My bad luck run with MXR

Simon Langley · #1 11-23-2009, 01:46 PM

Don't know if it is just me or if MXR is slipping but get this. Until now I haven't been much on effects but lately have been experimenting with different boxes and am putting together a Pedaltrain Mini.

Bought a Bass Auto Q that when received only worked intermittently. Also noticed that there was still a small amount of effect in the signal even when the pedal was turned off. Sent it back and got another one.

Pilfered my Phase 90 from my guitar pedal board and shortly after the rate knob started only working in the upper 1/3 of its sweep. Got another one to replace it.

I removed the M-80 that I was using for distortion in favor of an EHX Bass Big Muff and when I went to A/B the Big Muff against the M-80 I get a loud ground buzz from the M-80 output jack unless I hold the cable just right(yes I did try another cable). Well at least I have the Big Muff.

Wondering if something I am doing is causing this. I don't expect anything out of MXR since all of these pedals were purchased used. I know that this is unusual for MXR as I see many of their pedals are indestructible and live long and fruitful lives. All pedals are being powered via a One Spot. I really like the sound, look, design and price of the MXR stuff but the reliability issues I am experiencing right now are concerning. God forbid anything go wrong with my BOD as it has quickly become my favorite pedal of the bunch

Current pedalboard setup is: Bass---Korg Pitchblack---Bass Big Muff---Phase 90---Bass Auto Q---Bass Octave Deluxe---Amplifier

**jmattbassplaya** · #2 11-23-2009, 01:57 PM

Your problem probably has a lot more to do with your power supply than anything else.

Also, you may want to consider putting the bass octave deluxe right after the tuner.

stflbn · #3 11-23-2009, 02:08 PM

Sounds like you're tough on pedals...

.

oerk · #4 11-23-2009, 02:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jmattbassplaya

Your problem probably has a lot more to do with your power supply than anything else.

The Phase 90 and M-80 problems sound purely mechanical (broken pot / output jack).

Easily fixed if you know how to use a soldering iron.

Simon Langley · #5 11-23-2009, 02:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by stflbn

Sounds like you're tough on pedals...

.

*I've seen MXR pedals sustain quite a bit of abuse and come through just fine. Can't imaging that simply plugging in and unplugging them is being "tough" on them. Thanks for the input though

Simon Langley · #6 11-23-2009, 02:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jmattbassplaya

Your problem probably has a lot more to do with your power supply than anything else.

Also, you may want to consider putting the bass octave deluxe right after the tuner.

*Was wondering if it was a power supply problem myself but had the same trouble running them on a battery

*Tried the BOD at the front but like how it sounds at the back more. Only has trouble tracking if I run the phaser at the same time but don't usually use both of those together anyway.

Simon Langley · #7 11-24-2009, 07:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jmattbassplaya

Your problem probably has a lot more to do with your power supply than anything else.

Also, you may want to consider putting the bass octave deluxe right after the tuner.

*Took your advice and put the BOD back up front just after the tuner. Have to admit you are right. It does sound better in the front.