike cable). That's why I got what amounted to a really long insert cable. They only share a ground (I believe) at the jack, and they are shielded like a guitar cable, NOT like a mike cable.

Are you getting a lot of cable-moving-noise at higher gain more than at low or medium? If so, your cable could be causing a problem.

As far as the low-Z/high-Z issue, I've always used a preamp for the acoustic, so I don't ever experience that.

I think you are talking about cables being microphonic. That's when you can tap on the cable and hear it being amplified. Dragging it around can cause lots of noise. I don't have any cable problems, it's only at the connector that I'm having some noise with. I was a bit concerned about microphonics happening to the electric guitar signal since mic. cable generally has higher capacitance per ft than guitar cable.

I've used many types coaxial cable and twisted pair cable and you can find a variety of shield types for each but nothing exclusive to either. I think the main difference is that coaxial cable, especially cable designed specifically for guitar, has a more insulation between the shield and center conductor and shield as well as other features to reduce handling noise (microphonics).

[Pietro]

Thanks, that's interesting!

[dplight]

Thanks, that's interesting!

I apologize if I come off as a "know it all". I don't intend to. I've been working as an electronics tech since the late 70's on everything from SONAR systems to TV and recording Studio's. I still ask a lot of questions though (like the one that spawned this thread) as it seems every answered question opens a door to lots more questions.

[Pietro]

Don't sweat it, you're cool!