BBE Sonic Max problem, please help!

bass_LV · #1 10-26-2008, 04:36 AM

Hi!
I've been brousing the old threads in search for some advice to my problem, but was not able to find any.
I recently got a BBE Sonic Max. 482i. I really like the way it works and wouldn't want to take it our from the rack.
I have it connected to my amp's (Warwick Tubepath 10.1) effects loop (post gain, send is 0bd).
The problem is that the BBE Max keeps shutting down after playing for a while almost as if it the input was being overloaded or something. I have to turn it off and turn it back up again to make it work.

Has anyone encountered a similar problem?

bongomania · #2 10-26-2008, 10:09 AM

Unlike some amps, rack signal processors like the BBE almost universally do not shut down from being overloaded. Two likely problems:
1) a bad solder joint at or near the power switch.
2) a bad solder joint near a digital component of the circuit or near a part that needs a specific voltage bias to operate.

If you have soldering skills you might try re-flowing the solder at all joints in the vicinity of the power switch (taking care not to get electrocuted). Otherwise, time for service at BBE.

bass_LV · #3 10-26-2008, 11:26 AM

Thanks for replying. I must correct myself a bit though. The BBE does not shut down as in on/off, there is no signal but the power is on. The signal shows up after I shut the unit down and turn it back on.
I am sorry for misleading there. Soldering is not a thing I am good at, so I'd leave this to pros, but the advice is good, thanks.
One more question.
Could the amount of gain on the amp have something to do with the problem?

thanks.

=g=

bongomania · #4 10-26-2008, 11:35 AM

Not exactly- if the BBE was working properly then the amount of amp gain would not cause this problem. However it is possible for a strong input signal to "make" or "break" an intermittent connection at a bad solder joint.

So #2 above is still a factor.

Bassamatic · #5 10-26-2008, 11:50 AM

There is a component in sidethat is on the edge of going out, and when it get hot, it dies. Could be a voltage regulator in the power supply.

It needs service. Be sure to tell the tech exactly what is happening, how long it takes, etc. so he can duplicate the condition to find the bad part. Intermittent problems are always the hardest to find and repair.

bass_LV · #6 10-27-2008, 03:09 AM

Well, soldering you say. I really hoped this wouldn't be the case. BBE has no representatives around here, the nearest are in Finland, getting it repaired will be a big problem.
thanks for helping me out with an advice!

=g=