Digitech Guitar FX Processor

[Fritz]

Let me start by saying that I am a complete newbie to electronics
repair. I know very little besides how to solder. I am not looking
for step-by-step instructions, but if anyone can give me some good
leads on sites/books to read, I would appreciate it.

I own a Digitech RP2000 multi-effects guitar processor. As of late,
the sound has been cutting out and distorting when I move the volume
knob. Today, there was no sound until I turned it up about halfway
and then it was loud and distorted, not at all like it should sound.

My best guess is that the problem has something to do with the volume
knob. I opened the unit up and noticed that there is a little bit of
hair/carpet on the volume knob inside the unit. Tomorrow, I am going
t o clean this with denatured alcohol, after that I have no idea what
to do.

I will post pics of the unit tomorrow. Please give me any
suggestions!

Thanks,
Fritz

 

[tempus fugit]

Try spraying the pot with some contact cleaner, if that doesn't help,
replace it.

 

[Fritz]

Okay, I used denatured alcohol to clean all the inputs/outputs and the
pot, and then sprayed them all with contact cleaner. The sound is
still muddy. It cuts in and out when I wiggle the pot, so I'm pretty
sure it's the problem.

My next question is, how do I know what kind of pot to get to replace
it? There's a link to a picture of it below, it's on the far right.

http://www.satansnipples.com/rp2000.jpg

Thanks!
Fritz

 

[jakdedert]

Okay, I used denatured alcohol to clean all the inputs/outputs and the
pot, and then sprayed them all with contact cleaner. The sound is
still muddy. It cuts in and out when I wiggle the pot, so I'm pretty
sure it's the problem.

My next question is, how do I know what kind of pot to get to replace
it? There's a link to a picture of it below, it's on the far right.

You're going to have to either measure the old pot with a meter, get a
schematic of the unit (maybe just a parts list) or contact Digitech for the
value (or a replacement). At the point which you know that, you'll have to
search catalogues--or your junk box--for a suitable replacement...then
replace it.

One thing you might check for is cold or damaged solder joints where the pot
connects to the circuit board. Pots on portable gear get damaged by being
struck against something...but that can also knock them loose without damage
to the actual component. From the picture, it looks like the only
mechanical support is the solder joints...bad design, very prone to shock
damage. If you have to replace it, you might look into a unit which mounts
with a nut on the front panel. Run wires back to the pcb...looks like
there's room.

Also, if the unit's not in a rack case, get one...or even build one. That
sort of gear's not meant to be carried around loose.

jak