'Scratching' Problem with Fretless Jazz

owensea777 · #1 06-16-2007, 05:29 PM

There is a problem with a MIM Fender Jazz that I want to buy. When i turn the smallest knob up even a little, the notes are all scratchy. I have tried the bass on different amps and with different cords, same effect. It seems to be a problem with the cord connection, because if I turn the cord a little, the scratchy noise happens. Any ideas as to what the problem is? Is it fixable (cheaply)?

Synplicity · #2 06-16-2007, 05:30 PM

sounds like an earthing problem.

ps. its cord (or cable) not chord (a group of notes) and this is in the wrong section

Also:

Welcome to Talkbass!

bassman312 · #3 06-16-2007, 05:37 PM

a D-minor chord usually helps me when i have this problem

owensea777 · #4 06-16-2007, 09:10 PM

bump I know someone can help me and not just make fun!

spiritbass · #5 06-16-2007, 09:18 PM

Buy a can of this and spray some into your scratchy potentiometer: http://store.caig.com/s.nl/it.A/id.1...2&category=293
It cleans as well as lubricates. If your control is still scratchy, you need a new one...

Ken

**Chef** · #6 06-16-2007, 10:24 PM

Sounds like an input jack problem. Oxidation over time can create a bad contact there.
Get some 400 grit sandpaper. Roll it into a pencil shape, and put it in the jack where your cord would go. Swizzle it around a bit and pull it out and look at it. If it's all covered with rustly looking munge, roll another, and repeat.
When done, clean the jack with a Q-tip doused with WD40, CAIG, or something. A bit of light work repated on your cables ends is good too.

If none of this works, time for a new input jack.

owensea777 · #7 06-17-2007, 07:00 PM

Thanks so much.

Just in case, about how much would a new input jack cost? (MIM Jazz)